How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

How much does CDL training cost in Joliet, IL?

CDL training in Joliet, IL typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000, with an average of $5,000. Costs vary based on program type (private school vs. community college), training length, and included endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Joliet?

Most CDL training programs in Joliet take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Community college programs may take 8-16 weeks. Part-time and weekend programs are available for working adults and may extend the timeline. After training, you must pass the CDL skills test at your state DMV.

Are there weekend CDL classes in Joliet, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Joliet area offer weekend and evening classes for students who cannot attend full-time programs. These flexible schedules allow working adults to earn their CDL without quitting their current job.

How do I verify a CDL school in Joliet is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school's ELDT certification status there. Be wary of schools that cannot provide their TPR registration number or promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks.

CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 120 verified training programs serving the Joliet, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Joliet, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Joliet?We have identified 120 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Joliet area (Pop: 150,362).

Quick Stats

120 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 150,362

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Joliet, IL

CDL License Types

Class A, Class B, Class C

Average Training Cost

$3,000 – $8,000

Program Length

3-8 weeks

Weekend / Evening Options

Available at select schools

FMCSA Registration Required

Yes

Verified Schools

120

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Joliet, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Joliet, IL should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 120 training programsserving the Joliet area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

120 CDL Schools Near Joliet

Filter Results:

Sort by:

Top Picks in Joliet

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Illinois Central School Bus - Wilmington

Wilmington, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

Palos Hills, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Hawkins inc. University Park IL

University Park, IL

Call Now

27012 - Northern Illinois Training Center

Crest Hill, IL

2.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Crest Hill Classroom

Crest Hill, IL

4.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Wilmington

Wilmington, IL

15.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom

Palos Hills, IL

17.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

Palos Hills, IL

18.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Hawkins inc. University Park IL

University Park, IL

18.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL America Inc

Aurora, IL

19.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadhazardous_materials_theory

Illinois School Bus

Crestwood, IL

19.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Alpha School Bus

Crestwood, IL

19.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Experior Truck Driving School

Alsip, IL

19.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Professional Truck Driving School Yard

Bridgeview, IL

19.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Road Runner Driving School

Park Forest, IL

21 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Coal City

Coal City, IL

21.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Chicago South

Blue Island, IL

21.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Chicago Heights Classroom

Chicago Heights, IL

22.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Reavis High School Dist. #220

Burbank, IL

22.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

School Transportation

Dixmoor, IL

22.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Harvey, IL

22.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Prairie State Classroom and Yard

Chicago Heights, IL

23.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

DLM SCHOOL BUS LINE INC

Chicago Heights, IL

23.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 115 schools

CDL Training in Joliet, Illinois

Joliet, Illinois has 120 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. Chicago is the largest intermodal hub in North America, with 25% of all US rail freight passing through. Average CDL driver salary in Illinois is about $57,600 per year, with experienced drivers reaching $80,000. The intermodal & distribution sector creates high demand for qualified CDL holders near Joliet, and major freight corridors such as I-80/I-55/I-94 corridors connect graduates to local, regional, and long-haul work. Every school listed on this page is tied to FMCSA Training Provider Registry review, which matters because ELDT completion must come from a registered provider before a first-time CDL applicant can take the skills test.

Why Get CDL Training Near Joliet?

Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
Financial Aid: Schools in Illinois often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

CDL training in Illinois typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

View all CDL schools in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Joliet

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Illinois

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Illinois

Top employers hiring near Joliet: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Joliet

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Chicago Heights	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Gary	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Bensenville - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Chicago	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Chicago - South Shore - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Chicago	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Chicago Heights Classroom FMCSA Verified	Chicago Heights	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Chicago South Shore Yard FMCSA Verified	Harvey	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Crest Hill Classroom FMCSA Verified	Crest Hill	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Des Plaines - Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Des Plaines	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Joliet - Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Joliet	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Niles Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Niles	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Oswego - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Montgomery	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Oswego - Range and Road FMCSA Verified	Montgomery	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom FMCSA Verified	Palos Hills	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Prairie State Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Chicago Heights	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - South Holland - Yard FMCSA Verified	Harvey	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Joliet

Avg. Private School

$5,500

Avg. Public School

$4,000

Price Range

$3,500 - $7,000

Midwest hub. 160 Driving Academy dominates here with mid-range pricing.

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

Get Matched FREE

DOT Physicals Near Joliet

Required for your CDL medical card

WorkMed Occupational Health - Central Naperville

1408 Market St, Naperville

(217) 243-7229

4.9

$80-$153

Walk-ins OK

NextCare Urgent Care - Downtown Aurora

8069 Central Ave, Aurora

(618) 386-3139

4.7

$71-$125

Express Urgent Care - South Naperville

5473 Clinic Way, Naperville

(708) 393-9939

4.9

$67-$136

Walk-ins OK

View All 39 Clinics in Joliet All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam typically costs $55-$150 and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Joliet

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local Secretary of State office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find Secretary of State Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Joliet

How long does CDL training take in Joliet?

CDL training programs in Joliet, IL typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.

How much does CDL school cost in Illinois?

CDL training costs in Illinois range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.

Can I get a CDL in Joliet without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Joliet area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.

How do I know if a CDL school in Joliet is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.

Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?

Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.

Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Illinois?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Illinois: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.

What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Joliet?

The CDL driver job outlook near Joliet, IL is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Illinois experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.

Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Joliet?

The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Joliet CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Illinois, including training programs in Joliet and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

📚

Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Illinois

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Joliet, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Joliet, IL

How should students compare CDL schools in Joliet, IL?

120 CDL Schools Near Joliet

Top Picks in Joliet

Illinois Central School Bus - Wilmington

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

Hawkins inc. University Park IL

27012 - Northern Illinois Training Center

160 Driving Academy - Crest Hill Classroom

Illinois Central School Bus - Wilmington

160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

Hawkins inc. University Park IL

CDL America Inc

Illinois School Bus

Alpha School Bus

Experior Truck Driving School

Professional Truck Driving School Yard

Road Runner Driving School

Illinois Central School Bus - Coal City

Illinois Central School Bus - Chicago South

160 Driving Academy - Chicago Heights Classroom

Reavis High School Dist. #220

School Transportation

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

160 Driving Academy - Prairie State Classroom and Yard

DLM SCHOOL BUS LINE INC

CDL Training in Joliet, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Joliet?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Joliet

Compare CDL Schools in Joliet

Tuition Costs in Joliet

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

DOT Physicals Near Joliet

WorkMed Occupational Health - Central Naperville

NextCare Urgent Care - Downtown Aurora

Express Urgent Care - South Naperville

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Joliet

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Joliet

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

Related Resources