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 Newark, IL?

CDL training in Newark, 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 Newark?

Most CDL training programs in Newark 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 Newark, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Newark 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 Newark 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 83 verified training programs serving the Newark, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Newark, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Newark?We have identified 83 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Newark area (Pop: 311,549).

Quick Stats

83 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 311,549

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Newark, 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

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Newark, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Newark, 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 83 training programsserving the Newark area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

83 CDL Schools Near Newark

CDL Training Market in Newark, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools1
ELDT Verified1
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Newark have access to 1 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,500.

Many schools in Newark offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.

Many schools partner with major carriers to offer job placement assistance upon graduation.

*Data verified by CDL Schools USA via the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Last updated: December 2026.

Filter Results:

Sort by:

Top Picks in Newark

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Newark Community High School

Newark, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Leland School

Leland, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Rutland Grade School

Ottawa, IL

Call Now

Newark Community High School

Newark, IL

0.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Leland School

Leland, IL

12.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Rutland Grade School

Ottawa, IL

12.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Wallace Grade School

Ottawa, IL

17.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Paw Paw School

Paw Paw, IL

23 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Crest Hill Classroom

Crest Hill, IL

23.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL America Inc

Aurora, IL

24.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadhazardous_materials_theory

Illinois Central School Bus - Coal City

Coal City, IL

24.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

27012 - Northern Illinois Training Center

Crest Hill, IL

24.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Batavia

Batavia, IL

26.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Wilmington

Wilmington, IL

27.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mendota High School

Mendota, IL

27.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

alpha truck driving school inc.

West Chicago, IL

30.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Valley Community College

Oglesby, IL

30.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ruler CDL School Inc

West Chicago, IL

31 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Kishwaukee College

Malta, IL

31.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Dwight Township High School/Transportation

Dwight, IL

32.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom

Palos Hills, IL

40 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

Palos Hills, IL

41.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Westchester Public Schools

Westchester, IL

41.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 81 schools

CDL Training in Newark, Illinois

Newark, Illinois has 83 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 Newark, 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 Newark?

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 Newark

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 Newark: 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 Newark

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 - 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 - Joliet - Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Joliet	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	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
27012 - Northern Illinois Training Center FMCSA Verified	Crest Hill	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Advantage Driver Training LLC FMCSA Verified	Joliet	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
ALAMO TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL FMCSA Verified	CHICAGO	Class A	Weekend Classes	View Details
ALL IN CDL LLC FMCSA Verified	Des Plaines	Class AHazmatTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
All Pro Truck Driving School LLC FMCSA Verified	Chicago	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Newark

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

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

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DOT Physicals Near Newark

Required for your CDL medical card

NextCare Urgent Care - Downtown Aurora

8069 Central Ave, Aurora

(618) 386-3139

4.7

$71-$125

MedExpress Urgent Care - Aurora

2718 Business Park Dr, Aurora

(309) 216-4994

4.9

$108-$176

Walk-ins OK

NextCare Urgent Care - Midtown Aurora

8408 Hospital Dr, Aurora

(815) 317-7146

4.8

$67-$141

Walk-ins OK

View All 16 Clinics in Newark 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 Newark

228 Frelinghuysen Ave, Newark, NJ 07114

(609) 292-6500

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Newark MVC. Largest NJ city - full CDL services

Visit Newark CDL Secretary of State

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Newark

How long does CDL training take in Newark?

CDL training programs in Newark, 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 Newark without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Newark 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 Newark 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 Newark?

The CDL driver job outlook near Newark, 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 Newark?

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 Newark CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

Complete CDL Training Guide for Newark Area Residents

While CDL training options directly in Newark are limited, there are excellent opportunities throughout Illinois and nearby areas. Here's everything you need to know to start your trucking career.

CDL Jobs in Illinois

Average Salary

$50,000 - $68,000

Key Industries

logistics hub, manufacturing, agriculture, and finance

In-Demand Specializations

Intermodal from Chicago
Refrigerated
Grain hauling

Major Routes

I-55, I-57, I-80, I-90

Top Employers

Schneider, JB Hunt, CRST, local carriers

Funding Options

Illinois Workforce WIOA, DCEO training grants

Nearby Cities with More Options

Consider these nearby cities with more FMCSA-verified CDL schools:

All Illinois CDL Schools

Browse all cities

View All Illinois Schools

Boost Your Earnings

After getting your CDL, consider these additional certifications to increase your earning potential:

☢️

Hazmat Endorsement Training

Get your hazardous materials endorsement

+$5,000-$10,000/yr

🛡️

Commercial Defensive Driving

Reduce points and insurance premiums

Lower insurance

📦

Cargo Securement Certification

Essential training for flatbed hauling

+$3,000-$8,000/yr

🏥

HIPAA for Medical Couriers

Certification for medical transport drivers

+$4,000-$7,000/yr

Find Your Perfect School

Illinois CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate)
Hold a valid driver's license
Pass a DOT physical examination
Complete ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider
Pass CDL knowledge and skills tests

3-8

Weeks to complete

View Full Requirements

Can't Afford CDL School?

Many trucking companies offer FREE CDL training with employment commitment.

View Paid Training Programs

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Illinois, including training programs in Newark 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 Newark, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Newark, IL

How should students compare CDL schools in Newark, IL?

83 CDL Schools Near Newark

CDL Training Market in Newark, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Newark

Newark Community High School

Leland School

Rutland Grade School

Newark Community High School

Leland School

Rutland Grade School

Wallace Grade School

Paw Paw School

160 Driving Academy - Crest Hill Classroom

CDL America Inc

Illinois Central School Bus - Coal City

27012 - Northern Illinois Training Center

Illinois Central School Bus - Batavia

Illinois Central School Bus - Wilmington

Mendota High School

alpha truck driving school inc.

Illinois Valley Community College

Ruler CDL School Inc

Kishwaukee College

Dwight Township High School/Transportation

160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

Westchester Public Schools

CDL Training in Newark, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Newark?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Newark

Compare CDL Schools in Newark

Tuition Costs in Newark

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

DOT Physicals Near Newark

NextCare Urgent Care - Downtown Aurora

MedExpress Urgent Care - Aurora

NextCare Urgent Care - Midtown Aurora

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Newark

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Newark

Complete CDL Training Guide for Newark Area Residents

CDL Jobs in Illinois

Nearby Cities with More Options

Boost Your Earnings

Illinois CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

Can't Afford CDL School?

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)

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