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 Rockford, IL?

CDL training in Rockford, 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 Rockford?

Most CDL training programs in Rockford 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 Rockford, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Rockford 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 Rockford 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 22 verified training programs serving the Rockford, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Rockford, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Rockford?We have identified 22 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Rockford area (Pop: 148,655).

Quick Stats

22 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 148,655

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Rockford, 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 Rockford, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Rockford, 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 22 training programsserving the Rockford area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

22 CDL Schools Near Rockford

Filter Results:

Sort by:

Top Picks in Rockford

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Rock Valley College

Belvidere, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Blackhawk Technical College

Janesville, WI

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Sharon Community School

Sharon, WI

Call Now

160 Driving Academy - Rockford Yard

Loves Park, IL

2.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Rock Valley College

Belvidere, IL

12.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Blackhawk Technical College

Janesville, WI

22.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Sharon Community School

Sharon, WI

24.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Kishwaukee College

Malta, IL

25.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Freeport Classroom and Yard

Freeport, IL

29.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Lakeside DieselTech Academy

Janesville, WI

31.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Dixon

Dixon, IL

35.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Paw Paw School

Paw Paw, IL

40.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Sauk Valley Community College

Dixon, IL

40.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Wolf Driving School

East Dundee, IL

44.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Johnsburg High School Diesel Equipment Technology

Johnsburg, IL

44.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Leland School

Leland, IL

47.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Grant Community High School

Fox Lake, IL

48.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mendota High School

Mendota, IL

49.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Rockford - Classroom

Rockford, IL

0.2 miles away

Eagle Training Services

Crystal Lake, IL

41.1 miles away

Elgin Community College

Elgin, IL

43.2 miles away

New Glarus School District

New Glarus, WI

46 miles away

SAFE TRUCK PARKING LOCATION

Elgin, IL

47.2 miles away

Showing 20 of 22 schools

CDL Training in Rockford, Illinois

Rockford, Illinois has 22 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 Rockford, 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 Rockford?

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 Rockford

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 Rockford: 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 Rockford

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Freeport Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Freeport	Class ATanker		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Rockford - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Rockford	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Rockford Yard FMCSA Verified	Loves Park	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Blackhawk Technical College FMCSA Verified	Janesville	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Eagle Training Services FMCSA Verified	Crystal Lake	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Elgin Community College FMCSA Verified	Elgin	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Grant Community High School FMCSA Verified	Fox Lake	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
Illinois Central School Bus - Dixon FMCSA Verified	Dixon	Class AClass BHazmat	VA Approved	View Details
Johnsburg High School Diesel Equipment Technology FMCSA Verified	Johnsburg	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Kishwaukee College FMCSA Verified	Malta	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Lakeside DieselTech Academy FMCSA Verified	Janesville	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Leland School FMCSA Verified	Leland	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Mendota High School FMCSA Verified	Mendota	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
New Glarus School District FMCSA Verified	New Glarus	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
Oregon School District FMCSA Verified	Oregon	Class AHazmat	Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Rockford

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 Rockford

Required for your CDL medical card

MedPro Occupational Health - South Rockford

7691 Second St, Rockford

(847) 601-9262

4.6

$81-$164

CVS MinuteClinic - East Rockford

4086 Industrial Pkwy, Rockford

(773) 409-8605

4.8

$93-$148

Walk-ins OK

GoHealth Urgent Care - Rockford

3213 Park Ave, Rockford

(630) 899-7788

4.7

$114-$154

Walk-ins OK

View All 8 Clinics in Rockford 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 Rockford

4720 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108

(815) 987-7200

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Rockford Secretary of State. Northern IL - CDL testing

Visit Rockford CDL Secretary of State

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Rockford

How long does CDL training take in Rockford?

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

Yes, several CDL schools in the Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford?

The CDL driver job outlook near Rockford, 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 Rockford?

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 Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Rockford, IL

How should students compare CDL schools in Rockford, IL?

22 CDL Schools Near Rockford

Top Picks in Rockford

Rock Valley College

Blackhawk Technical College

Sharon Community School

160 Driving Academy - Rockford Yard

Rock Valley College

Blackhawk Technical College

Sharon Community School

Kishwaukee College

160 Driving Academy - Freeport Classroom and Yard

Lakeside DieselTech Academy

Illinois Central School Bus - Dixon

Paw Paw School

Sauk Valley Community College

Wolf Driving School

Johnsburg High School Diesel Equipment Technology

Leland School

Grant Community High School

Mendota High School

160 Driving Academy - Rockford - Classroom

Eagle Training Services

Elgin Community College

New Glarus School District

SAFE TRUCK PARKING LOCATION

CDL Training in Rockford, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Rockford?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Rockford

Compare CDL Schools in Rockford

Tuition Costs in Rockford

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

DOT Physicals Near Rockford

MedPro Occupational Health - South Rockford

CVS MinuteClinic - East Rockford

GoHealth Urgent Care - Rockford

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Rockford

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Rockford

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