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How to Get a CDL in Illinois

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Before you can drive a commercial vehicle in Illinois, you will first need to get your commercial learner’s permit, complete CDL training and pass your skills test to get your commercial driver’s license (CDL). We have created the following guide on how to get a CDL in the state of Illinois.

how to get a cdl in illinois

 Illinois Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

You must first get your CLP before you can get your CDL. The learner’s permit, which is valid for one year, will allow you to drive a truck accompanied by a CDL holder with the same license class. Once you get your CLP, you are required to wait at least 14 days before taking your CDL skills test.

 Illinois CLP Requirements

  • Meet CDL age requirements: 18 years old to drive a CMV within Illinois (intrastate); 21 years of age to drive cross country (interstate)
  • Possess a valid Illinois driver’s license
  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
  • Have proof of identity
  • Have Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Pass Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam
  • Clean driving record in the last 10 years

How to Get Your Illinois Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

  1. Schedule an appointment with the DMV
  2. Bring appropriate documents
    1. Valid Illinois driver’s license
    2. Proof of legal presence (examples: U.S. birth certificate; U.S. passport; permanent resident card)
    3. Medical certificate
  3. Pay the CLP fee: $50
  4. Pass the written tests – General (Core) Knowledge, Combination Knowledge (Class A), Air Brake Knowledge and Endorsements (if applicable)
  5. Once written tests are passed, you will be given a temporary CLP. A permanent CLP will be mailed to you within 15 business days after identification checks have been completed.

How to Prepare for the Illinois CLP Knowledge Tests

Illinois CDL Study Guide: what to study:

    1. CDL Class A, B & C –Core Knowledge –Section 2
      & 3
    2. CDL Class A –Combination –Section 6
    3. Option: Air Brakes – CDL Class A, B & C (only if
      vehicle is equipped with air brakes) — Section 5
    4. Optional Endorsements:
      1. Passenger (P) –Class B & C –Section 4
      2. Double/Triple Trailers (T) – Class A only – Section 7
      3. Tank Vehicles (N) –Class A, B & C –Section 8
      4. Hazardous Materials (H) –Class A, B & C –Section 9
    5. Combined Tank and Hazardous Materials (X) – Class
      A, B & C –Sections 8 & 9
      School Bus (S) –Class B & C –Section 10
      Charter Bus (C) –Class B & C –Section 11

Illinois CDL Requirements

  • Be 18 years of age to drive within Illinois; 21 years of age to drive across states
  • Possess a valid Illinois driver’s license
  • Have a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) (must possess CLP at least 14 days before taking your CDL skills test)
  • Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered trainer
  • Pass the road / skills test

Illinois CDL Application Process

  1. Book your skills test with the DMV or call 217-785-3013 (option #4)
  2. Bring the following
    1. Proper class commercial vehicle for testing
    2. Vehicle insurance ID card or certificate of insurance
    3. Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
  3. Pay the CDL fee: $60

How to Prepare for the Illinois CDL Road / Skills Test

Your CDL school will prepare you for the road or skills test. In addition, the following will be helpful:

Illinois CDL Study Guide (PDF) – what to study:

  1. Pre-Trip Inspection – Section 12
  2. Skill Maneuvers – Section 13
  3. Driving Road Test – Section 14

Illinois CDL Fees

  • Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) – Original / Renewal: $50
  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – Original / Renewal: $60
  • CDL Upgrade / Correction (add or remove an endorsement or restriction): $5

Illinois CDL Resources

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