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.

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.

How much does CDL training cost in Fairfield, IL?

CDL training in Fairfield, 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 Fairfield?

Most CDL training programs in Fairfield 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 Fairfield, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Fairfield 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 Fairfield 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 125 verified training programs serving the Fairfield, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Fairfield, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Fairfield?We have identified 125 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Fairfield area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

125 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 20,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Fairfield, 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

125

125 CDL Schools Near Fairfield

CDL Training Market in Fairfield, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools4
ELDT Verified4
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Fairfield have access to 4 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 Fairfield 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.

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Top Picks in Fairfield

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fairfield Community High School Dist #225

Fairfield, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Fairfield, IL- NPGA

Fairfield, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

McLeansboro, IL

21.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

White County Highway Department

Carmi, IL

22.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Rob Wilson Trucking LLC

Carmi, IL

22.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 108 schools

CDL Training in Fairfield, Illinois

<div class="space-y-4"> Fairfield, IL offers 125 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you're seeking a Class A CDL for tractor-trailer operation or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, the programs below are all registered in the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR)—the only database that counts for ELDT certification. CDL drivers in IL earn competitive salaries with strong job security. The national driver shortage continues to push starting pay higher, with many carriers offering signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for new CDL holders. Training typically takes 4-8 weeks for full-time students, with weekend and evening options available at select Fairfield schools. Compare tuition costs, program length, and specializations below. Look for schools that offer hazmat endorsement training, tanker certification, and job placement assistance—these add immediate earning potential to your CDL. Read our guide on <a href="/blog/is-cdl-school-worth-it-2026" class="text-blue-600 hover:underline">whether CDL school is worth it in 2026</a> for a detailed cost-benefit analysis. </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Fairfield?

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 Fairfield

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 Fairfield: 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 Fairfield

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Kaskaskia Classroom FMCSA Verified	Centralia	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Kaskaskia Yard FMCSA Verified	Centralia	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
4K Farms LLC FMCSA Verified	Claremont	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
6102 - Mt. Vernon - IL - National Express FMCSA Verified	Mt Vernon	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Academic Transport FMCSA Verified	Poseyville	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Ahlf acres inc FMCSA Verified	Centralia	Class A	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Allendale CCSD 17 FMCSA Verified	Allendale	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Altamont, IL - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Altamont	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
Anthony Hemrich Farms FMCSA Verified	Noble	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Bestway Driving Academy 1 FMCSA Verified	Vincennes	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Bible Pork Inc. FMCSA Verified	Louisville	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Bluford USD 318 FMCSA Verified	Bluford	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Boss Services Inc FMCSA Verified	Olney	Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Browns, IL- NPGA FMCSA Verified	Browns	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Carlyle, IL- NPGA FMCSA Verified	Carlyle	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Fairfield

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.

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CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Fairfield

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 Fairfield

How long does CDL training take in Fairfield?

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

Yes, several CDL schools in the Fairfield 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 Fairfield 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 Fairfield?

The CDL driver job outlook near Fairfield, 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 Fairfield?

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 Fairfield 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 Fairfield and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

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Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Illinois

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Fairfield, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Fairfield, IL

125 CDL Schools Near Fairfield

CDL Training Market in Fairfield, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Fairfield

Fairfield Community High School Dist #225

Fairfield, IL- NPGA

Fairfield Public School District #112

Fairfield Community High School Dist #225

Fairfield, IL- NPGA

Fairfield Public School District #112

Jasper Comm Cons School

Geff Grade School

North Wayne Community Unit School District 200

JB Express Transportation LLC

Wayne City Community Unit School District 100

Geolog Well Services, Inc.

Edwards County Schools

Browns, IL- NPGA

Flora, IL - NPGA

Flora Community School District #35

Bluford USD 318

Grayville, IL - NPGA

Reliance Well Services, LLC (ILLINOIS)

Lynch Farms Inc

Hamilton County CUSD Unit 10

White County Highway Department

Rob Wilson Trucking LLC

CDL Training in Fairfield, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Fairfield?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Fairfield

Compare CDL Schools in Fairfield

Tuition Costs in Fairfield

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Fairfield

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Fairfield

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