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 Forrest, IL?

CDL training in Forrest, 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 Forrest?

Most CDL training programs in Forrest 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 Forrest, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Forrest 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 Forrest 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 182 verified training programs serving the Forrest, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Forrest, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Forrest?We have identified 182 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Forrest area (Pop: 30,000).

Quick Stats

182 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 30,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Forrest, 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

182

182 CDL Schools Near Forrest

CDL Training Market in Forrest, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools6
ELDT Verified6
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Forrest have access to 6 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 Forrest 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 Forrest

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Kens Oil Service

Forrest, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Zimmerman Farms

Forrest, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Cullom, IL

11.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Trent Slagel

Pontiac, IL

12.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Anchor, IL - NPGA

Anchor, IL

13.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 162 schools

CDL Training in Forrest, Illinois

<div class="space-y-4"> Forrest, IL offers 182 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 Forrest 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 Forrest?

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 Forrest

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 Forrest: 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 Forrest

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
11435 Kankakee FMCSA Verified	Kankakee	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
12646 Normal FMCSA Verified	Normal	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
12694 Rantoul FMCSA Verified	Rantoul	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
12720 Paxton FMCSA Verified	Paxton	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
20339 Urbana FMCSA Verified	Urbana	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
55822 Kankakee FMCSA Verified	Bourbonnais	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
7076 - Bourbonnais, IL FMCSA Verified	Bourbonnais	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Altorfer Inc FMCSA Verified	Clinton	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend Classes	View Details
Anchor, IL - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Anchor	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Andris Family Farm, LLC FMCSA Verified	Milford	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Aqua-IL FMCSA Verified	Kankakee	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Armstrong-Ellis Grade School FMCSA Verified	Armstrong	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Arrowsmith, IL - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Arrowsmith	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bahler Trucking inc FMCSA Verified	Fairbury	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Bauman Ag FMCSA Verified	Eureka	Class AClass B	Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Forrest

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 Forrest

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 Forrest

How long does CDL training take in Forrest?

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

Yes, several CDL schools in the Forrest 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 Forrest 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 Forrest?

The CDL driver job outlook near Forrest, 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 Forrest?

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 Forrest 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 Forrest 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 Forrest, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Forrest, IL

182 CDL Schools Near Forrest

CDL Training Market in Forrest, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Forrest

Kens Oil Service

Zimmerman Farms

Warren Hartman Trucking, Inc

Kens Oil Service

Zimmerman Farms

Warren Hartman Trucking, Inc

Forrest, IL - NPGA

Zimmerman Feed & Grain, Inc

Bounds Grain Farm

Bahler Trucking inc

Kafer Tiling & Excavating Inc

Prairie Central CUSD #8

Zehr Custom Spraying

Sealtite Insulation

Kilgus Farmstead

Gary Steidinger Farm

Prairie Central Trucking Inc.

BCS, LLC

Tri-Point Schools

Read Bros Trucking LLC

Sun Ag Inc

Trent Slagel

Anchor, IL - NPGA

CDL Training in Forrest, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Forrest?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Forrest

Compare CDL Schools in Forrest

Tuition Costs in Forrest

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

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Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Forrest

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