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 Mattoon, IL?

CDL training in Mattoon, 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 Mattoon?

Most CDL training programs in Mattoon 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 Mattoon, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Mattoon 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 Mattoon 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 131 verified training programs serving the Mattoon, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Mattoon, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Mattoon?We have identified 131 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Mattoon area (Pop: 20,000).

Quick Stats

131 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 20,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Mattoon, 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

131

131 CDL Schools Near Mattoon

CDL Training Market in Mattoon, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

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

Aspiring truck drivers in Mattoon 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 Mattoon 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 Mattoon

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

PWNA-Mattoon

Mattoon, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Mattoon Community Unit Schools #2

Mattoon, IL

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Sullivan, IL

16.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Heritage Family Farms

Arthur, IL

16.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Stewardson, IL - NPGA

Stewardson, IL

16.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 103 schools

CDL Training in Mattoon, Illinois

<div class="space-y-4"> Mattoon, IL offers 131 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 Mattoon 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 Mattoon?

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 Mattoon

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 Mattoon: 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 Mattoon

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
20339 Urbana FMCSA Verified	Urbana	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
20340 Tolono FMCSA Verified	Tolono	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Akra Builders FMCSA Verified	Teutopolis	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Altamont CUSD #10 FMCSA Verified	Altamont	Class AHazmat		View Details
Altamont, IL - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Altamont	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
Argenta-Oreana CUSD #1 FMCSA Verified	Argenta	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Assumption, IL - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Assumption	Class AClass BTanker	VA Approved	View Details
Beecher City CUSD #20 FMCSA Verified	Beecher City	Class AClass B	Weekend Classes	View Details
Bible Pork Inc. FMCSA Verified	Louisville	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Bolin Transport LLC FMCSA Verified	Casey	Class AClass BHazmat	VA Approved	View Details
Brownstown CUSD 201 FMCSA Verified	Brownstown	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corp. FMCSA Verified	Shelbyville	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
Casey-Westfield CUSD C4 FMCSA Verified	Casey	Class A	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
CEFS Head Start 0-5 Program FMCSA Verified	Louisville	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Central A & M CUD #21 FMCSA Verified	Assumption	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Mattoon

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 Mattoon

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 Mattoon

How long does CDL training take in Mattoon?

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

Yes, several CDL schools in the Mattoon 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 Mattoon 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 Mattoon?

The CDL driver job outlook near Mattoon, 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 Mattoon?

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 Mattoon 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 Mattoon 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 Mattoon, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Mattoon, IL

131 CDL Schools Near Mattoon

CDL Training Market in Mattoon, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Mattoon

PWNA-Mattoon

Mattoon Community Unit Schools #2

Chris Overton Excavating

PWNA-Mattoon

Mattoon Community Unit Schools #2

Chris Overton Excavating

Lake Land College

Gays, IL- NPGA

Humboldt, IL- NPGA

Charleston, IL- NPGA

Illinois Central School Bus - Charleston

Neoga School District#3

Windsor CUSD #1

Dial A Ride

Simply Amish

Ku-dew Farms

Dayton Freight Lines inc - DAN

Chesterville Trucking, LLC

Sullivan CUSD # 300

Sullivan, IL - NPGA

Marvin Keller Trucking Inc

Heritage Family Farms

Stewardson, IL - NPGA

CDL Training in Mattoon, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Mattoon?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Mattoon

Compare CDL Schools in Mattoon

Tuition Costs in Mattoon

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

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CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Mattoon

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