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 Peoria, IL?

CDL training in Peoria, 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 Peoria?

Most CDL training programs in Peoria 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 Peoria, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Peoria 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 Peoria 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 200 verified training programs serving the Peoria, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Peoria, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Peoria?We have identified 200 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Peoria area (Pop: 113,150).

Quick Stats

200 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 113,150

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Peoria, 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

200

200 CDL Schools Near Peoria

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Top Picks in Peoria

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Dayton Freight Lines inc - PEO

East Peoria, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Regional Office of Education #53

East Peoria, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Morton, IL

8.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Washington Central District 51

Washington, IL

8.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Morton Buildings, Inc.

Morton, IL

8.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 169 schools

CDL Training in Peoria, Illinois

<div class="space-y-4"> Peoria, IL offers 200 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 Peoria 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 Peoria?

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 Peoria

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 Peoria: 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 Peoria

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
12646 Normal FMCSA Verified	Normal	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
20297 Galesburg FMCSA Verified	Galesburg	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
20722 Bartonville FMCSA Verified	Bartonville	Class A	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Allen Transportation Services FMCSA Verified	Washington	Class AClass BTanker	VA Approved	View Details
Altorfer Inc FMCSA Verified	Clinton	Class AClass BHazmat	Weekend Classes	View Details
Armington, IL- NPGA FMCSA Verified	Armington	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Atlanta, IL - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Atlanta	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
B & J Lehman Farms FMCSA Verified	Lewistown	Class AHazmatTanker	Evening Classes	View Details
Bauman Ag FMCSA Verified	Eureka	Class AClass B	Weekend Classes	View Details
Bay View Baptist Church FMCSA Verified	Washington	Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
BCS, LLC FMCSA Verified	McLean	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Beal landscaping FMCSA Verified	Mapleton	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details
Beason, IL - NPGA FMCSA Verified	Beason	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Blunier Builders FMCSA Verified	Eureka	Class AHazmatTanker		View Details
Brad Carroll Farms INC FMCSA Verified	Flanagan	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Peoria

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

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DOT Physicals Near Peoria

Required for your CDL medical card

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - North Peoria

4737 Professional Dr, Peoria

(773) 383-6225

$74-$131

Walk-ins OK

DOT Exams Now - Midtown Peoria

6778 Health Plaza, Peoria

(708) 671-3047

4.9

$109-$173

FastMed Urgent Care - South Peoria

1502 Professional Dr, Peoria

(815) 193-1138

4.6

$123-$198

View All 8 Clinics in Peoria All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam costs ${55-150} and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Peoria

3300 N Main St, East Peoria, IL 61611

(309) 699-6181

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Peoria Area Secretary of State. Central IL - CDL testing

Visit Peoria CDL Secretary of State

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Peoria

How long does CDL training take in Peoria?

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

Yes, several CDL schools in the Peoria 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 Peoria 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 Peoria?

The CDL driver job outlook near Peoria, 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 Peoria?

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 Peoria 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 Peoria 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 Peoria, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Peoria, IL

200 CDL Schools Near Peoria

Top Picks in Peoria

Dayton Freight Lines inc - PEO

Regional Office of Education #53

East Peoria community high school

Dayton Freight Lines inc - PEO

Village of Peoria Heights

Creve Coeur School District # 76

epd86

Peoria Heights Community Unit School District 325

Illinois Central College

Central Transport - 616

Bay View Baptist Church

LS Building Products

PWNA-Peoria

Hinckley Springs

North Pekin Marquette Heights School District 102

Allen Transportation Services

Illinois Central School Bus, LLC

20722 Bartonville

Morton Community Unit School District 709

JR's Landscape Services

HC Transport Morton

Washington Central District 51

Morton Buildings, Inc.

CDL Training in Peoria, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Peoria?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Peoria

Compare CDL Schools in Peoria

Tuition Costs in Peoria

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

DOT Physicals Near Peoria

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - North Peoria

DOT Exams Now - Midtown Peoria

FastMed Urgent Care - South Peoria

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Peoria

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Peoria

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)

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