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 Salem, IL?

CDL training in Salem, 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 Salem?

Most CDL training programs in Salem 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 Salem, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Salem 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 Salem 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 138 verified training programs serving the Salem, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Salem, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Salem?We have identified 138 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Salem area (Pop: 15,000).

Quick Stats

138 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 15,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Salem, 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

138

138 CDL Schools Near Salem

CDL Training Market in Salem, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools3
ELDT Verified3
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Salem have access to 3 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 Salem 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.

Filter Results:

Sort by:

Top Picks in Salem

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Salem Community High School District #600

Salem, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Dayton Freight Lines inc - SAL

Salem, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Woodlawn, IL

22.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

6102 - Mt. Vernon - IL - National Express

Mt Vernon, IL

23.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Carlyle CUSD #1 Transportation Dept.

Carlyle, IL

23.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 114 schools

CDL Training in Salem, Illinois

<div class="space-y-4"> Salem, IL offers 138 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 Salem 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 Salem?

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 Salem

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 Salem: 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 Salem

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

Filter:

⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
08 Heartland Coca Cola FMCSA Verified	Du Quoin	Class AClass BTanker	VA Approved	View Details
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
20336 Highland FMCSA Verified	Highland	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
6102 - Mt. Vernon - IL - National Express FMCSA Verified	Mt Vernon	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
6502 - DuQuoin - IL - National Express FMCSA Verified	Du Quoin	Class A	VA Approved	View Details
Ahlf acres inc FMCSA Verified	Centralia	Class A	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Akra Builders FMCSA Verified	Teutopolis	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Alhambra Township FMCSA Verified	Alhambra	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Alhambra, IL- NPGA FMCSA Verified	Alhambra	Class AClass B	VA Approved	View Details
Altamont CUSD #10 FMCSA Verified	Altamont	Class AHazmat		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
Arentsen Farm Sales and Service Inc FMCSA Verified	Albers	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
BaLo Services LLC FMCSA Verified	Lebanon	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.	View Details

Tuition Costs in Salem

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

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

Get Matched FREE

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Salem

1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, OR 97301

(503) 945-5000

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Salem DMV. State capital - CDL testing

Visit Salem CDL Secretary of State

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Salem

How long does CDL training take in Salem?

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

Yes, several CDL schools in the Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem?

The CDL driver job outlook near Salem, 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 Salem?

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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Salem, IL

138 CDL Schools Near Salem

CDL Training Market in Salem, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Salem

Salem Community High School District #600

Dayton Freight Lines inc - SAL

Selmaville CCSD 10

Salem Community High School District #600

Dayton Freight Lines inc - SAL

Selmaville CCSD 10

Sandoval, IL- NPGA

Sandoval school district 501

160 Driving Academy - Kaskaskia Classroom

South Central School District #401

Centralia High School Transportation Department

Ahlf acres inc

Landreth Bus Company

Centralia City Schools District #135

Hawkins inc. Centralia IL

160 Driving Academy - Kaskaskia Yard

Carlyle, IL- NPGA

Knapp Oil Co

St Peter, IL - NPGA

Dickinson Trucking

Woodlawn, IL - NPGA

6102 - Mt. Vernon - IL - National Express

Carlyle CUSD #1 Transportation Dept.

CDL Training in Salem, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Salem?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Salem

Compare CDL Schools in Salem

Tuition Costs in Salem

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Salem

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Salem

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)

Related Resources