If you live in Illinois and want to work as a commercial driver, you will need a CDL license. (Commercial Driver's License – Commercial Driver's License). To obtain it, you must acquire certain skills and meet certain requirements.
In this article We tell you what the requirements are for a CDL license in Illinois, what its price is, and what type of CDL licenses are available in the state. Additionally, we offer you access to the Illinois commercial driver's license manual in Spanish.
CDL License Requirements in Illinois
To avoid traffic accidents, the Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS) is especially strict with CDL license requirements.
Here's what you need to apply for a CDL in Illinois:
- 18 years of age to drive within the state and 21 years of age to drive outside the state.
- Possess another type of non-CDL driver's license that is valid for one year.
- Have been driving for at least two years.
- Do not show violations on the driving record.
- Have passed the CDL course at an authorized school.
- Have the CLP (Commercial Learner Permit), granted after completing the course and passing the ILSOS exam.
- Demonstrate the hours of practice with the CLP (accompanied by an instructor).
- Pass the theoretical exam for the CDL license.
- Pass the practical exam for the CDL license.
- Have the certificate of the medical examination for CDL.
- Affidavit of not having a CDL license from another state.
- Proof of legal residency in Illinois.
- Proof of US nationality or permanent residence (Green Card).
- Perfect command of the English language.
- SSN (Social Security Number).
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Illinois?
The cost of a CDL license in Illinois is $60, but you will be charged $50 if you are 69 or older. Additionally, the CLP costs $50 and the price for adding an endorsement, removing a restriction or correcting any data is $5.
What is most expensive is the course, whose prices range between $3,500 and $5,000, depending on the type of CDL license you are going to obtain and the school you choose. Besides, The cost of the medical exam is between $75 and $120depending on where you do it.
CDL Exam in Illinois
At least three evaluations of different types must be passed. However, if specialized licenses are to be obtained, additional exams must be taken.
Theoric exam
The general exam consists of 50 questions on different topics related to laws, regulations and situations. You must answer at least 40 of them correctly, which is equivalent to 80% performance.
Practical test
If you pass the theoretical exam you will go to the second phase, what is the practical test. In this evaluation, different aspects related to the inspection and control of the vehicle as well as road driving are taken into account.
Medical exam
Additionally, you will have to pass the CDL medical exam.. This consists of a physical examination, a vision checkup and a urinalysis, performed in a certified doctor's office.
Commercial Driver License Manual in Illinois
The commercial driver's license manual in Spanish consists of 13 sections and 158 pages. They cover all the topics of the Illinois CDL driver's license test questions.
On page 1-2 of the introduction, the sections you must study are indicated, according to the type of license and the endorsement you are going to request.
By clicking on the following button you will have access to the Illinois CDL manual.
Illinois CDL License Manual
Who needs a CDL license in Illinois?
All drivers who drive a vehicle with any of the following characteristics need a CDL license:
- Weight equal to or greater than 26,001 pounds.
- Transportation of more than 15 passengers.
- Transfer of hazardous materials.
- They have a tanker truck or trailer.
There are some exceptions, such as tractors or trucks used to transport products to markets, in the case of farmers.
CDL License Types in Illinois
There are three types of driver's licenses in Illinois classified as basic CDLs. The definition of each of them is based on the type of vehicle and the type of load it allows to transport.
Endorsements are also important, which apply to drive specific vehicles.. The most important are: trailers, tankers, passenger transportation, school transport and hazardous materials.
Below are the CDL licenses you can obtain in Illinois. You should take this classification into account if you are going to opt for a commercial license.
Class A CDL License
With this license you can drive wide, long or wide load vehicles. By applying the appropriate endorsements for each case, you will be able to drive tractors, trailers, trailers and tank trucks.
Class B CDL License
The CDL class B is the license to drive large trucks and buses.. If you are thinking about how to get a trailer license, this is the type that suits your objective.
CDL class C license
With this license you can drive vehicles for he passenger transfer with a capacity greater than 15 people. With the corresponding endorsement, it can also be used to transport hazardous materials.
Can I get a CDL with Daca in Illinois?
Yes, immigrants covered by Dhaka can obtain a CDL license. Children who arrived in the United States before the age of 16 and their parents requested protection have work permits. For this reason they can access a non-domiciled CDL.
Can you get a CDL in Illinois without going to school?
It's not possible. It is necessary to take a course to obtain a CDL license for the first time. This is due to a provision of the Illinois Secretary of State that went into effect in 2022. Training is done in authorized schools.
Can I renew my CDL online in Illinois?
No, Illinois is one of the states that does not allow you to renew your CDL online.. Every four years, before your license expires, you must make an appointment online or by phone and attend in person to submit the necessary paperwork and exams.