Things You'll Need:
- Age 18 (21 if crossing state lines due to federal rules
- Illinois Class D license (regular automobile)
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Step 1
Get a job at a transportation company willing to train or enroll in a commercial truck driving or bus driving school. Although it is theoretically possible to get an Illinois CDL without a school or a job, you would need to have the right type of commercial truck for the on-the-road exam (the Illinois government will not provide you a truck or bus for the exam) as well as some way to acquire the skills necessary to pass the exams.
Keep in mind that out of state applicants with a CDL need to take all exams as well as of May 1, 2008. -
Step 2
Study the CDL study guide in preparation for the written exam. A link to the study guide is in the Resources section below.
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Step 3
Begin the process of applying for a CDL License by visiting the nearest Illinois Secretary of State Driver Facility. First you will need to pass a vision exam. Next, you need to pass the CDL computerized written knowledge exam. This is a multiple choice test in Illinois that is done on the computer. Special exam sections are added if there are additional endorsement needed such as air breaks, passenger carriage, school bus, etc.
Be aware that Illinois has a three time failure rule, which requires a waiting period after every three failures. The waiting period ranges from 30 days for the first waiting period to 1 year for the third waiting period. The waiting period can significantly delay your career as a commercial driver, so try to learn the material and pass the computerized written test within the first three tries.
Once the written exam has been passed, a CDL instruction permit will be issued that is valid for one year. -
Step 4
Continue learning at your transportation employer or truck/bus driving school.
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Step 5
After training with your employer or school, take the on-the-road driving exam. This exam consists of three sections.
1) Pre trip inspection
2) Basic skills exam (drive around cones, drive backwards, etc.)
3) On the street driving
Extra sections for this exam will be included depending on the endorsements you need.
After this exam has been passed, you have your CDL license in Illinois. -
Step 6
Get a Medical Examiner's certificate and carry with you at all times. Most Illinois CDL license holders are required to carry this. The forms needed are available from the Illinois State Police. The Illinois Secretary of State does not handle this requirement and doesn't have the forms or services for this. The Illinois State Police handles all the logistics related to this requirement.
