In the Chicago metro area, the average cost of a CDL-A class is $3679 and the average class length is approximately 8 weeks long
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Chicago, IL 60603$4,500 total
The CDL-A program is offered in in a weekday or weekend format. The weekday option meets Monday through Thursday, from 7 am-5:30 pm for four weeks and the weekend option meets Saturday and Sunday, 7 am-5:30 pm for eight weeks. Graduates will be prepared to test for a Class A Commercial Driver’s License. Students are given the opportunity to take the CDL driving test at their local DMV office in the same vehicle they used to complete their training.
To be accepted into the program, students are required to obtain and submit a South Carolina CDL Permit, a DOT physical, and a DOT drug screen before class starts. A 10-year driving record is obtained from the SCDMV during the application process as well. All paperwork must be completed and submitted before the student can be scheduled for a class. The program has been inspected, approved, and licensed by S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles. All instructors meet the department’s standards and are certified by the DMV.
No cost info
The Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) program at Progressive Truck Driving School is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate commercial motor vehicles. Students will undergo classroom instruction as well as hands-on training to learn the rules and regulations of the industry and master the techniques of driving a large commercial truck. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be ready to take the CDL-A test and pursue a career in the trucking industry.
No cost info
The Commercial Driver's License Class A program at CDL Columbia Driving School CO is designed to help aspiring truck drivers obtain the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a Class A vehicle. The program is comprehensive and covers all aspects of operating a truck including safety, vehicle inspection, and regulatory compliance. Graduates of the program will be prepared to take the CDL-A exam and enter the trucking industry as professional drivers.
$4,000 total
Our Class A Tractor/Trailer Operator program is designed for entry level driver preparation of the Illinois CDL test and successful employment through an intensive 4 Week program.
Field training includes both observation and behind the wheel time. The field training consist of driving in training areas that include a combination of highway, city and heavy traffic driving.
Drivers graduating from this course will be prepared to work nationwide, regionally and locally for the nation's largest truckload carriers.
No cost info
Alamo Truck Driving School offers a comprehensive 160-hour Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) program for aspiring truck drivers. The program covers both classroom instruction and hands-on training, including pre-trip inspection, backing, shifting, and driving on the road. Graduates of the CDL-A program are well-prepared to begin a career in the trucking industry.
$2,200 total
Our Class A Tractor/Trailer Operator program is designed for entry level driver preparation of the Illinois CDL test and successful employment through an intensive 4 Week program.
Field training includes both observation and behind the wheel time. The field training consist of driving in training areas that include a combination of highway, city and heavy traffic driving.
Drivers graduating from this course will be prepared to work nationwide, regionally
No cost info
160 Driving Academy will give you all the knowledge and practice you need with 4 weeks of instruction in the classroom and in-depth training behind the wheel. Our CDL Class A certification course will prepare you to drive a "Class A" truck in any US state. You will be thoroughly prepared for your exam after 40 hours in the classroom and practice driving on local and interstate roads.
No cost info
This Class A CDL training course is designed to meet all theory (knowledge) requirements listed in The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 49 CFR Part 380, Special Training Requirements. It includes sections covering basic operation, safe operating procedures, advanced operating practices, vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions, and non-driving activities—all essential to obtaining your Class A driver’s license. This CDL course was created in collaboration with an approved training provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR).
$195 total
The Commercial Truck Driver class offered by Mid City Truck Driving Academy (MCTDA) located in Chicago, IL is a comprehensive program designed to give students the skills and knowledge they need to become successful commercial truck drivers. The class covers topics such as defensive driving, vehicle inspection, and cargo handling, and provides hands-on experience with a variety of truck types. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to obtain their CDL and begin their career as a professional truck driver.
$5,000 total
Chicago is a bustling metropolitan city with a thriving job market, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to become truck drivers. The city's strategic location and well-developed transportation infrastructure offer numerous opportunities for individuals looking to pursue a career in the trucking industry. Whether you're interested in landing truck driver jobs or aiming to earn a good truck driver salary, Chicago provides a wealth of options to help you become a professional truck driver. With a variety of CDL-A classes available near you, the path to a rewarding career in the trucking industry is within reach.
A CDL-A, or Commercial Driver's License Class A, is the highest level of commercial driver's license in the United States. This license allows individuals to operate a combination of vehicles, such as a tractor-trailer, semi-truck, or any vehicle that weighs over 26,000 pounds and can tow a vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds. The CDL-A license is essential for those who wish to pursue a career as a long-haul or over-the-road truck driver, as it grants them the authority to operate a wide range of commercial vehicles.
To obtain a CDL-A license in Chicago, individuals must complete a comprehensive training program that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of commercial driving. This typically includes classroom instruction on topics such as vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and compliance with federal and state regulations. Additionally, trainees will receive hands-on training behind the wheel, allowing them to develop the necessary skills and experience to operate large commercial vehicles safely.
The time it takes to become a truck driver in Chicago can vary depending on the training program and the individual's prior experience. However, the fastest path to becoming a truck driver typically involves enrolling in an accredited CDL-A training program that offers an accelerated curriculum. These programs can often be completed in as little as 3-4 weeks, allowing individuals to obtain their CDL-A license and be on the road in a relatively short period.
Chicago is home to several reputable CDL-A training providers, each offering unique programs and schedules to accommodate the needs of aspiring truck drivers. Here are a few examples of CDL-A classes available in the city:
Chicago Truck Driving School
Windy City Trucking Academy
Chicago CDL Training Center
If you've been reading this article and aspire to become a Truck Driver, but you reside in a different state, rest assured that achieving your goal is still within reach. You might consider exploring opportunities to become a Truck Driver in Baltimore, Colorado Springs, Minneapolis, Phoenix, or San Diego. Don't worry if you haven't found your location among these, because Dreambound makes it easier than ever to pursue your dreams regardless of your location by simplifying the process of finding and comparing CDL-A classes through a convenient search by zip code. With dedication and access to the right resources, you can confidently pursue a successful career in trade, construction, and industry, no matter where you live.
While in-person CDL-A training programs are the most common path to obtaining a commercial driver's license in Chicago, there are also online and free options available to consider.
Online CDL-A Training Several online CDL-A training providers offer self-paced, web-based courses that allow students to complete the theoretical portion of their training from the comfort of their own homes. These programs are often more affordable and convenient, but students will still need to complete the hands-on, behind-the-wheel training with a local partner school.
Free CDL-A Training In some cases, individuals may be eligible for free CDL-A training programs in Chicago. These programs are typically funded by state or federal grants and are designed to provide training and employment opportunities for underserved communities or those facing financial barriers. While the training is free, students may still need to cover the cost of the CDL-A license and exam fees.
Obtaining a CDL-A license in Chicago involves a multi-step process that includes both theoretical and practical examinations. After completing a CDL-A training program, students will need to pass a written exam covering topics such as vehicle inspection, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. Additionally, they will be required to demonstrate their skills in a behind-the-wheel assessment, where they will be evaluated on their ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely and efficiently.
Once the written and practical exams have been successfully passed, the student will be issued a CDL-A license, which is valid for a set period of time (typically 4-5 years) and must be renewed periodically to maintain their driving privileges.
Chicago's strategic location and robust transportation infrastructure make it an attractive destination for truck drivers. The city is home to numerous logistics and distribution companies, as well as major retailers and manufacturers, all of which rely on a steady supply of commercial drivers to transport goods and materials. Some of the largest potential employers for truck drivers in Chicago include:
With a growing demand for skilled truck drivers, the job environment in Chicago is generally favorable, offering competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. As the city continues to thrive, the need for qualified commercial drivers is expected to remain strong, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a rewarding career in the trucking industry.
Chicago's thriving job market and well-developed transportation infrastructure make it an ideal destination for those interested in becoming truck drivers. With a variety of CDL-A classes available near you, the path to a rewarding career in the trucking industry is within reach. Whether you're looking to land truck driver jobs or earn a good truck driver salary, the city offers numerous opportunities for aspiring commercial drivers to get behind the wheel and start their journey towards a successful and fulfilling career.
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