How to Get a CDL License in Illinois

If your goal is to gain employment driving commercial vehicles in the state of Illinois, you will need to know how to get a CDL license in Illinois. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required for any truck driver operating a vehicle that weighs 26,001 pounds or more, transports hazardous materials, or is designed to transport 16 or more passengers. This guide was prepared by our truck accident attorneys.

Pasos para obtener una licencia CDL de Illinois

1. Obtain an Illinois Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Before you can take the skills/driving CDL test, you must first pass the written test. Study the Illinois CDL Commercial Driver’s License Study Guide and take practice tests to prepare.
2. Practice driving with a licensed CDL holder. When operating a commercial vehicle with a CLP holder, a licensed CDL holder must accompany you. This lets you gain hands-on experience and prepare for the driving test.
3. Schedule and take the skills/driving test. Once you feel confident in your abilities, schedule an appointment with a certified testing facility to take the skills/driving test. This will include a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills test, and an on-road driving test.
4. Obtain your CDL. If you pass the skills/driving test, you will be issued your Illinois CDL license with the necessary endorsements.

¿Qué es una CDL en Illinois?

A CDL is a special license giving drivers permission to operatecommercial vehicles like trucks, buses, and trailers. Issued by the Illinois Secretary of State, Illinois CDL requirements include specific training and tests in order to drive a commercial motor vehicle on public roads and to engage in interstate commerce.

¿Qué certificado médico se exige en Illinois?

To operate a commercial vehicle, you must pass a medical examination (Section 15.2 of the study guide) and hold a valid medical examiner’s certificate. This certificate must be renewed every two years. Self-certifying your medical driving status may also be required, especially when driving across state lines.

¿Cuáles son mis opciones para tomar la formación CDL?

Prepárese para el examen CDL inscribiéndose en una escuela CDL, en un centro de terceros o en un programa patrocinado por el empleador. Elige la opción que mejor se adapte a tus necesidades y horarios.

¿Qué es una clase de CDL en Illinois?

Los vehículos combinados de clase A tienen una clasificación de peso bruto combinado (GCWR) de 26.001 libras o más, siempre que la clasificación de peso bruto del vehículo (GVWR) del vehículo remolcado sea superior a 10.000 libras (por ejemplo, remolques de tractores, camiones cisterna, transportadores de ganado y plataformas).

Class B—a single vehicle has a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds or is any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds (like the following vehicles: straight trucks, large buses, box trucks, and dump trucks).

Class C—a single vehicle has a GVWR of at least 16,001 pounds but less than 26,001 pounds (e.g., small buses and hazmat vehicles). A non-CDL license is valid.

Clase D-un solo vehículo tiene un GVWR de menos de 16,001 libras.

Requisitos

In order to be eligible, Illinois CDL holders are held to a higher standard than other drivers and must:

• Tener al menos 18 años (21 años para la conducción interestatal)
• Estar en posesión de un permiso de conducir válido en Illinois
• Have a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations
• Pass a physical exam to confirm you are physically capable and mentally fit to drive a commercial vehicle
• Acreditar su presencia legal en Estados Unidos

What Happens If I Do Not Pass My Knowledge Test or Driving Test?

The Third-time Fail Rule applies, according to the Illinois Secretary of State. Exam retakes require a 30-day wait after three failures, a 90-day wait after six failures, and a one-year wait after nine failures. Extra fees apply after every three failed attempts.

¿Necesito algún endoso especial en mi Illinois CDL?

Cada anotación requiere la superación de pruebas adicionales escritas y de aptitud/conducción.

• Hazardous materials endorsement (H)
• Pasajero (P)
• School bus (S)
• Cisterna (N)
• Double/triple trailers (T)
• Combination vehicles (X)—for driving combination vehicles with both air brakes and hazardous materials

¿Cuánto tiempo se tarda en obtener una licencia CDL en Illinois?

Getting a CDL in Illinois typically takes 1–3 months, depending on how quickly you complete the training and pass the required tests.

Renovar su Illinois CDL

CDL drivers need to renew their licenses every four years by passing a vision test and paying a fee. Only a one-time legal proof of residency is required. Endorsements may require separate renewal.

Cómo obtener ayuda en caso de accidente de camión

Si se lesiona en un accidente de camión, informe a su empleador y siga sus procedimientos. Póngase en contacto con nosotros para obtener asesoramiento legal y explorar sus opciones.