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what do i need to get a cdl permit in illinois

by Clotilde Kutch Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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To being the application process for getting a CDL in Illinois, you must meet these requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old (must be 21 to drive out of state/transport passengers)
  • Have a valid, non-CDL driver's license
  • Be able to provide legal proof of residence in the U.S. Examples of proof of residence

A CLP must be obtained by passing the Combination Knowledge (Class A) written test and/or the appropriate Endorsement/Restriction Knowledge written test(s) and pay the appropriate fee(s). After the CLP has been obtained you will need to schedule a CDL appointment to conduct the necessary skills/drive testing.

What are the requirements for a CDL license in Illinois?

To being the application process for getting a CDL in Illinois, you must meet these requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old (must be 21 to drive out of state/transport passengers)
  • Have a valid, non-CDL driver's license
  • Be able to provide legal proof of residence in the U.S. Examples of proof of residence

What are the requirements for obtaining a CDL?

  • Complete an entry-level training course.
  • Test for and obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP).
  • Hold your CLP for a minimum of 14 days.
  • Take the road skills test for your commercial driver's license (CDL).

How to get your CDL in Illinois?

Illinois CDL Overview

  • Illinois CDL Classes And Endorsements. ...
  • Minimum Requirements For Getting A CDL In Illinois: Be able to provide legal proof of residence in the U.S. ...
  • Physical Requirements For Getting A Illinois CDL: To prove you are physically capable of driving a CMV, you must meet these federal requirements. ...

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How to get commercial drivers license in Illinois?

You will need to bring to the appointment:

  • 1 document proving legal presence in the United States. The document must be appropriate to your category of application: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or non-domiciled resident. ...
  • Proof that you are medically qualified to apply for a commercial driver's license.
  • The $50 CLP processing fee.

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What do I need to bring to get my CDL permit in Illinois?

To get your CLP, you must:Pass the knowledge written exam.Pass the required skills exam. ... Submit a review of your driving record. ... One (1) document proving legal residence in the U.S.Valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.$50 CLP examination fee.

How much is a CDL permit in Illinois?

Driver's LicenseCommercial Driver's License (CDL)– Renewal or Transfer in from another state$60Instruction Permit – Original *If you receive your license prior to the expiration of your instruction permit, you may not need to pay an additional fee.$20Motorcycle – First time or upgrade M or L classification$1016 more rows

What are the 3 tests for CDL permit?

To get your Commercial Driver License (CDL), you need to pass the vision test, knowledge test, and a road test.

Do I need a DOT physical to get my CDL permit in Illinois?

Illinois CDL Requirements Illinois law requires all CDL drivers to have a valid DOT medical card, unless the type of commerce you drive qualifies as 'Excepted' (EI) or (EA). You must meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements. You must meet your State of licensure's medical certification requirements.

How can I get my CDL without going to school?

You can search out a state where you can get your CDL (which usually involves surrendering any driver license from another state, providing proof of residency, waiting 14 days between getting your Commercial Learner's Permit [CLP] and taking the CDL test, and passing the multi-step CDL exam) without attending a school.

How many questions are on the CDL permit test in Illinois?

This is why we have constructed this DMV practice test 2022 Illinois quiz with only 20 multiple choice questions, rather than the full 50 questions which appear on the real exam.

How much is a CDL license?

As we discussed in our previous article, CDL tuition can range from $1,500 to $8,000. Combined with the other costs described above, obtaining your CDL can cost up to $9,000. These costs all depend on the location of your licensing and your training.

What are retarders CDL?

CDL retarders are found on some commercial vehicles and are designed to help slow a vehicle and reduce the need to use your brakes. When used properly, the retarders reduce your brake wear and provide you with another option for slowing down. The main types of CDL retarders include: Exhaust retarders.

How do I go about getting my CDL?

Once you've finished getting informed and making decisions, there are three basic steps to getting a CDL:Step 1: Get the Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) ... Step 2: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training. ... Step 3: Get the Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

Does a DOT physical include a drug test in Illinois?

Does a DOT physical include a drug test? Drug testing is not part of a DOT physical exam but your Company may request to have drug or alcohol testing done at the same time. DOT drug testing and breath alcohol testing are additional charges.

How long is a CDL permit good for in Illinois?

Once you obtain your initial temporary CLP, your CLP (both temporary and permanent combined) will be valid for one year. You must schedule a CDL skills/drive testing appointment to complete your testing.

What does a DOT physical consist of in Illinois?

What Does this Exam Consist of? A DOT Physical evaluates a driver's vision, blood pressure, and a complete review of their medical history. This can help ensure that a driver does not have certain health conditions and can safely operate a commercial vehicle.

How much does it cost to get a CDL license?

between $3,000 and $10,000Truck driving school costs and CDL fees will vary based upon the school you choose and where you live, but the total cost typically falls somewhere between $3,000 and $10,000.

How much is a CDL license?

As we discussed in our previous article, CDL tuition can range from $1,500 to $8,000. Combined with the other costs described above, obtaining your CDL can cost up to $9,000. These costs all depend on the location of your licensing and your training.

Can a felon get a CDL in Illinois?

A person applying for a CDL is disqualified if they have been convicted of a felony, which involves the use of a vehicle for one (1) year for a first offense and for life (with the possibility of reinstatement after 10 years) for a second offense.

Do you need a CDL to drive a school bus in Illinois?

What License do you Need to Drive a School Bus in Illinois? You will need a CDL to drive a school bus in Illinois and you will have to have the “P” passenger certification on your license. You will also have to have the “SBP” indicator for your school bus permit as well.

How to get a CDL license in Illinois?

Getting Started . . . 1 The first step is to get a free copy of the Illinois CDL Manual - IL CDL Handbook. The Illinois manual is available in the Illinois field locations, downloaded from the Illinois website and printed. Illinois has its own process to get your Illinois CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit). 2 The second step is to decide which type of vehicle and what kind of driving you want to get the CDL for. 3 There are 3 classes of Illinois CDLs with endorsements for specialized qualifications for vehicles like school buses, tank trucks, tractor trailers, etc. Each type of Illinois CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit) and endorsement requires you to pass written tests and in some cases a 3-part skills test in a representative type vehicle. It is important to make sure you pass all the required tests or risk having restrictions on your license.

How long do you have to take the CDL test in Illinois?

You are required to possess the Illinois CLP for 14 days before taking the Skills Test. Some states require the successful completion of Illinois CDL training prior to testing. Regardless, it is highly recommended that you practice the inspection tests and maneuvers in the Illinois CDL Manual that you will be tested on with a qualified individual before showing up for the test. You must pass all 3 parts of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their "training aid" to help you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist. Taking the Skills test is no guarantee that you will pass. Once you have passed the Skills Test you need to take the documentation to the counter for processing. Some states will give you the Illinois CDL that same day, while others send it to you in the mail. Regardless make sure that everything is correct before you leave the counter. It can be costly and embarrassing if you find a mistake later.

What is a TIP in Illinois?

You must pass all required knowledge tests to obtain a Illinois CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). This allows you to practice driving under supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the type of vehicle you wish to drive. A Illinois CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP) is also required for taking the IL CDL skills tests.

How many CDL written tests are covered in Illinois?

Covers ALL Eight Illinois CDL written tests. In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require. Covers ALL Three Illinois CDL skills tests. In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.

Can you take the Skills test in Illinois?

Taking the Skills test is no guarantee that you will pass. Once you have passed the Skills Test you need to take the documentation to the counter for processing. Some states will give you the Illinois CDL that same day, while others send it to you in the mail.

How long do you have to have a permit to get a CDL in Illinois?

After you've had your commercial learner's permit for at least 14 days, you will be eligible to apply for your Illinois commercial driver's license. Schedule another appointment with the IL Secretary of State, and be prepared to: Take the skills/driving tests necessary for the class of CDL you're applying for.

How old do you have to be to get a CDL in Illinois?

Those 21 years old or over may drive out-of-state and commercial motor vehicles that transport passengers. If you got your CDL from another state and wish to transfer it to Illinois, you must follow the same process as a first-time CDL applicant in IL.

How much does it cost to renew a CDL license in Illinois?

Take the skills/driving tests necessary for the class of CDL you're applying for. Bring in a vehicle of the same type you plan to drive. Pay the $60 commercial driver's license processing fee. Once you've acquired your commercial driver license in Illinois, you will have to renew it every 4 years.

What is DMV practice test?

We offer a series of DMV Practice tests to help you prepare for your Commercial Driver License test. In addition to carefully studying your state's driver handbook, these tests will give you an idea about the types of questions you may see on the actual written test.

How often do you need to renew your CDL in Illinois?

Once you've acquired your commercial driver license in Illinois, you will have to renew it every 4 years. See our guide to renewing your CDL in IL for more information.

Why is there a restriction on CDL in Illinois?

A restriction can also be placed on your Illinois CDL to prevent you from driving certain commercial vehicles, for various reasons—such as testing in the wrong type of commercial vehicle for your CDL class.

How long is a CLP valid in Illinois?

After successfully passing the knowledge tests, you will receive your commercial learner's permit from the IL Secretary of State. Your CLP will be valid for 180 days. You may renew it up to 30 days before and 5 days after its expiration date without having to retake the knowledge exams for an additional $50.

How old do you have to be to get a CDL license in Illinois?

All applicants for the commercial license must be at least 18 years of age to drive intrastate, and 21 years of age to work in interstate commerce.

What is the minimum weight required for a CDL license in Illinois?

The CDL is required to operate CMVs with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, or CMVs that carry 16 or more people. Drivers must be a certain age and have specific experience in order ...

How to schedule CDL test?

Drivers can schedule the CDL driving test online, at many locations, or by calling 217-785-3013. When the driver arrives at the appointment, he or she should bring proof of vehicle insurance, valid license plates and current vehicle safety inspections for the vehicle that will be used during the test.

What is CDL exam?

A CDL medical exam is required by all Illinois drivers who plan on receiving a non-excepted interstate or intrastate license. Applicable drivers must complete a CDL physical with a qualified physician to demonstrate meeting the minimum standards, as established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). To qualify, the doctor completing the physical must be a part of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), and must sign and complete the official FMCSA Medical Examination Report Form (MCSA-5875).

What is a Class A license in Illinois?

A Class A license is used to operate combination vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 or more pounds, if the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds. A Class B CDL is for operators of single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, ...

What is a CDL endorsement?

CDL endorsements are issued to drivers of certain types of vehicles, or those who are transporting certain types of goods. The hazmat endorsement, for example, is required of all drivers who plan on transporting hazardous materials. Important endorsements for commercial licenses in Illinois include the below:

How long does it take to get a temporary CDL permit?

A permanent license is mailed to the driver within 15 days. The driver cannot continue with state testing without the permit, which is valid for 180 days. If the CLP expires before the driver completes the commercial licensing exams, he or she will have to start the entire application process over again, from the beginning.

How to pass CDL test in Illinois?

To pass the Illinois CDL skills test, applicants must successfully perform all the required skills (listed in 49 CFR 383.113 through 49 CFR 383.123). The skills test must be taken in a vehicle representative of the type of vehicle that the applicant operates or expects to operate.

How old do you have to be to drive a CDL in Illinois?

You must be at least 18 years old to hold a Illinois CDL and drive a commercial vehicle within the state of Illinois. You must be at least age 21 to drive a commercial motor vehicle across Illinois state lines, carry hazardous materials, or transport any passengers.

Who Is Exempt From Getting A Illinois CDL?

FMCSA regulations specifically exempt only military personnel with comparable safe-driving experience from getting CDL's. States are authorized to provide exemptions for the rest of the following at their own discretion:

What is the classification of a CDL in Illinois?

Illinois CDL Classes And Endorsements. CDLs are required for Class A, B, and C driving. The classifications are: Class A — Combination of vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds. Class B — Single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ...

What is the maximum weight of a CDL in Illinois?

All commercial drivers of vehicles in interstate commerce with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating of over 10,000 pounds are required to obtain and maintain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (ME Certificate). CDL holders in Illinois must provide their SDLA with a copy of their ME Certificate.

What is self certification in Illinois?

All Illinois CDL holders must declare to their State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA) that they only operate or expect to operate commercially in 1 of 4 possible categories with their CDL. This process is called self-certification. The four categories are:

How often do you have to renew your Illinois CDL?

You are also required to pay the $60 license processing fee. Your Illinois CDL expires every 4 years, so you must renew and retake the vision exam each time, and possibly the written exam, depending on your driving record.

Illinois CDL Classifications

For individuals to be allowed to drive a commercial vehicle in Illinois, applicants must earn their Illinois CDL. Only vehicles such as tanker vehicles, double and triple trailers, passenger vehicles, and vehicles carrying materials that are found to be hazardous require endorsements.

Illinois CDL License Restrictions

Aside from the additional privileges granted alongside these license endorsements, the Illinois CDL restrictions are used to prevent drivers from operating under conditions such as driving both an automatic transmission vehicle and a regular manual geared vehicle.

Illinois CDL Requirements and Qualifications

When applying for Illinois CDL, applicants must be of 18 years old to be allowed to drive within the state of Illinois and at least 21 years of age to either transport hazardous materials and drive interstate.

Illinois CDL Test

To be able to acquire a CDL license, applicants must pass the two types of exams offered: namely the CDL Knowledge test and CDL Road Skills Test after scheduling an appointment with their local Commercial Driver License Road Skills Test.

How old do you have to be to get a CDL in Illinois?

Illinois Basic CDL Requirements. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old to apply for an Illinois Commercial Drivers License. Commercial drivers between the age of 18 and 21 are only allowed to operate a commercial vehicle in Illinois.

What is a CDL license in Illinois?

Illinois Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Requirements. If you’re looking for a career as a professional driver, chances are you’ll need to get a commercial drivers license. Getting an Illinois Commercial Drivers License, also known as the Illinois CDL, can be a challenge; there are quite a few Illinois CDL requirements as well as ...

How much does a commercial driver's license weigh?

Generally speaking, though, you’ll need a commercial drivers license if you’ll be operating the following: • Combination of vehicles weighing 26, 001 pounds or more, • Single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 26, 001 pounds or more.

What is CDL classification in Illinois?

Classifications refers to the size of the vehicle.

Do you have to pass a physical exam to get a CDL in Illinois?

Because being a commercial driver can have some considerable physical demands, the state of Illinois requires Illinois CDL holders to pass a physical exam – this exam is more than just an eye test, as you can see by reviewing the Illinois CDL Medical Examination Report.

How old do I have to be to apply for a CDL?

Like most states, Illinois offers both an interstate CDL, available to drivers over 21 years old, and an intrastate CDL, which can be obtained by drivers 18 years old and older. This means that while you may drive commercially within Illinois once you turn 18 years old, you won't be allowed to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines until you're 21 years old.

How old do you have to be to drive a car in Illinois?

This means that while you may drive commercially within Illinois once you turn 18 years old, you won't be allowed to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines until you're 21 years old.

What about out-of-state CDLs?

So when you move to Illinois, you'll need to give up your out-of-state license to get a CDL in Illinois. Applicants must do the following to change their out-of-state CDL for an Illinois CDL:

Who doesn't need a commercial driver's license?

Drivers of farm vehicles may be exempt, or they may instead require a special type of CDL called a Farm-Related Service Vehicle CDL. This is a seasonal distance-restricted license.

How much weight do you need to drive a CDL?

While we usually think of commercial drivers as truckers driving big rigs transporting goods, you need a CDL to drive any of the following vehicles: Vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of at least 26,001 lbs. or more, as long as the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is heavier than 10,000 lbs.

Can you waive a road test for CDL in Illinois?

The road test may be waived if your out-of-state CDL is equivalent to the one you are applying for in Illinois (i.e. the same license class and endorsements).

Are there any other CDL waivers or exemptions?

There are some other Illinois CDL waivers and exemptions, including those for people helping operate snowplows and other civic vehicles.

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Benefits

  • A temporary CDL learners permit will be issued immediately after submitting a successful application and passing the necessary exams. A permanent license is mailed to the driver within 15 days. The driver cannot continue with state testing without the permit, which is valid for 180 days. If the CLP expires before the driver completes the commercial licensing exams, he or she …
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Qualification

  • All drivers must pass the CDL general knowledge test, in addition to any written tests for specific classes or endorsements, in order to receive their licenses. This basic CDL written test includes 30, standardized, multiple-choice questions, and the driver must pass the exam with at least 80 percent answered correctly. Other exams drivers may have to pass in order to receive the comm…
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Curriculum

  • Illinois drivers are not required to enroll in CDL training school, but the IDT encourages all drivers to make sure they have adequate training before getting behind the wheel. Drivers can also learn about trucking by reviewing the CDL prep book issued by the IDT, which goes into detail about all of the topics that will be covered on the knowledge and skills-based exams. Students looking fo…
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Access

  • How to get a CDL in Illinois is determined by the Illinois Department of Transportation and federal regulations. To apply for CDL licensure, drivers must begin by meeting the application requirements mentioned previously. This includes providing proof of possessing the valid documentation, passing the knowledge exam and more. Drivers who will be dr...
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Use

  • Once the driver has received a CLP and is preparing the CDL application, he or she should spend as much time as needed learning the ins and outs of the class of CMV he or she will be licensed to drive. The driver must have the CLP for at least two weeks before applying for a full license. At this time, the driver may have to pay additional processing fees. Once confident in his or her abil…
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Route

  • All drivers must follow a predetermined route when taking the road exam, completing the necessary maneuvers and inspections, as required by the examiner. Drivers must pass all three parts of the test at the same time to receive the license. The three parts of the CDL test are the:
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Operation

  • Under the waiver program, the military CDL allows drivers to choose from the Even Exchange and the Skills Test waiver options. For either waiver option, the driver must have his or her Commanding Officer provide a completed application, with the required documentation, sent via email to the CDL Division at: [email protected]. Note that military drivers must still p…
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Specifications

  • CDL endorsements are issued to drivers of certain types of vehicles, or those who are transporting certain types of goods. The hazmat endorsement, for example, is required of all drivers who plan on transporting hazardous materials. Important endorsements for commercial licenses in Illinois include the below:
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Cost

  • The total CDL license cost varies from driver to driver because, of the multiple fees that go into it. Beginning with the CDL permit cost, drivers can expect to pay any combination of the following fees:
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1.Commercial Driver's License - ilsos.gov

Url:https://ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers_license/CDL/cdl.html

20 hours ago Requirements to Obtain an Original Illinois CLP or Transfer a CDL From Another State. You must be age 18 to apply for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or a Commercial Learner's Permit …

2.Illinois CDL Permit - CLP Commercial Learners Permit

Url:https://online-cdl-test.com/Illinois/IL-cdl-clp-instruction-learners-permit

25 hours ago Step 1: Get the Illinois Commercial Learners Permit (IL CLP) A Illinois Commercial Learners Permit (IL CLP) is a permit that only authorizes you to practice on public roads with a qualified …

3.Apply for a New Illinois Commercial Driver's License

Url:https://www.dmv.org/il-illinois/apply-cdl.php

15 hours ago Minimum Requirements For Getting A CDL In Illinois: To being the application process for getting a CDL in Illinois, you must meet these requirements: Be at least 18 years old (must be 21 to …

4.How to Get a Commercial Drivers License in Illinois

Url:https://www.dmv.com/il/illinois/cdl-commercial-drivers-license-application

35 hours ago What do you need to get your CDL permit in Illinois? To get your CLP, you must: Pass the knowledge written exam. Pass the required skills exam. … Submit a review of your driving …

5.Illinois CDL - Requirements, Costs, Training, & More

Url:https://www.truckingtruth.com/cdl-requirements/illinois-cdl/

27 hours ago  · Illinois CDL Requirements and Qualifications When applying for Illinois CDL, applicants must be of 18 years old to be allowed to drive within the state of Illinois and at least …

6.Videos of What Do I Need to Get a CDL Permit in Illinois

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18 hours ago We’ve broken down the process to help you understand what you’ll need to earn your Illinois CDL. Illinois Basic CDL Requirements. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old to apply for an Illinois …

7.What you need to know to get Illinois CDL?

Url:https://cdl-prep.com/illinois-cdl/

4 hours ago Military CDL Waiver Programs; Proof of Legal Presence; Publications and Forms; Renewal; Requirements. Obtain an Original Illinois CLP or Transfer a CDL From Another State; Existing …

8.Illinois Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Requirements

Url:https://www.idrivesafely.com/dmv/illinois/commerical-drivers-license/

17 hours ago So when you move to Illinois, you'll need to give up your out-of-state license to get a CDL in Illinois. Applicants must do the following to change their out-of-state CDL for an Illinois CDL: …

9.Commercial Driver's License (CDL) - ilsos.gov

Url:https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers_license/CDL/home.html

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10.Illinois Commercial Driver's License FAQ | DMV.ORG

Url:https://www.dmv.org/il-illinois/cdl-faqs.php

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