CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 19 verified training programs serving the East Peoria, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in East Peoria, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in East Peoria?We have identified 19 FMCSA-verified programs serving the East Peoria area (Pop: 40,000).

Quick Stats

19 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 40,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in East Peoria, IL

CDL License Types
Class A, Class B, Class C
Average Training Cost
$3,000 – $8,000
Program Length
3-8 weeks
Weekend / Evening Options
Available at select schools
FMCSA Registration Required
Yes
Verified Schools
19

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in East Peoria, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in East Peoria, IL should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 19 training programsserving the East Peoria area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

19 CDL Schools Near East Peoria

CDL Training Market in East Peoria, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

  • Active Schools2
  • ELDT Verified2
  • Average Tuition$3,500
  • Starting From$3,500
  • Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in East Peoria have access to 2 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,500.

Many schools in East Peoria offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.

Many schools partner with major carriers to offer job placement assistance upon graduation.

*Data verified by CDL Schools USA via the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Last updated: December 2026.

Top Picks in East Peoria

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

East Peoria community high school

East Peoria, IL

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Illinois Central College

East Peoria, IL

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Illinois Central School Bus, LLC

Bartonville, IL

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Illinois Central College

East Peoria, IL
4.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-694-8555

Illinois Central School Bus, LLC

Bartonville, IL
5.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

IUOE Local 649 Apprenticeship & Training

Peoria, IL
9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-697-1357

Metamora Township High School

Metamora, IL
14.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-367-4151

FARMINGTON SCHOOL DIST. CUSD 265

Farmington, IL
21.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-245-4231

Spoon River College

Canton, IL
25.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-647-2794

Heartland Community College

Normal, IL
31.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-268-8448

Illinois State University

Normal, IL
32.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-438-3382

Chester East Lincoln School

Lincoln, IL
38.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 217-732-4136

Illinois Central School Bus - Heyworth

Heyworth, IL
40.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

Lexington Schools

Lexington, IL
41.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-365-4141

Leroy schools

Le Roy, IL
48.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 309-530-2775

PRINCETON HIGH SCHOOL

Princeton, IL
49.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-875-3308

Princeton Elementary Schools

Princeton, IL
49.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-875-6417

160 Driving Academy - Peoria - Yard

Peoria, IL
6.4 miles away

160 Driving Academy - Peoria - Classroom

Peoria, IL
8.1 miles away

CDL Training in East Peoria, Illinois

East Peoria, Illinois has 19 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. Chicago is the largest intermodal hub in North America, with 25% of all US rail freight passing through. Average CDL driver salary in Illinois is about $57,600 per year, with experienced drivers reaching $80,000. The intermodal & distribution sector creates high demand for qualified CDL holders near East Peoria, and major freight corridors such as I-80/I-55/I-94 corridors connect graduates to local, regional, and long-haul work. Every school listed on this page is tied to FMCSA Training Provider Registry review, which matters because ELDT completion must come from a registered provider before a first-time CDL applicant can take the skills test.

Why Get CDL Training Near East Peoria?

  • Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
  • Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
  • Financial Aid: Schools in Illinois often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
  • ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

CDL training in Illinois typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

Trucking Jobs Near East Peoria

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000
Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Illinois
2,500+
Open trucking positions in Illinois

Top employers hiring near East Peoria: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Compare CDL Schools in East Peoria

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 15 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class AClass BHazmat
VA Approved
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class AHazmatTanker
Class AHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.
Class AHazmat
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Leroy schools
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Lexington Schools
FMCSA Verified
Class A
VA Approved
Class AClass BTanker
Weekend Classes

Tuition Costs in East Peoria

Avg. Private School
$5,500
Avg. Public School
$4,000
Price Range
$3,500 - $7,000

Midwest hub. 160 Driving Academy dominates here with mid-range pricing.

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

Get Matched FREE

DOT Physicals Near East Peoria

Required for your CDL medical card

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - North Peoria

4737 Professional Dr, Peoria
5
$74-$131
Walk-ins OK

DOT Exams Now - Midtown Peoria

6778 Health Plaza, Peoria
4.9
$109-$173

FastMed Urgent Care - South Peoria

1502 Professional Dr, Peoria
4.6
$123-$198

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam typically costs $55-$150 and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in East Peoria

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local Secretary of State office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find Secretary of State Office

Required Online Compliance Training

Before driving for a fleet operating out of East Peoria, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in East Peoria

How long does CDL training take in East Peoria?
CDL training programs in East Peoria, IL typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.
How much does CDL school cost in Illinois?
CDL training costs in Illinois range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.
Can I get a CDL in East Peoria without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the East Peoria area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.
How do I know if a CDL school in East Peoria is legitimate?
All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.
Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?
Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.
Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Illinois?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Illinois: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.
What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near East Peoria?
The CDL driver job outlook near East Peoria, IL is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Illinois experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.
Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in East Peoria?
The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most East Peoria CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

Complete CDL Training Guide for East Peoria Area Residents

While CDL training options directly in East Peoria are limited, there are excellent opportunities throughout Illinois and nearby areas. Here's everything you need to know to start your trucking career.

CDL Jobs in Illinois

Average Salary
$50,000 - $68,000
Key Industries

logistics hub, manufacturing, agriculture, and finance

In-Demand Specializations
  • Intermodal from Chicago
  • Refrigerated
  • Grain hauling
Major Routes

I-55, I-57, I-80, I-90

Top Employers

Schneider, JB Hunt, CRST, local carriers

Funding Options

Illinois Workforce WIOA, DCEO training grants

Nearby Cities with More Options

Consider these nearby cities with more FMCSA-verified CDL schools:

View All Illinois Schools

Illinois CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

  • Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate)
  • Hold a valid driver's license
  • Pass a DOT physical examination
  • Complete ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider
  • Pass CDL knowledge and skills tests
3-8
Weeks to complete
View Full Requirements

Can't Afford CDL School?

Many trucking companies offer FREE CDL training with employment commitment.

View Paid Training Programs