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 40 verified training programs serving the Gillespie, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Gillespie, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Gillespie?We have identified 40 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Gillespie area (Pop: 15,000).

Quick Stats

40 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 15,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Gillespie, 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
40

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Gillespie, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Gillespie, 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 40 training programsserving the Gillespie area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

40 CDL Schools Near Gillespie

Top Picks in Gillespie

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Lewis and Clark Community College

East Alton, IL

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

East Alton Wood River Community High School Dist. 14

Wood River, IL

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Illinois Central School Bus - Alton

Godfrey, IL

Call Now

Lewis and Clark Community College

East Alton, IL
21.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-468-5796

East Alton Wood River Community High School Dist. 14

Wood River, IL
23.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-254-3151

Illinois Central School Bus - Alton

Godfrey, IL
23.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

Carrollton Community Unit High School #1

Carrollton, IL
33.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 217-942-5314

Illinois Central School Bus - East St Louis

Caseyville, IL
37.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

Ramsey School

Ramsey, IL
37.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-423-2335

Ramsey School Distric 204

Ramsey, IL
37.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-423-2335

Illinois Central School Bus - O'Fallon

O'Fallon, IL
38.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

Vandalia Community Unit School Dist #203

Vandalia, IL
40.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-283-8110

Missouri Central School Bus - Ladue

St Ann, MO
40.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

MTC Truck Driver Training

St Ann, MO
41.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 314-895-4111

160 Driving Academy - St. Louis Yard

Bridgeton, MO
41.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-212-8626

Cdl training and consulting

Overland, MO
41.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 314-250-7932

160 Driving Academy - Belleville Yard

East St Louis, IL
41.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-436-0559

Missouri Central School Bus - Saint Louis South

St Louis, MO
41.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

CDL Training Schools - Bridgeton MO

Bridgeton, MO
42 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 314-435-8075

harmony emge school dist. 175

Belleville, IL
42.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-397-1195

160 Driving Academy - Belleville Classroom

Belleville, IL
42.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-436-0559

Lincoln Land Community College

Springfield, IL
42.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 217-786-2565

Belleville School Transportation Services (BSTS)

Belleville, IL
43.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 618-235-6338

Showing 20 of 39 schools

CDL Training in Gillespie, Illinois

Gillespie, Illinois has 40 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 Gillespie, 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 Gillespie?

  • 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 Gillespie

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 Gillespie: 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 Gillespie

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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

Tuition Costs in Gillespie

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

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Gillespie

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 Gillespie, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Gillespie

How long does CDL training take in Gillespie?
CDL training programs in Gillespie, 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 Gillespie without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Gillespie 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 Gillespie 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 Gillespie?
The CDL driver job outlook near Gillespie, 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 Gillespie?
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 Gillespie CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.