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 12 verified training programs serving the Lena, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Lena, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Lena?We have identified 12 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Lena area (Pop: 10,000).

Quick Stats

12 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 10,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Lena, 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
12

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Lena, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Lena, 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 12 training programsserving the Lena area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

12 CDL Schools Near Lena

Top Picks in Lena

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Sauk Valley Community College

Dixon, IL

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Illinois Central School Bus - Dixon

Dixon, IL

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

East Dubuque Public Schools

East Dubuque, IL

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160 Driving Academy - Freeport Classroom and Yard

Freeport, IL
10.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-205-1108

160 Driving Academy - Rockford Yard

Loves Park, IL
39.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-205-1773

Sauk Valley Community College

Dixon, IL
40.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-835-6212

Illinois Central School Bus - Dixon

Dixon, IL
41.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-409-4000

East Dubuque Public Schools

East Dubuque, IL
41.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-747-3188

Blackhawk Technical College

Janesville, WI
43.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 608-757-7714

Lakeside DieselTech Academy

Janesville, WI
48 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 414-336-0441

Latino Academy Truck Driving Training Center

Madison, WI
49.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 608-310-4573

Rock Valley College

Belvidere, IL
49.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 815-921-2076

New Glarus School District

New Glarus, WI
31 miles away
+1 608-527-2410

160 Driving Academy - Rockford - Classroom

Rockford, IL
38 miles away

Oregon School District

Oregon, WI
44 miles away
+1 608-835-4032

CDL Training in Lena, Illinois

Lena, Illinois has 12 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 Lena, 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 Lena?

  • 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 Lena

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 Lena: 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 Lena

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 12 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class ATanker
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BHazmat
VA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.
Class AHazmat
Weekend Classes
Rock Valley College
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved

Tuition Costs in Lena

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.

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CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Lena

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

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Lena

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