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 20 verified training programs serving the Charleston, Illinois area.
CDL Schools in Charleston, IL
Are you looking for commercial driver training in Charleston?We have identified 20 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Charleston area (Pop: 20,000).
Quick Stats
Quick Facts: CDL Training in Charleston, IL
Local CDL training answer
How should students compare CDL schools in Charleston, IL?
Students comparing CDL schools in Charleston, 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 20 training programsserving the Charleston area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.
20 CDL Schools Near Charleston
CDL Training Market in Charleston, IL (2026 Report)
Market Snapshot
- Active Schools1
- ELDT Verified1
- Average Tuition$3,500
- Starting From$3,500
- Weekend TrainingAvailable
Aspiring truck drivers in Charleston have access to 1 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 Charleston 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 Charleston
Editor's ChoiceIllinois Central School Bus - Charleston
Mattoon Community Unit Schools #2
Lake Land College
Kansas Schools
Marshall Schools
Lake Land College
Marshall schools
Marshall schools
Paris Cooperative High School
Illinois Central School Bus - Tolono
Cowden-Herrick Schools
SOUTH VERMILLION COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Illinois Central School Bus - Monticello
160 Driving Academy - Ivy Tech - Terre Haute - Yard
Vigo County School Corporation
160 Driving Academy - Ivy Tech - Terre Haute - Classroom
160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Classroom
160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Yard
Richland Community College
CDL Training in Charleston, Illinois
Charleston, Illinois has 20 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 Charleston, 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 Charleston?
- 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 Charleston
Get hired after you complete your CDL training
Top employers hiring near Charleston: 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 Charleston
Side-by-side comparison of top training programs
School Name | City | Program Types | Key Features | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Classroom FMCSA Verified | Class AClass BHazmat | Manual Trans.Weekend Classes | ||
160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Yard FMCSA Verified | Class AClass BHazmatTanker | Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved | ||
160 Driving Academy - Ivy Tech - Terre Haute - Classroom FMCSA Verified | Class A | Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes | ||
160 Driving Academy - Ivy Tech - Terre Haute - Yard FMCSA Verified | Class ATanker | Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved | ||
Cowden-Herrick Schools FMCSA Verified | Class AHazmat | Manual Trans.Evening Classes | ||
Illinois Central School Bus - Charleston FMCSA Verified | Class AClass B | Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes | ||
Illinois Central School Bus - Monticello FMCSA Verified | Class AClass BHazmatTanker | Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes | ||
Illinois Central School Bus - Tolono FMCSA Verified | Class AClass BHazmat | Manual Trans.Evening Classes | ||
Kansas Schools FMCSA Verified | Class ATanker | Manual Trans.Evening Classes | ||
Lake Land College FMCSA Verified | Class AClass BHazmatTanker | Manual Trans.Evening Classes | ||
Lake Land College FMCSA Verified | Class AClass BTanker | Weekend Classes | ||
Marshall schools FMCSA Verified | Class AHazmatTanker | Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved | ||
Marshall Schools FMCSA Verified | Class AClass BHazmatTanker | Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved | ||
Marshall schools FMCSA Verified | Class AClass B | |||
Mattoon Community Unit Schools #2 FMCSA Verified | Class A | Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes |
Tuition Costs in Charleston
Midwest hub. 160 Driving Academy dominates here with mid-range pricing.
Nearby Cities
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Get Matched FREECDL Testing & Secretary of State in Charleston
Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Charleston DMV. Port city - CDL testing
Visit Charleston CDL Secretary of StateRequired Online Compliance Training
Before driving for a fleet operating out of Charleston, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Charleston
How long does CDL training take in Charleston?
How much does CDL school cost in Illinois?
Can I get a CDL in Charleston without quitting my job?
How do I know if a CDL school in Charleston is legitimate?
Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?
Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Illinois?
What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Charleston?
Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Charleston?
Complete CDL Training Guide for Charleston Area Residents
While CDL training options directly in Charleston 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
logistics hub, manufacturing, agriculture, and finance
- Intermodal from Chicago
- Refrigerated
- Grain hauling
I-55, I-57, I-80, I-90
Schneider, JB Hunt, CRST, local carriers
Illinois Workforce WIOA, DCEO training grants
Nearby Cities with More Options
Consider these nearby cities with more FMCSA-verified CDL schools:
View All Illinois SchoolsBoost Your Earnings
After getting your CDL, consider these additional certifications to increase your earning potential:
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
Can't Afford CDL School?
Many trucking companies offer FREE CDL training with employment commitment.
This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Illinois, including training programs in Charleston and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.
Essential Reading for CDL Students
Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Illinois