Obtaining an Illinois CDL opens the door to many opportunities but requires several eligibility criteria. Whether you are a first-time applicant or looking to renew your license, understanding the necessary qualifications, paperwork and testing is key to getting your CDL as fast as possible. Navigating the Illinois CDL requirements can be confusing but with the right guidance, it is easier to stay eligible for your CDL. Therefore, this post helps you break down each requirement, from the documentation to medical and required tests, ensuring you know exactly what is needed your your journey. Keep reading for more detailed eligibility to hit the road in Illinois!
What are the Illinois CDL requirements?
Obtaining a CDL in Illinois requires meeting specific criteria to ensure safety and competency on the road. Below is a full breakdown of all the requirements you need to fulfill to get your Illinois CDL successfully:
Age limit
In Illinois, the minimum age for applying for a CDL is 18. However, this will only qualify you for driving and transporting hazardous materials within the state. If you want to transport passengers or drive across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
Required documentation
Illinois CDL applicants have to present several documents to prove their identity, residency, and eligibility to apply. These documents include:
- Identification: A passport, birth certificate, or state-issued ID card is required
- U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident proof: A social security card will suffice for U.S. citizens. Non-citizens should be able to provide a valid Green Card or authorization to work in the U.S.
- Illinois resident: Provide at least two documents representing your current Illinois address, This may include a utility bill, bank statement, or lease in your name
- Social Security Number (SSN): Proof of SSN must be validated for all applicants through the Social Security Administration.
- Driver’s license: You must obtain a valid non-expired Illinois driver’s license to initiate the application process.
- Vehicle registration and insurance: A copy of registration if you have one in your name and proof of valid insurance is required.
Medical requirements
To make sure that drivers can safely operate commercial motor vehicles, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all CDL applicants to meet minimum medical fitness standards. You are required to make a self-certification, declaring whether you are an excepted or non-excepted driver. Non-excepted drivers must undergo a DOT physical exam conducted by a certified medical provider, to obtain a medical card – Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC). Some key checklists in the DOT physical you must fulfill are:
- Vision standards: Distant visual acuity of at lowest 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses
- Hearing: Ability to hear a whispered voice at least 5 feet away, with or without a hearing aid
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular: The level of blood pressure must be within the limits set by the DOT. Drivers who have undergone surgery for heart disease problems should provide clearance from a cardiologist that the complication does not interfere with their driving ability.
The MEC is valid for up to 24 months. Drives with specific medical conditions may receive a shorter validity period and need periodic re-evaluation.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
Before applying for a CDL, first-time applicants must secure a CLP. This permit is valid for 180 days and must be held for at least 14 days before scheduling the skills test. To get a CLP, you will need to pass one or more written tests, including:
- General knowledge test (core)
- Air brake (if applicable)
- Combination vehicles (for Class A licenses)
- Endorsement tests (if applicable)
Each written test covers different areas, requiring 80% of correct answers to pass. Practicing sample tests is crucial to understanding test structure and having a clear idea of what can be included in the test.
Take Illinois CDL practice tests now
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) completion
The FMCSA requires you to complete an ELDT program if you are in the following categories:
- New applicant of Class B or Class A CDL
- Those who want to upgrade from Class B to Class A CDL
- Those who want to transport hazardous materials
This program must be conducted by certified providers, preparing drivers for safety protocol, vehicle handling, and operational skills. After completing both theory and practical training, you will receive a certificate to proceed with your CDL application.
Passing skills test
You can take the CDL skills test once you have had your CLP for at least 14 days. The test will assess your ability in the following areas:
- Vehicle inspection: Demonstrate your ability to inspect a vehicle for safe operation, satisfying the CDL pre-trip inspection checklist
- Basic control skills test: Perform controlled maneuvers such as reversing, parking, and navigating tight spaces
- On-the-road driving: The driving test takes place on the road to demonstrate how you drive, follow traffic rules, and handle the vehicle
Background check review
The Illinois Secretary of State will review your driving record within the last 10 years to determine your safety eligibility. All applicants must not have these major offenses:
- DUIs: Convictions for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Hit-and-run: Leaving the scene of an accident
- Reckless driving convictions: A disregard for public safety
- Multiple traffic violations such as speeding, erratic lane changes, or tailgating within a short period
A record with multiple offenses, licensed suspensions, or recovations can disqualify you during the review process. For more information on disqualifying offenses, refer to our post on Illinois CDL disqualifications.
FAQs
1. What is the age requirement for CDL in Illinois?
The age requirement to get a CDL in Illinois is as stated according to the type of driving you intend to operate:
- Intrastate (within Illinois): at least 18 years old
- Interstate (across state lines) or passenger transport: at least 21 years old.
2. What are Illinois CDL medical card requirements?
To apply for a CDL with non-excepted driving in Illinois, you must meet the following medical standards as set by the FMCSA to receive a medical card:
- Vision: A minimum of 20/40 acuity of vision in each eye
- Hearing: The ability to hear a whispered voice from 5 feet away
- Blood pressure: Must be within acceptable DOT limits
For more detailed requirements to obtain a medical card, you can check our post on CDL medical exam.
3. What is the CDL permit test Illinois requirements?
The following are the main requirements to get CLP in Illinois:
- At least 18 years old for an intrastate driving permit and 21 years old for an interstate driving permit.
- Posses a valid Illinois driver’s license
- Provide proof of presence and SSN
- Pass required written tests.
Final thoughts
Understanding the Illinois CDL requirements is the first crucial step to getting into a trucking career in Illinois smoothly. From medical examination eligibility to permit, training, and testing, all requirements have their own importance in ensuring safety on the road. By familiarizing yourself with these rules, you can navigate the whole process with confidence. Therefore, read our detailed list of requirements above and make sure you have documents prepared well in advance. Do not forget to utilize our free materials and practice tests by CDL Prep to better achieve success. Get started now and take the road tomorrow!
