If you’re considering CDL training in Chicago, one of your biggest questions is probably: How much does it cost, and how can I pay for it? The cost of truck driving school can vary widely, but don’t let tuition fees stop you from pursuing a trucking career. There are many financing options and assistance programs available to make CDL training affordable. In this post, we’ll break down typical CDL training costs and explore ways to finance your training – including grants, scholarships, and company-sponsored CDL programs.
How Much Does CDL Training Cost?
The cost of CDL training programs in Chicago typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on the school and program length. Some community colleges and shorter programs may cost $3,000-$5,000, while private CDL schools or comprehensive CDL programs can be $6,000-$8,000 or more. The key is to compare tuition rates and understand what’s included in the cost.
Some CDL schools in Illinois bundle expenses like
If you’re considering CDL training in Chicago, one of your biggest questions is probably: How much does it cost, and how can I pay for it? The cost of truck driving school can vary widely, but don’t let tuition fees stop you from pursuing a trucking career. There are many financing options and assistance programs available to make CDL training affordable. In this post, we’ll break down typical CDL training costs and explore ways to finance your training – including grants, scholarships, and company-sponsored CDL programs.
Full – Time vs. Part – Time Training Costs
- Full-Time Programs (4-6 weeks): Usually have a flat tuition rate and are the fastest way to earn your CDL license in Chicago.
- Part-Time or Evening Programs: May cost slightly more due to extended training hours but allow you to keep working while training.
At Alpha Truck Driving School, we offer affordable CDL training in Chicago with flexible payment options and financing assistance to help students manage their tuition costs.
Financing Your CDL Training
If you’re worried about covering the cost of CDL training, there are multiple ways to finance your education.
Personal Savings or Payment Plans
Some students pay for truck driving school out-of-pocket using savings. However, many schools—including Alpha Truck Driving School—offer flexible payment plans that allow students to pay in installments rather than all at once. Some trucking schools also partner with financing companies to offer student loans for CDL training.
Before committing to a CDL financing plan, be sure to ask:
- What is the interest rate?
- Are there hidden fees?
- What are the repayment terms?
Workforce Grants (WIOA – Free CDL Training in Illinois)
If you’re unemployed, underemployed, or changing careers, you may qualify for free CDL training in Chicago through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants. WIOA is a federally funded program that covers the cost of training for high-demand careers like truck driving. Several CDL schools in Illinois partner with WIOA to offer full or partial tuition assistance.
To check if you qualify, visit an Illinois workforce center or ask Alpha Truck Driving School about WIOA CDL training funding.
CDL Training Scholarships
Some CDL training scholarships are available for:
- Military veterans
- Women entering trucking (e.g., Women In Trucking Foundation)
- Low-income students
It’s worth checking with the CDL school admissions office to see if scholarships are available.
GI Bill for Veterans
If you served in the military, the GI Bill® could help pay for CDL school. Many CDL training schools in Chicago are approved for GI Bill funding, covering tuition, materials, and even living expenses while training.
At Alpha Truck Driving School, we help veterans use their GI Bill benefits for CDL training.
Company – Sponsored CDL Training
Some trucking companies will pay for your CDL training if you agree to work for them after graduation. This is called company-sponsored CDL training. You receive free CDL training upfront, but you must sign a contract to drive for the company for 6 months to 1 year.
- Pros: No upfront tuition cost, guaranteed job after training.
- Cons: Work commitment—if you leave early, you may have to repay the tuition.
Some well-known trucking companies that offer company-sponsored CDL training include Swift, Schneider, CRST, and Prime Inc.. Always read the fine print before committing.
Other CDL Trainign Cost to Consider
Even with tuition covered, additional expenses may include:
- Permit & License Fees: Illinois charges around $50 for a CDL permit and $60 for the CDL license.
- DOT Physical & Drug Test: Some CDL schools include this, but if not, it may cost $50-$100.
- Endorsement Tests: Additional fees for HazMat, Tanker, or Doubles/Triples endorsements.
- Housing & Transportation: If you choose a local CDL school in Chicago or Addison, you can save on housing by commuting from home.
- Lost Wages: If you have to quit a job or reduce work hours while training, account for temporary lost income.
Is CDL Training Worth the Cost?
While CDL training tuition may seem expensive, consider this:
- New CDL drivers in Chicago earn $50,000+ in their first year.
- Experienced truck drivers can make $70,000-$100,000+ annually.
- Many drivers recover their CDL training costs within the first few months of working.
Investing in CDL training is an investment in a high-paying, in-demand career. With financing options, scholarships, and grants, there are ways to make CDL school affordable.
At Alpha Truck Driving School, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to getting your CDL license. That’s why we offer flexible financing options, WIOA funding assistance, and job placement support to help students start their trucking careers without financial stress.
Start Your CDL Training Today
Now that you know how much CDL training costs and the financial aid options available, take the next step toward your trucking career.
- Apply for CDL training at Alpha Truck Driving School
- Call us at (to learn about financing options
- Visit our Chicago-area location and get started today
With the right financing plan, CDL training is more affordable than you think. Get started today and be on the road to a successful truck driving career
