NUSSBAUM
TRUCKING
ACADEMY

You must complete three main steps:

• Pass a multi-part test to obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
• Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered provider (exceptions exist for veterans and farmers).
• Pass the Illinois CDL skills & driving test.

If pursuing your CDL full-time, this process takes approximately 4-6 weeks (not including the time needed to enroll in a CDL school, which has its own set of requirements). If pursuing your CDL part-time, this process can take 9-12 weeks.

Requirements for new CDL applicants: 

• Must be 21 years old to drive interstate (outside Illinois) or 18 years old to drive intrastate (within Illinois).
• Have a valid Illinois driver’s license (must be valid during the full year in which you hold your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
• Show proof of legal presence, such as a passport or birth certificate.
• Self-certify your medical driving status.
• Pay the appropriate CLP fee.
• Pass all required testing to obtain your CLP (valid for one year).
• Hold the CLP for a minimum of 14 days before taking your CDL test.
• Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (exceptions exist for veterans and farmers).
• Pass all required testing to obtain your Illinois CDL.
• For more information, visit the Illinois Secretary of State website.

Source: ilsos.gov 

Nope! You may transfer your CDL to Illinois (if applying for a CDL of equal or lesser class. E.g., you can’t transfer a Class B into Illinois as a Class A). For more information, please visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website. 

Essentially, yes. The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) requires that new drivers complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered provider IF:

• They are first-time applicants for a Class A or Class B CDL.
• They want to upgrade their Class B license to Class A.
• They want to add a Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazmat (H) endorsement to their license.

There are exceptions, such as farmers or veterans. For more information, please visit the Illinois Secretary of State website. 

Source: ilsos.gov

Right here! Click here to download the Illinois Secretary of State CDL/CLP Study Guide. 

The timeline may vary depending on which CDL school you attend. At the Nussbaum Trucking Academy, full-time students can earn their CDL in as little as 5 weeks. Part-time students should allow 9 weeks. (Note: this does not include the time needed to apply and register for CDL school).

• Week 1: classroom time – study for and take the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) exam. Topics include commercial driving regulations, performing inspections, hours-of-service (HOS), etc.
• Week 2-4: behind-the-wheel training: inspecting the rig, practice driving (road and skills course), backing techniques, etc.
• Week 5: study for and take the CDL exam at the Illinois Secretary of State’s facility.
• Week 6: and you’re off!

Note: this is the full-time schedule. Part-time students will complete the same sequence, just double the time (2 weeks for the CLP, 6 weeks for behind the wheel, etc.). 

The total cost of the program is approximately $5,065. This includes tuition ($4,900), a drug screen/physical exam (around $115), and a CDL permit fee ($50). During your enrollment, Heartland will inform you of financial assistance opportunities, as well as the program requirements and expectations. 

You may choose to finance your education through a payment plan or student loan assistance. Ask your Heartland enrollment advisor for more information. 

To get started, download Heartland’s “Get Rolling” document and complete all the instructions. Then, you may contact Heartland (309) 268-8448) to schedule your registration appointment. 

Unfortunately, no. Our school can only accept students who are seeking an Illinois CDL. You must attend CDL school in the state in which your CDL will be issued.

You get the best of both worlds – Heartland’s award-winning learning environment and scholarship opportunities + Nussbaum’s industry and driving expertise. Your instructors are highly skilled professional drivers with years of experience in trucking.

The Trucking Academy is located at Heartland Community College in Normal, Illinois – just a few miles up the road from Nussbaum. Classroom sessions take place at Heartland; behind-the-wheel training takes place on Nussbaum property and on the road in central Illinois.