Trucking Jobs in Illinois

With a long history as a hub of transportation given its central location in the U.S., Illinois can be a great place to establish a career in commercial trucking.

No matter where you reside in Illinois, ample access to the interstate system and proximity to major modes of transportation means you’re likely near some major trucking routes. Learn all about truck driver jobs in Illinois, including pay, job growth, and how to get your CDL in Illinois.

How Much Do Truck Drivers Make in IL?

In 2020, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Illinois made a mean annual salary of $52,270, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The pay you can earn as a truck driver varies based on several factors, including years of safe commercial driving experience, type of freight hauled, and length of your route.

Salaries also depend on where in Illinois you work, with drivers in several metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas earning slightly more or less than the state average:

• Chicago-Naperville-Elgin: $54,280
• Rockford: $48,450
• Bloomington: $54,260
• Northwest Illinois Nonmetropolitan Area: $54,270
• South Illinois Nonmetropolitan Area: $44,230

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Featured Illinois Trucking Jobs

K&B Transportation

OTR Drivers Earn Up To $2,000+ Per Week On Top Weeks! Hiring Drivers Nationwide

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K&B Transportation - Hiring Midwest OTR Drivers

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K&B Transportation - Hiring Road Warrior OTR Drivers

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Paschall - South Central Regional

Home Weekly Opportunities!!! Up to $0.65 CPM Starting Base Pay!

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Paschall Truck Lines - Midwest Dedicated

Start at $0.70 Base and $1,450 Weekly Pay Protection!

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Paschall Truck Lines - Solo & Team Runs

CDL-A Solos Start up to $0.70 CPM base pay, Teams start at $0.75 CPM. NEW Veteran Appreciation Pay!

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Paschall Truck Lines - Southeast Regional

Apply Today With Paschall Truck Lines - Southeast Regional Up to $0.70 CPM starting base pay!

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Schneider

Schneider has one of the widest selections of Class A CDL truck driving jobs in the industry. Apply now!

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Truck Driving Job Growth in IL

Due to an increased demand for goods, the BLS estimates that truck driving opportunities in the U.S. will increase by 2%, or 30,600 jobs, through 2029. While this is slower than average growth, it doesn’t consider open trucking roles from unfulfilled positions or turnover as truck drivers leave the profession.

In particular, the Chicago metro area boasts the third-highest employment level of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in the country, with 53,560 drivers.

Trucking Companies Hiring in Illinois

Reputable trucking companies are frequently looking for skilled truck drivers in Illinois. These companies have recent job postings for qualified truck drivers:

Brite Logistics

• Jobs: OTR Drivers, Team Drivers, Owner-Operator Drivers

NFI Industries

• Jobs: Company Drivers, Owner-Operators

Ryder

• available: Truck Driver – Flatbed, Team Truck Driver

R+L Carriers

• Jobs: Fuel Tanker Truck Driver, Linehaul Truck Driver

FedEx Freight

• Jobs: Road Driver, City Driver

AMCAN Freight Lines

• Jobs: Semi Truck Driver, Long Haul Car Hauler/Truck Driver

CPC Logistics

• Jobs: Local Truck Driver, Local Seasonal Truck Driver

How to Get a Truck Driving Job in Illinois

Though truck drivers are in high demand, you need to follow certain steps and meet several requirements before landing a job. The process begins with getting your commercial driver’s license (CDL). The below steps can help you map out the route to your truck driving career.

Step 1: Decide What Class of CDL You Want to Pursue

There are three main CDL classifications you can choose from, depending on what type of vehicle you plan to drive:

• CDL Class A is for multiple vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) or more than 26,000 pounds, if the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the tow vehicle is over 10,000 pounds.
• CDL Class B is for a single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds, provided the vehicle it’s towing is no more than 10,000 pounds.
• CDL Class C is for a single vehicle with a GVWR between 16,001 and 26,000 pounds.

Step 2: Attend a Reputable CDL Training Program in Illinois

Once you decide on your CDL Class, search for a training program that provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to obtain your CDL. Comprehensive programs include both classroom and hands-on training.

Beginning in February 2022, new commercial driver’s license applicants must attend an approved CDL training program listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Training Provider Registry.

Step 3: Pass the CDL Knowledge and Skill Examinations

To take the tests (including any CDL endorsements), you must meet the below CDL requirements in Illinois:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a valid Illinois CDL or non-CDL license as a base license
• Provide Proof of Legal Presence in the U.S.
• Self-certify your interstate or intrastate medical driving status

Once you pass the written tests, you are issued a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), which you must hold for 14 days before taking your skills/drive test.

Step 4: Apply to Illinois Trucking Jobs

With your CDL in hand, you can find your first trucking jobs in Illinois by researching trucking companies and browsing current truck driver job openings.

Truck Driver Resources in Illinois

For Illinois-specific information on becoming a truck driver and support and guidance to help you succeed in your truck driving career, check out these resources:

Illinois Driver Services Commercial Driver’s License Resources provides information on the state’s CDL requirements, including training and education.

Illinois CDL Commercial Driver’s License Study Guide is a comprehensive study guide to help you pass the CDL exams.

Illinois Trucking Association advocates for the trucking industry and provides guidance around the regulations for owning a trucking company, which may be especially helpful for owner-operators.

Illinois Trucking Association Facebook Page provides resources, news, and updates about trucking in Illinois and networking opportunities for truck drivers.

Truck Driving Jobs Near Me

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