Businesses and the economy rely on professional truck drivers to transport goods and materials safely and in a timely manner. Truck drivers often work with manufacturing plants, distribution centers and retail facilities. They must perform inspection of their vehicles and some may even perform preventative maintenance. Depending on their specific job, some truckers are responsible for planning their routes. Truck drivers often enjoy lives of independence and financial security.
The truck driver training program allows students to:
Prerequisites: At least 18 years old, show a current driver’s license with no outstanding or unpaid violations anywhere in the United States, meet the medical requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations or prove exempt status of not being subject to the regulations, meet the employment standards of the trucking industry.
| Class | Day/Times | Notes | Course Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois Class A CDL (160 HR) |
March 25-April 24 |
Prepare to pass the Illinois Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. |
TRK 060 5003 |
| Illinois Class A CDL (160 HR) |
April 29-June 2 |
Prepare to pass the Illinois Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. |
TRK 060 5004 |
| Illinois Class A CDL (160 HR) |
June 5-July 16 |
Prepare to pass the Illinois Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. |
TRK 060 1001 |
| Illinois Class A CDL (160 HR) |
July 22-Aug. 28 |
Prepare to pass the Illinois Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. |
TRK 060 1003 |
| Illinois Class A CDL (160 HR) |
Sept. 3-Oct. 2 |
Prepare to pass the Illinois Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. |
TRK 060 3001 |
| Illinois Class A CDL (160 HR) |
Oct. 7-Nov. 5 |
Prepare to pass the Illinois Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. |
TRK 060 3002 |
| Illinois Class A CDL (160 HR) |
Nov. 10-Dec. 12 |
Prepare to pass the Illinois Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. |
TRK 060 3003 |
For more information, please complete the Truck Driver Training Interest Form:
The requirements for this program will meet the requirements set by the state of Illinois. Those seeking a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), or truck driver training for another state may need to meet additional requirements set forth by that state.
Classroom Portion: The classroom portion of the truck driver training program is designed for people with no commercial driver experience. This training provides a basic orientation on commercial driver's license requirements. Concentration will be on rules, regulations, and other requirements necessary to prepare students for passing the written portion of the CDL examination. At this point in the program, students will need to complete the Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
Driving or Behind-the-Wheel Portion: This portion of the truck driver training program provides students with detailed knowledge of advanced operating practices for driving a commercial vehicle. This training will include information on federal/state rules and regulations. Students are expected to demonstrate the proper preparation, handling, safety, and driving skills necessary to pass the CDL examination. Activities will involve on-the-lot driving and over-the-road driving on city streets, highways and interstates. After this class, the student will take a test at the DMV.
Trucking jobs include tractor-trailer drivers, school bus drivers, city transit drivers, package delivery carriers, or over-the-road (OTR) drivers, among other possibilities. There are jobs available in the public and private sectors. Trucking plays a vital role in U.S. commerce. Hospitals, stores, farmers, emergency services and more need products and equipment delivered safely and on time.
Trucks transport most of the freight in the U.S., and demand for truck drivers is expected to rise as households and businesses increase spending and demand for goods, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Trucking allows the opportunity to choose local, regional or national jobs with long-haul options available to travel the country.
Do you own or manage a company that uses straight trucks, buses, box trucks, dump trucks, snowplows, or tractor-trailers? Kish can work with you to create a plan for your organization. Call 815-825-9547 or email kccdl@kish.edu to see how your workers can receive the training needed to help your business be successful.
Financial aid and payment plans are not available to cover Kish’s Truck Driver Training program costs. Funding is available to those who are eligible and approved from:
Kish offers online entry-level driver training (ELDT) for hazardous materials. The course prepares students to fulfill stated-administered knowledge requirements for hazardous materials (H) endorsements.
$4,000 for the course is due two weeks before class starts. The program cost does not include fees for:
The physical and drug test should be completed two weeks prior to class.
To learn more about the program, fill out the Truck Driver Training interest form.
To register for the program, fill out the Truck Driver Training registration form.
The Truck Driver Training program is designed to prepare students to apply for licensure or certification in Illinois. Program completion may not meet educational requirements for licensure or certification in a state other than Illinois.
Linda Mason served 26 years on the Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees and has dedicated many years of volunteer work to the local community. Kishwaukee College recognized Mason and her service with the John C. Roberts Community Service Award on Saturday at Kish's Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony.
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