Illinois CDL Resources

Official resources to check first

Illinois CDL resources are managed by the Secretary of State (ilsos.gov). Verify current requirements at ilsos.gov.

No direct CDL handbook link is listed for Illinois yet. Visit the Illinois Secretary of State — Driver Services website and look for a "CDL Manual," "Commercial Driver Handbook," or similar link.

Before you apply or renew

These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the Illinois Secretary of State — Driver Services before beginning the application process.

• Verify your CDL class (A, B, or C) matches the vehicles you intend to operate.
• Check whether you need endorsements (HazMat, Tanker, Passenger, School Bus, Doubles/Triples) and confirm state testing requirements for each.
• Confirm you hold a valid DOT medical certificate (MCSA-5876) and that it is current before applying or renewing.
• If you are a new CDL applicant, confirm whether ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) applies to your situation — see the ELDT overview.
• Gather required documents — identity, residency, and any existing license — before visiting a testing location.
• Confirm current fees and testing appointment availability directly with the Illinois Secretary of State — Driver Services.

Medical certificate

CDL holders operating in interstate commerce must carry a current DOT medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner on the FMCSA National Registry. Illinois state requirements for submitting or updating medical certification vary — check the Illinois Secretary of State — Driver Services website for the current procedure.

For Illinois-specific medical certificate submission procedures, start at the Illinois Secretary of State — Driver Services website .

• Learn about medical card requirements: DOT Medical Card Explained
• Track expiration dates: Medical Card Expiration Tracker

ELDT — Entry-Level Driver Training

Federal ELDT requirements apply to new Class A and Class B CDL applicants and to certain endorsements. Training must be completed at a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). The Illinois Secretary of State — Driver Services does not administer ELDT — training is completed at a registered provider before you schedule the skills test.

• Find an ELDT provider: FMCSA Training Provider Registry
• See who needs ELDT: Who Needs ELDT?
• ELDT for small fleets and owner-operators: ELDT for Small Fleets

Federal references

• FMCSA — CDL Overview
• 49 CFR Part 383 — CDL Standards
• FMCSA — Medical Qualifications
• What Is a CDL? — Federal Standards Overview