CDL Jobs with No Experience in Illinois
New to truck driving? Many carriers in Illinois hire CDL drivers with no experience. Here's how to land your first CDL job and start your career on the road.
Estimated CDL salary
$1,100–$1,700/week
Based on recent CDL job trends
Annual range
$57,000–$88,000
Per year, all CDL roles
Open jobs
45+
CDL jobs currently available in Illinois
Top hiring companies
CWS Dedicated ServiceMcLeod ExpressHirschbach Motor LinesK&J Trucking
How to Get Your First CDL Job in Illinois
Breaking into the trucking industry in Illinois is easier than you might think. Many large carriers offer paid CDL training programs and are actively looking for new drivers.
- Get your CDL permit — study the CDL manual and pass the written test at your local DMV
- Complete CDL training — enroll in a truck driving school or carrier-sponsored program
- Apply to entry-level positions — many companies hire drivers fresh out of CDL school
- Consider company-sponsored training — some carriers pay for your CDL in exchange for a commitment
Companies That Hire CDL Drivers with No Experience
Several national and regional carriers operating in Illinois specialize in training and hiring new CDL drivers. These companies typically offer structured training programs, assigned mentors, and competitive starting pay for first-year drivers.
- Large national carriers — often have the most robust training programs
- Regional fleets — good balance of training and home time for new drivers
- LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) carriers — many hire entry-level drivers for local routes
- Dedicated contract carriers — predictable routes ideal for learning
Tips to Get Hired Faster
Standing out as a no-experience CDL applicant takes preparation and persistence.
- Get your CDL permit before applying — shows initiative to recruiters
- Keep a clean driving record — MVR checks are standard in trucking
- Be flexible on job type — starting with OTR or regional builds experience fastest
- Apply to multiple companies — cast a wide net and compare offers
- Highlight transferable skills — customer service, time management, and safety awareness matter
Explore CDL jobs in Illinois
Latest CDL jobs in Illinois
CDL A Owner Operator
CWS Dedicated ServiceMatteson, IL1w ago
Regional
CDL A Regional Truck Driver
McLeod ExpressIllinois statewide1w ago
Regional
CDL A Owner Operator
CWS Dedicated ServiceO'fallon, IL1w ago
Regional
CDL A Regional Truck Driver
McLeod ExpressPekin, IL1w ago
Regional
CDL A Owner Operator
CWS Dedicated ServiceCottage Hills, IL1w ago
Regional
CDL A Regional Truck Driver
McLeod ExpressAllentown, IL1w ago
Regional
CDL A Regional Truck Driver
McLeod ExpressMorton, IL1w ago
Regional
Class A Owner Operator End Dump
Feldspar TruckingJacksonville, IL1w ago
Owner Operator
CDL A Regional Truck Driver
McLeod ExpressCoal City, IL2w ago
Regional
CDL A Regional Truck Driver
McLeod ExpressEast Peoria, IL2w ago
Regional
Frequently Asked Questions
Start your CDL career in Illinois today. Browse entry-level positions now.
Browse CDL Jobs in Illinois