Admissions and Payment
How Much Does CDL Training Cost?
If you’re considering truck driving school, one of your biggest questions is probably “How much does CDL training cost?”
There is no single cost that applies to every CDL student. The price of CDL training can depend on the program you select, your individual training needs, and the payment or tuition assistance options for which you may qualify.
When comparing CDL school costs, it is also important to look beyond the advertised tuition price. Consider what the program includes, the amount of hands-on instruction you receive, the quality of the training, and the career resources available after graduation.
At Progressive Truck Driving School, students receive classroom education and practical commercial driving instruction designed to prepare them for their CDL and a career in the trucking industry.
You can review our Training Overview to see what students learn during CDL training.
Admission Requirements
- You must be at least 18 years of age to drive a commercial motor vehicle within the state lines & at least 21 years of age to drive a commercial motor vehicle across state lines, carry hazardous materials or transport any passengers.
- You cannot have more than one driver’s license, and your driving privileges cannot be suspended, revoked, cancelled or disqualified.
- You must provide the school with a proof of valid driver license and a copy of recent Motor Vehicle Record.
- You must meet medical requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations or prove that you are not subject to regulations.
- You must be able to pass written tests in English in order to obtain the Instruction Permit at the Secretary of State Office.
- To receive an Illinois driver’s license or ID card, you must provide a minimum of three (3) acceptable forms of identification: name, date of birth, Illinois residency, social security number and signature for comparison, along with a proof of legal presence in the United States.
The above requirements are in addition to the requirements listed in the Secretary of State Study Guide and the Progressive Driver Training Manual.
Ways to Pay for CDL Training
Paying for CDL school does not necessarily mean covering the entire cost upfront. Depending on your eligibility and circumstances, different options may be available to help make CDL training more affordable.
Potential payment and tuition assistance options can include:
- Installment payment options
- Qualifying state grants
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding for eligible students
- GI Bill® education benefits for eligible veterans
- Scholarships when available
Because eligibility requirements differ, prospective students should speak with admissions about their circumstances and determine which options may apply.
Installment Payment Options
For students paying for CDL training themselves, Progressive offers installment payment options without finance charges.
Being able to spread tuition payments over time may make professional CDL training more manageable for students who are changing careers, working while attending school, or paying for training without outside funding.
WIOA and State Funding for CDL Training
Eligible students may be able to receive workforce development assistance for CDL training through qualifying state grants or the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Progressive Truck Driving School is a WIOA-certified training provider and accepts qualifying state grants.
Eligibility and funding are not automatic and can vary based on the applicant and applicable workforce program. Prospective students interested in workforce assistance should investigate their eligibility as early as possible in the enrollment process.
Veterans Education Benefits
Eligible veterans may be able to use GI Bill® education benefits toward approved CDL training.
Progressive Truck Driving School is approved to accept GI Bill® education benefits for eligible students. The benefits available to an individual student can depend on eligibility and the applicable VA education program.
Veterans interested in becoming professional commercial drivers should verify their benefits and discuss their training options before enrolling.
CDL Training Scholarships
Scholarship opportunities may also be available periodically.
Availability, eligibility requirements, and award amounts can change, so prospective students should ask the admissions team whether any current scholarship opportunities are available when they are preparing to enroll.
Consider the Value of CDL Training, Not Just the Price
Finding affordable CDL training is important, but the lowest tuition price does not always represent the best value.
When comparing CDL schools, consider what your tuition provides.
Quality CDL training should help you develop practical skills such as vehicle inspections, backing, maneuvering, safe vehicle control, highway driving, and defensive driving—not simply prepare you to complete a test.
You should also consider career support. Progressive provides Job Placement Assistance to graduates at no additional charge, helping qualified graduates pursue employment opportunities in the trucking industry.
Before choosing a school based solely on cost, compare the training, hands-on experience, support, and career preparation included in the program.
Talk to Progressive About CDL Training Costs and Payment Options
Understanding tuition is an important part of deciding whether you’re ready to begin CDL training. Our admissions team can help you understand current program costs, payment arrangements, and qualifying tuition assistance options that may be available.
Contact Progressive Truck Driving School to discuss CDL training costs, enrollment, payment options, and your next steps toward becoming a professional commercial driver.
“GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.”
Equal Opportunity Statement
Progressive Truck Driving School Inc. is committed to equal opportunity in training, development, placement, and financial assistance for all students. Progressive offers equal opportunity to all students regardless of sex, age, race, color, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or handicap.
FAQs
How much does CDL school cost?
The cost of CDL school varies depending on the training provider, program, and individual circumstances. Students should compare not only tuition but also the amount of classroom instruction, hands-on driving experience, equipment access, career support, and other services included with training.
Can I make payments on CDL training?
Progressive offers installment payment options without finance charges. Students should speak with admissions about current tuition and available payment arrangements for their chosen program.
Can WIOA help pay for CDL school?
Eligible students may qualify for CDL training assistance through WIOA or qualifying state workforce programs. Progressive is a WIOA-certified training provider and accepts qualifying state grants, but eligibility and funding availability vary.
Can veterans use GI Bill benefits for CDL training?
Eligible veterans may be able to use GI Bill® education benefits for approved CDL training. Progressive is approved to accept GI Bill® education benefits for eligible students. Individual benefit eligibility should be verified before enrollment.
How long does CDL training take?
CDL training duration varies based on the program, schedule, student progress, licensing requirements, and testing availability. Visit our Training Overview to learn more about Progressive’s CDL training and what students can expect.
