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Cdl Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

160 Driving Academy

CDL A Instructor Trainer

Joliet, IL

$28 - $30/hr

At 160 Driving Academy, we are hiring experienced truck drivers who want to become CDL instructors. We provide structured training and support to prepare you for this role. With 150 locations across ...

160 Driving Academy

CDL A Instructor Trainer

Joliet, IL · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

At 160 Driving Academy, we are hiring experienced truck drivers who want to become CDL instructors. We provide structured training and support to prepare you for this role. With 150 locations across ...

160 Driving Academy

CDL A Instructor Trainer

Joliet, IL · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

At 160 Driving Academy, we are hiring experienced truck drivers who want to become CDL instructors. We provide structured training and support to prepare you for this role. With 150 locations across ...

NEXUS LANE LLC

CDL Onboarding Instructor Needed

Aurora, IL

$21.25 - $27.50/hr

if you have at least 10+ years of experience driving a Class A Commercial Motor Vehicle and are ... for an Onboarding Instructor to work part-time (1 or 2 days a week) to work with drivers with ...

NEXUS LANE LLC

CDL Onboarding Instructor Needed

Aurora, IL

$21.25 - $27.50/hr

if you have at least 10+ years of experience driving a Class A Commercial Motor Vehicle and are ... for an Onboarding Instructor to work part-time (1 or 2 days a week) to work with drivers with ...

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Shuttle Spotter Driver

Joliet, IL · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

We are looking for Professional drivers to join our family. You will be assigned to a dedicated account. Join us Today, We are waiting to talk to you! Proud Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We ...

US LBM Holdings, LLC

CDL Driver

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$25/hr

A Brief Overview The CDL Driver I is responsible for the safe, efficient transportation of materials to various job sites and other locations. This role requires maintaining a Class A or B Driver ...

US LBM Holdings LLC

CDL Driver

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$25/hr

A Brief Overview The CDL Driver I is responsible for the safe, efficient transportation of materials to various job sites and other locations. This role requires maintaining a Class A or B Driver ...

Hines

CDL Driver

Wheaton, IL

$25/hr

A Brief Overview The CDL Driver I is responsible for the safe, efficient transportation of materials to various job sites and other locations. This role requires maintaining a Class A or B Driver ...

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All JobsCdl Instructor JobsCdl Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cdl Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$25

$35

How much do cdl instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdl instructor in Chicago, IL is $25.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common challenges CDL Instructors face when training new drivers, and how can they be addressed?

CDL Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among students, language barriers, and ensuring that all trainees understand and adhere to safety regulations. Managing a classroom with diverse backgrounds requires strong communication and adaptability. To address these challenges, instructors typically use a combination of hands-on demonstrations, clear instructions, and individualized coaching. Additionally, fostering a supportive learning environment helps students feel comfortable asking questions and making progress at their own pace.

Can you make money as a driving instructor?

A CDL instructor can earn income through teaching commercial drivers, with earnings depending on experience, location, and the number of students taught. Many instructors work full-time or part-time, and some may supplement income by offering private lessons or working for driving schools. Certification and a good reputation can also influence earning potential.

How much money do CDL instructors make?

CDL instructors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work full-time schedules and may need certifications such as a commercial driver's license and instructor credentials.

What is the difference between Cdl Instructor vs Truck Driver?

AspectCdl InstructorTruck Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Instructor CertificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining schools, classrooms, driving rangesOn the road, freight yards, delivery routes
Employer & Industry UsageTraining institutions, trucking schoolsTransportation companies, freight carriers

While both roles require a CDL license, a Cdl Instructor focuses on teaching and training new drivers in a classroom or controlled environment, whereas a Truck Driver operates commercial vehicles on the road for transportation and delivery. The instructor role emphasizes education and safety training, while the driver role emphasizes logistics and operational skills.

How much do truck driver instructors make in the US?

Truck driver instructors in the US typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often hold commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and may teach at driving schools or training programs, with some earning additional pay for overtime or specialized instruction.

What Does a CDL Instructor Do?

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required for drivers who want to operate trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. A CDL instructor teaches students how to operate these vehicles and pass the CDL exam. In this role, you work with students both in the classroom and on the road. Your job duties focus on teaching them to operate a vehicle safely in a structured area as well as on public roads, and to learn the skills necessary to pass their state’s CDL exam. CDL instructors must earn certification before they begin teaching at a truck driving school or vocational college.

What are the requirements to be a CDL instructor?

To become a CDL instructor, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license with the appropriate endorsements, several years of driving experience, and a clean driving record. Additionally, they often must complete a certified instructor training program and pass a state or federal instructor exam. Some states may also require background checks and CPR certification.

What are CDL Instructors?

CDL Instructors are professional trainers who teach students how to safely operate commercial motor vehicles, such as trucks and buses, in order to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). They provide both classroom instruction on regulations, safety, and vehicle systems, as well as hands-on training behind the wheel. CDL Instructors are responsible for preparing students to pass written and skills exams required by state and federal agencies. Their role is crucial in ensuring new drivers are competent and compliant with transportation laws.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CDL Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CDL Instructor, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), extensive driving experience, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial vehicle operation, Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, and training aids or simulators is essential. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are key soft skills for effectively teaching diverse learners. These skills ensure that future commercial drivers are trained safely and competently, supporting public safety and regulatory compliance.
More about Cdl Instructor jobs
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What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cdl Instructor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cdl Instructor job openings:
Cdl Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cdl Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,111 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
CDL A Instructor Trainer

CDL A Instructor Trainer

160 Driving Academy

Joliet, IL

$28 - $30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

160 Driving Academy rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description

Are you an experienced CDL A Driver looking for a local position where you can use your skills to train the next generation of truck drivers?


At 160 Driving Academy, we are hiring experienced truck drivers who want to become CDL instructors. We provide structured training and support to prepare you for this role.
With 150 locations across 43 states, we offer career stability and relocation opportunities within our network of schools.


Responsibilities
  • Teach students CDL A driving skills through classroom instruction and hands-on training.
  • Provide step-by-step guidance in pre-trip inspections, yard maneuvers, and road driving.
  • Ensure students understand CDL testing standards and are fully prepared for the exam.
  • Promote safety, professionalism, and industry best practices in all training.
  • Track student attendance and progress, providing additional support when needed.
  • Maintain proper documentation, including student evaluations and training records.
  • Work collaboratively with other instructors to provide an effective training experience.
What We Offer
  • Local, steady work schedule with no overnight travel.
  • Hourly pay based on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, PTO, and paid holidays.
  • Onboarding and training to help you transition from driver to instructor.
  • Career stability and relocation opportunities.
  • An opportunity to make a lasting impact by training the next generation of truck drivers.
Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)
  • Experience in mentoring, coaching, or training drivers.
  • Driver Training Instructor certification (If required by the state, we provide guidance and support to help you obtain this certification.)
  • Knowledge of FMCSA and state regulations related to CDL training and testing.
  • Ability to adapt instruction for different learning styles.

At 160 Driving Academy, we are committed to helping truck drivers become skilled instructors so they can pass on their knowledge and support new drivers entering the industry.

Apply today to start your career as a CDL A Instructor Trainer.


Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

160 Driving Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, disability/handicap status, or any other legally protected characteristic.


Requirements

Requirements
  • Must reside in Illinois or have a residence in place for relocation.
  • Valid CDL Class A license with a minimum of 24 months of verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience.
  • Safe driving record and ability to pass DOT physical and drug/alcohol screening.
  • Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to mentor students.
  • Basic computer skills to track student progress and scheduling.

What 160 Driving Academy employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

160 Driving Academy logo

About 160 Driving Academy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Given the massive shortage of truck drivers in the U.S., the 160 Driving Academy has become a strategic supplier of Human Capital to some of the largest companies in the United States. At the same time, working with government leaders, the 160 Driving Academy has become the largest job creator in numerous cities and states. Run by highly experienced leaders from industry and organizations like Teach for America, the 160 Driving Academy is seeking leaders who are driven, energetic and personable to lead its newest Branch locations.

Industry

Business schools and computer and management training

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Peoria, IL, US

Year founded

2012

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