Illinois CDL Test Locations 2026: Full Guide

📅 Updated July 2026 📌 Source: Illinois Secretary of State ⏱ 6 min read

Both Illinois CDL tests run through the Secretary of State, but the skills test has a scheduling quirk worth understanding before you call.

In This Guide

Knowledge Test Locations

Illinois CDL knowledge tests are taken at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility. The test is computer-based and given in English, with an audio format available.

Skills Test Locations and Scheduling

Illinois skills/drive tests are scheduled by phone through the Secretary of State's designated scheduling line. You can call ahead of your 14-day CLP hold period, but you cannot select a test date that falls within that window itself.

Your Own Vehicle Requirement

You must bring your own registered, insured vehicle appropriate for the CDL class you're testing for. The Secretary of State does not provide a vehicle for testing.

A Special Vehicle Case

Applicants holding an out-of-country license face a specific requirement: they must take their skills/drive test in an Illinois farm-plated tractor/trailer, confirmed directly on the Secretary of State's official site. This is a narrow edge case, but worth knowing if it applies to you.

Study Before You Schedule Your Test

Wherever you test, the knowledge requirements are the same statewide. Practice free now.

Start Illinois CDL Practice Tests Full CDL Process Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I take the knowledge test?
At an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility, in English with audio available.
Where do I take the skills test?
At a Secretary of State-administered site, using your own vehicle.
How do I schedule the skills test?
By calling the Secretary of State's designated scheduling line.
Can I schedule before my 14-day hold ends?
Yes, but not for a date that falls within that 14-day window.
What special requirement applies to out-of-country license holders?
They must test in an Illinois farm-plated tractor/trailer.

Sources: Illinois Secretary of State. Last verified July 2026.