Illinois CDL Handbook 2024

Are you interested in driving commercial vehicles, but need help preparing for the required Illinois CDL exam? The Illinois Driver Services Department (DSD) issues its own official CDL Manual.

This manual is specifically designed to introduce prospective commercial drivers to the various requirements to become a CDL license holder. The manual also includes a study chart, which details the sections relevant to each CDL class and their associated endorsements.

Will the IL CDL Manual Prepare You for the Exam

Though the Illinois CDL Manual will help you begin preparing for the for the CDL exam, the only way to know for sure is to put your knowledge to the test. A practice test is the ultimate study tool, and we have many to help you prepare for your CDL exam. We offer free Illinois CDL practice tests for all CDL classes and endorsements. They’re being made available as a proven study tool to be used in partnership with the manual to help ensure you succeed.

Information Covered in the Manual

In addition to general information about the Illinois CDL licensing process and how to operate a commercial vehicle safely, the Illinois Commercial Driver’s License manual provides detailed information that is specific to the class of CDL you are pursuing. You will get also get detailed information on the restrictions and fees to ensure you have everything you need to pursue a CDL process.

Further information is provided about the special endorsements required to drive combination vehicles, trucks with tanks or hazardous materials, and vehicles that carry passengers. The CDL Manual is broken into convenient sections.

• Introduction to Illinois CDL
• Driving Safely
• Transporting Cargo Safely
• Transporting Passengers
• Air Brakes
• Combination Vehicles
• Doubles and Triples
• Tank Vehicles
• Hazardous Materials
• School Bus
• Charter Bus
• Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
• Basic Vehicle Control Skills
• Drive/Road Testing
• Special CDL Information & Programs