Truck Driver Training

Truck driving is one of the fastest-growing industries today. There is a constant demand for over-the-road drivers. It is one of the few occupations where students who complete training are almost certain to go to work immediately. Most receive job offers prior to completion of the course.

The Rend Lake College Truck Driver Training Program has trained over 1,200 drivers since 1990. This program is perfect for the person who may be unemployed or is seeking a higher-paying job. Short-term training is designed for individuals with little or no commercial driving experience.

Students receive hands-on training from experienced instructors in newer model tractor-trailers. A low student-to-instructor ratio means more personalized instruction. Individuals who complete the program receive a Commercial Driver’s License.

As of February 7, 2022, and Pursuant to 49 CFR Part 380 Subpart F, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration mandated that all people wanting to earn a Class A CDL or a Class B CDL for the first time, or upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL must go through the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an approved provider of which Rend Lake is designated.

Special Admission Requirements –

Current Illinois Driver’s License
Intrastate students must be at least 18 years of age; interstate students must be at least 21 years of age
Able to meet federal Department of Transportation physical / drug screen requirements using a DOT-certified physician designated by Rend Lake College
Provide motor vehicle record documentation from a local Secretary of State facility

Degrees & Certificates in Truck Driver Training

TRUCK DRIVER TRAINING - Certificate

TRUCK DRIVER TRAINING - Certificate

This certificate is designed to prepare students for a career as a Truck Driver. Career opportunities exist in the field of truck driving, including intrastate and interstate. Learning will occur in the classroom and in a tractor-trailer. The Illinois Secretary of State’s Commercial Driver’s License Pre-Trip, Skills and Road Examinations will be administered.

The curriculum for this program has been developed to meet the licensing requirements for the State of Illinois. It is not determined whether the curriculum meets licensing requirements for any other states.

► Total = 7 Credit Hours

First Semester (7 Cr. Hrs.)

TRUK 1201 Commercial Driver’s License Review (1)
TRUK 1202 Truck Driver Training I (3)
TRUK 1203 Truck Driver Training II (3)

HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRANSPORTATION - Certificate

HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRANSPORTATION - Certificate

This certificate is designed to prepare students for occupations involving the maintenance, repair, and operation of semi-tractor trailer units. Upon successful completion of the curriculum, the student will have a basic knowledge of engine and brake repair, servicing, alignment, and operation of a tractor trailer unit. The Illinois Secretary of State’s Commercial Driver’s License Pre-Trip, Skills and Road Examinations will be administered.

► Total = 16 Credit Hours

First Semester (16 Cr. Hrs.)

DIEL 1202 Basic Diesel Fuel Systems (2)
DIEL 1203 Heavy Equipment Alignment (4)
DIEL 1205 Heavy Equipment Brakes (3)
TRUK 1201 Commercial Driver’s License Review (1)
TRUK 1202 Truck Driver Training I (3)
TRUK 1203 Truck Driver Training II (3)

Truck Driver Training Brochure

Program Outcomes

Truck Driver Training

Pass the Illinois Secretary of State's Commercial Drivers License examination
Determine correct mileage by calculating safe-speed for timely delivery of commodity

Heavy Equipment Transportation

Pass the Illinois Secretary of State’s Commercial Driver’s License Examination
Determine correct mileage by calculating safe-speed for timely delivery of commodity
Demonstrate an understanding of basic maintenance and repair of a semi-tractor trailer

Entry Requirements

A GED or high school diploma is not required for admittance in the program. Students must be 18 years of age, provide a copy of their Motor Vehicle Record, and have a valid driver’s license to register. Before starting the class students must obtain a DOT Physical and drug screen with a DOT-certified physician.

CDL Requirements

Truck Driver Training Registration Form

"I personally would not advise changing anything. The program was extremely beneficial and training has been outstanding. Dave is an extremely nice guy with a heart to do whatever he can to help his students succeed. A very relaxing, yet professional atmosphere. Thanks for such an instructional program with an equally great instructor!"

— Justin Pierce

"I could not ask for a better instructor. He is a great teacher, very patient, and very eager to help students learn."

— 2019 Student

"Rend Lake College delivered what they promised and more: Training needed to obtain a commercial driver's license and help to find a job afterward. Thanks to their program, passing the CDL was easy and I had a good job lined up even before I graduated. My experience at RLC was time and money well invested."

— Dan Schofield

"Great program & an amazing instructor."

— 2019 Student

Job Placement

Job placement assistance is included in the training. Recruiters from several major trucking companies visit each class and present information about employment opportunities with their respective companies. Students often receive job offers before graduating.

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Faculty & Staff

Emily VanDeveer

Administrative Assistant | Applied Science & Technology Division

Phone Extension: 1261

Building: South Oasis

Office: 134

A.A.S - RLC, B.A.S - SIUC

Applied Science & Technology Division
Phone: (618) 437-5321 Ext. 1261
Email: [email protected]
Address: 468 N. Ken Gray Parkway, Ina, IL 62846 Attn: Applied Science
Fax Number: (618) 437-5677 Attn: Applied Science

College office hours
Monday - Thursday: 8 AM – 4:30 PM • Friday 8 AM – 4 PM
Monday – Thursday: 8 AM – 4 PM During Summer