Programs
Truck Driver Training
Welcome to our truck driver training certificates. We offer a range of training options including, truck driving training (Class A and Class B CDL) and heavy equipment transportation. Let us prepare you for a rewarding career in truck driving. Explore our site to discover how we can help you achieve your goals.
ELDT Approved
Start Your Journey
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. We are an ELDT Approved provider.
Short-Term
Certificates
Essential skills and training to jumpstart your career in a matter of months
Truck Driver Training - Class A CDL
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 Class A 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.
Plan Your Truck Driver Training Certificate
Total = 7 Hours | |
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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 |
|
Fall Semester | |
TRUK 1201 - Commercial Driver’s License Review | 1 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1202 - Truck Driver Training I | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1203 - Truck Driver Training II | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
Truck Driver Training - Class B CDL
A review of the rules and regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Entry Level Driver Training to prepare individuals for the written portion of the Illinois Secretary of State’s Class B Commercial Driver’s License. Hands-on instruction to improve skills and techniques utilized in the operation of a class B (heavy straight) vehicle. Instruction will include pre-trip inspection, backing, shifting and cornering techniques. The Illinois Secretary of State’s Class B Commercial Driver’s License Pre-Trip, Skills and Road Examinations will be administered at the conclusion of this course.
Plan Your Class B CDL Certificate
Total = 3.5 Hours | |
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TRUK 1204 - Class B CDL Permit | 1 Cr. Hr. |
TRUK 1205 - Class B CDL Driving | 2.5 Cr. Hrs. |
Heavy Equipment Transportation
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.
Plan Your Heavy Equipment Transportation Certificate
Total = 16 Hours | |
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First Semester | |
DIEL 1201 - Diesel Fuel Systems | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
DIEL 1203 - Heavy Equipment Alignment | 2 Cr. Hrs. |
DIEL 1205 - Heavy Equipment Brakes | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1201 - Commercial Driver’s License Review | 1 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1202 - Truck Driver Training I | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1203 - Truck Driver Training II | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
BUSI 1202 - Employability Skills | 1 Cr. Hrs. |
Total: | 16 Cr. Hrs. |
Truck Driver Training - Class A CDL
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 Class A 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.
Plan Your Truck Driver Training Certificate
Total = 7 Hours | |
---|---|
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 |
|
Fall Semester | |
TRUK 1201 - Commercial Driver’s License Review | 1 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1202 - Truck Driver Training I | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1203 - Truck Driver Training II | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
Truck Driver Training - Class B CDL
A review of the rules and regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Entry Level Driver Training to prepare individuals for the written portion of the Illinois Secretary of State’s Class B Commercial Driver’s License. Hands-on instruction to improve skills and techniques utilized in the operation of a class B (heavy straight) vehicle. Instruction will include pre-trip inspection, backing, shifting and cornering techniques. The Illinois Secretary of State’s Class B Commercial Driver’s License Pre-Trip, Skills and Road Examinations will be administered at the conclusion of this course.
Plan Your Class B CDL Certificate
Total = 3.5 Hours | |
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TRUK 1204 - Class B CDL Permit | 1 Cr. Hr. |
TRUK 1205 - Class B CDL Driving | 2.5 Cr. Hrs. |
Heavy Equipment Transportation
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.
Plan Your Heavy Equipment Transportation Certificate
Total = 16 Hours | |
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First Semester | |
DIEL 1201 - Diesel Fuel Systems | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
DIEL 1203 - Heavy Equipment Alignment | 2 Cr. Hrs. |
DIEL 1205 - Heavy Equipment Brakes | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1201 - Commercial Driver’s License Review | 1 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1202 - Truck Driver Training I | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
TRUK 1203 - Truck Driver Training II | 3 Cr. Hrs. |
BUSI 1202 - Employability Skills | 1 Cr. Hrs. |
Total: | 16 Cr. Hrs. |
Program Outcomes
1. Pass the Illinois Secretary of State's Commercial Drivers License examination
2. Determine correct mileage by calculating safe-speed for timely delivery of commodity
Program Outcomes
1.Pass the Illinois Secretary of State’s Commercial Driver’s License Examination
2.Determine correct mileage by calculating safe-speed for timely delivery of commodity
3. Demonstrate an understanding of basic maintenance and repair of a semi-tractor trailer
ELDT Approved Provider
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.
Entry Requirements & Registration
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.
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
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.
Key Information for Applying
Become Familiar with RLC Admission Requiremements
Being well-informed about admission requirements increases your chances of a successful application and an overall smooth application process.
Apply for Admission
Applying to Rend Lake College is an investment in your future, offering numerous benefits that lead to professional and personal growth.
Speak with an Academic Advisor
Academic advisors are valuable resources for maximizing your college experience and ensuring you make the most of your education.
Apply for Financial Aid
Applying for financial aid opens up a range of financial resources and options that can make attending college more affordable and less stressful.
Faculty & Staff
Applied Science & Technology Division
Phone: (618) 437-5321 ext. 1261
Email: AppliedScience@rlc.edu
Address: 468 N. Ken Gray Parkway, Ina, IL 62846 Attn: Applied Science
Fax Number: (618) 437-5677 Attn: Applied Science