Last Updated 24th of April, 2010

How do I apply for a CDL endorsement in Illinois? Illinois

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Get CDL Practice for the Knowledge Test

You will need to pass a specific knowledge test for your chosen endorsement:
  • Passenger (Class P): Required if you plan to operate a vehicle carrying 16 or more passengers (including the driver). Must pass a 20-question test. Study section four of the IL CDL manual.  
  • School Bus (Class S): Required if you plan to drive a yellow school bus transporting kids to and from school. Must pass a 20-question test. 
  • Charter Bus (Class C): Required if you plan on transporting students involved in school-sponsored activities. Must pass a 20-question test.
  • Hazardous Materials (Class H): Must pass a 30-question test and a federal background check. Study section nine of the CDL manual. 
  • Tank (Class N): Must pass a 20-question exam. Study section eight of the CDL manual.
  • Double/Triple (Class T): Must pass a 20-question test. Study section of the commercial license manual. 
You can get a copy of the Illinois CDL manual from any Secretary of State (SOS) office for free. Or, save time by downloading a copy from the SOS's website. After studying, gauge your comprehension by taking a CDL practice test. You can find these online from numerous websites.

Pass Your Endorsement Exam

Once you're ready, visit a SOS equipped to administer the CDL test for endorsements. Bring with you:

  • Your CDL or proper identification.
  • Your DOT medical card.
  • Cash or a check to pay $5 endorsement fee. 

If you fail the endorsement test three times, you'll need to wait 30 days before taking the exam again. If you fail six times, you'll need to wait 60 days. And if you fail nine times, you'll need to wait 90 days. 

NOTE: Any CDL driver applying for a hazardous materials endorsement on his or her existing CDL class will have to pay additional fees and undergo more fingerprinting.

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