“My experience was awesome,my teacher Lori did a great job with the way she explained how to get the permit, studied hard for 2 days,combination and air breaks went to DMV and pass my test 96% I was very happy with what I learned thank you Lori at trucking 160 driving academy”
Maurice M.
“I am happy to say I got my CDL in a few weeks of hard work.It wasn’t easy but thanks to the professional instructors Dave and Rust I was able to learn the skills I needed in the yard.From administration Jenifer who would ensure I’m doing well physically and emotionally ,if it wasn’t for Jenifer I wouldn’t have continued to come to school because of hardships at home and work she kept me motivated and grounded to keep coming back to school she is a fantastic lady and words cannot explain for what she has done for me.”
Chevon M.
“I'm so grateful for Jennifer's help and support. Dave was my instructor and he helped me make this possible God bless 🙌 overall the experience was amazing and I would recommend this yard classroom ❤️!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
Raymondo D.
Train with experienced instructors in Des Plaines, IL with flexible schedules, hands-on yard training, and career support.
4–5 Weeks
Monthly Plans Available
As Low As $225/Month
5
Seats
available
8
Seats
available
5
Seats
available
Your path to a commercial driver’s license made simple through our structured platform.
Find your nearest 160 Driving Academy location by zip code.
Choose from various flexible financing and payment option.
Complete Your Training With Experienced instructors
Find the perfect job through our job marketplace.
We make the path to earning your CDL clear and straightforward. Watch how our training process helps students gain the skills, confidence, and experience needed to start driving professionally.
Ready to roll into a brighter future, consider these payment options:
Train for multiple commercial vehicle certifications.
| CDL Endorsements | Type of CDL Required | Type of Test Required | TSA Background Required? | CDL Endorsements Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tank Vehicle (N) | Class A or B | Written Knowledge Test | Allows operation of vehicles designed to transport liquids or gaseous materials in tanks with a capacity of more than 119 gallons. | |
| Doubles/ Triples (T) | Class A | Written Knowledge Test | Authorizes a Class A CDL driver to tow more than one trailer, such as double or triple trailers. | |
| Hazardous Materials (H) | Class A or B | Written Knowledge Test | Required to haul hazardous materials (like chemicals or gasoline) that require placards. | |
| Tank/HazMat (X) | Class A or B | Written Knowledge Test | A combination of the H and N endorsements, allowing for the transport of hazardous liquids or gases. | |
| Passenger (P) | Class A or B | Skills Test | Required to operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). | |
| School Bus (S) | Class A or B | Skills Test | Mandatory for driving a school bus, requiring the driver to have a passenger endorsement as well. |
Finding the right truck driving school in Des Plaines, IL can feel like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. If you want the best education available, there’s no better choice than 160 Driving Academy.
Learn from experienced CDL instructors1
120 hours of hands-on driving + 40 hours of classroom training
Affordable training with flexible payment options
Help finding a driving job before graduation
Start earning around $55K+ per year*
Students from this location have opportunities to connect with major transportation employers.
Our Des Plaines, IL training program is designed to help students gain the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on experience needed to pursue a successful CDL career. With experienced instructors, real-world training environments, and flexible scheduling options, students can prepare for opportunities in the growing trucking industry.
Students attending our Des Plaines, IL location receive practical training focused on safety, driving techniques, vehicle inspections, and CDL test preparation. Whether you are starting a new career path or looking for long-term job stability, our program helps students build the skills needed for success on the road.
160 Driving Academy proudly serves students throughout the Des Plaines, IL area with industry-focused CDL education and support. Our team is committed to helping students feel prepared, confident, and career-ready through every stage of the training process.
Welcome to 160 Driving Academy in Des Plaines, IL – your gateway to mastering the art of professional truck driving and securing a prosperous career in this essential industry. Our academy is committed to providing exceptional training and resources, helping you to not only earn your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) but also to thrive in the thriving trucking sector.
160 Driving Academy’s partnership with
Oakton College
connects students to a recognized academic institution while delivering real-world CDL training. Through this collaboration, students benefit from Oakton’s structured classroom environment, workforce development resources, and employer network—combined with hands-on driving experience and career placement support. The result is a more complete pathway to a commercial driving career, blending education, training, and direct access to job opportunities in a high-demand industry.
The 160 Driving Academy in Des Plaines offers a well-rounded program designed to prepare you for a successful career in trucking. Our approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring you’re road-ready and confident.
The trucking industry is a backbone of the economy, offering stable and in-demand career opportunities. With a CDL, your skills are always needed.
Truck drivers often enjoy competitive salaries, benefits, and the potential for bonuses, allowing for a comfortable and secure lifestyle.
Embrace the freedom of the open road, see different parts of the country, and enjoy a career that’s far from the typical 9-to-5 desk job.
Unlike many professions requiring years of education, you can obtain your CDL in a few weeks and immediately start a new, exciting career.
A CDL opens doors to various career paths in the transportation industry, from long-haul trucking to logistics and management roles.
Take the first step towards a rewarding and stable career in truck driving. Enroll in 160 Driving Academy in Des Plaines, IL, and drive towards your future with confidence and the right skills.
Hear from some recent students below!
Before you commit to classes at 160 Driving Academy and a new career direction, you’ll have some questions that you want answered. Check out the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below:
In order to become a class A truck driver (a category that includes almost all tractor trailers), you’ll need to earn your Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). In order to receive CDL certification, you will have to pass the state exam.
For most students, CDL training is extremely affordable. 160 Driving Academy offers multiple support and financing options. We’re here to help you earn your CDL certification and achieve your goals.
160 will prepare you for your written exam with 40 hours of classroom instruction. You will also have 120 hours behind the wheel, driving on Local and Interstate roads and learning by observing other students.
We currently have locations in all regions of the country, allowing you to choose your nearest location and easily commute to class every day. We’re also in the process of expanding into new areas, so keep your eye out for a 160 Driving Academy schools coming to your city!
160 charges companies $50.00 for a 160-student verification. Please contact [email protected] to obtain instructions for ordering.
160 hours of training might sound like a lot, but with 160 Driving Academy, you can finish our program in just four 40 hour weeks. In certain locations we also offer night and weekend classes for students who have jobs and other obligations during the day.
Absolutely! The average commercial truck driver makes *$57,440 a year.
Absolutely! We can prepare you for the double/triple or HazMat written exams. Getting an endorsement in addition to your CDL can greatly increase your salary and job prospects.
Give us a call at 877.350.0884 or fill out our online form, and a career counselor will contact you from there. We look forward to hearing from you!
My experience at 160 academy was excellent. Ms. Holly and Travis were the best instructors. They were very helpful, informative, understanding and patience. They will make sure that you get your experience and prepare you for your exam. Only thing… Read More
Darees H.
I had the pleasure of having Ms. Nikki, and she was absolutely phenomenal! She made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in, and I never felt judged. She was kind, professional, and created a welcoming environment that made… Read More
Nyasia R.
160 Palos Hills was the best decision I’ve made. Julie was awesome she answered all my questions, concerns and gave me the confidence I needed to get through the program and I did just that one & done!!!!!! For all… Read More
Linda G.
Dear Instructors, I sincerely want to thank all of you for your patience, guidance, and support throughout the CDL Class A course. I’m very happy to have passed my final exam, and I know I couldn’t have done it without… Read More
Farid H.
I highly recommend Driving School Seattle! The instructors are professional, patient, and truly care about their students’ success. They explain everything clearly, help build confidence, and create a comfortable learning environment. The training was organized, thorough, and very helpful. Thanks… Read More
Shoib
Despite having a few issues out of anyone’s control testing went smoothly! The team was very helpful in helping me get my CDL
Tayler S.
I recently completed the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training program at 160 Driving Academy in Barstow, Ca and I couldn't be happier with my experience. Thanks to the outstanding instruction and support I received throughout the program, I successfully passed… Read More
Lenwood H.
Ari and Rachel I’m very very special very very tough and strong women. Very patient fun like having a second mom they will push you to links that you didn’t think you had the love half of those two ladies.… Read More
Jayvon H.
Ari and Rachel are working miracles every day Vic also I mean really working miracles what the equipment we have I don’t I don’t know who we have to maintenance our trucks but with the trucks we did have they… Read More
Jayvon H.
My experience was awesome the 2 instructors dewane and Bob were 2 of the best guys awesome instructors and top notch they got me over the hump! And so so many other students firm instructors but funny! These men done… Read More
Eric S.
Tracy Smith, Winton Sully, and Mark Wurtzel were the best instructors a student could ask for. They taught me everything necessary for the next level, a career in trucking. All great men and class acts all around. I will be… Read More
Robert S.
i want to thank my 3 instructor at the barstow driving school, the yard Mr. Z, Mr.J and Dom these 3 kept it personal and showed us through there teaching the love and passion they have for their job. the… Read More
analouisa p.
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