Truck Driver Training
Truck Driver Training students are required to provide proof of vaccination when registering or submit a weekly COVID test. Free COVID testing is available at the SHIELD testing center on campus.
Prepare for a Career in Commercial Truck Driving
Are you looking for a career and not just another job?
Consider becoming a professional truck driver. Nussbaum Trucking Academy at Heartland Community College will open the door to a lifetime of opportunities.
No previous experience is required.
You will receive:
- Classroom training for the CDL Learner's Permit
- 8 hours of Essential Workplace Skills training in communications and customer service
- Behind-the-wheel training in an automatic transmission semitrailer-truck
The course covers the following topics to prepare you for an entry-level position as a driver:
- State and federal regulations
- Log books
- Map reading and trip planning
- Complete vehicle training
At the end of the course, you will take a Class “A” License Road and Skill Test, administered by the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office.
Before you register for the program, you must:
- Have a current driver's license issued by the State of Illinois.
- Be 18 years or older.
- Complete and pass the DOT Physical and Drug screening.
- Download and complete the DOT Physical/Drug screen form for OSF St. Joseph (PDF) in Normal or OSF St. James (PDF) in Pontiac.
- Go to OSF St. Joseph in Normal or OSF St. James in Pontiac to have your screening done. While there, you will turn in your DOT form (above).
- The results will go directly to Heartland Continuing Education.
Registration and other fees:
- The course fee is $4,200, of which a $630 down payment is required at registration. (See below for payment plan options and assistance.)
- You are responsible for the $99 fee paid to OSF St. Joseph or the $107 fee paid to OSF St. James for the DOT physical/drug screen listed above.
- When you take the permit exam you are responsible for a $50 fee paid to the DMV.
Students for Whom English is Not a First Language
Basic English language literacy and communication skills are vital to the safety of the student, instructor, and others on the road. Please contact HCC Adult Education with any concerns related to this requirement as they can assess your skillsets and may enroll you in Heartland’s free ESL class as a first step.
Daytime classes run 4 weeks, Monday-Friday, 8AM-4:30PM.
Evening classes run 8 weeks, Monday-Friday, 5-9PM. Classes run in Normal. Based on demand, classes may be scheduled in Pontiac and Lincoln.
2021 Class Dates
Daytime Classes in Normal
- October 11-November 8
Evening Classes in Normal
- September 13 - November 9
- We strive to provide excellent learning experiences in our Continuing Education classes. As a result, anyone exhibiting inappropriate behavior or disrepectful language may be dismissed without refund. Please refer to the HCC Student Conduct Policy for details at studentHandbook/conduct.
Payment Options
We offer an installment payment plan through Nelnet and student loans are available through SallieMae.
We also offer a partial, competitive Financial Scholarship.
If you are a veteran you may qualify for the Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG). Contact Todd Burns, Director of Financial Aid at 309-268-8015 or todd.burns@heartland.edu
Call us at 309-268-8448 for more information.
Possible tuition assistance available through County Workforce Services:
Employment Statement for Job Training Programs
Heartland Community College does not guarantee employment upon completion of instructional programs. Students are responsible for researching relevant employment opportunities prior to registration. No refunds will be provided if a student fails to complete a course, does not pass a certification exam, or is unsuccessful at obtaining employment.
Contact Us
Phone: 309-268-8448, Monday-Friday 8AM-3:30PM
Email: Truck.Driver@heartland.edu
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