Roadrunner Transportation
$58,000 - $88,000OTR, Regional, LTL, Owner-Operator
Very High Demand
Over-the-Road (OTR) Jobs in Illinois
Browse otr trucking positions across Illinois with top carriers hiring now.
Average Pay
$55,000 - $85,000
Demand Level
Very High
Top Carriers
5+ Hiring
Key Cities
5+ Markets
OTR Trucking in Illinois
Illinois is positioned in the heart of America's freight network where major interstates intersect. OTR drivers based here can reach 80% of the U.S. population within a single driving shift, making it a prime location for long-haul carriers. Demand for OTR drivers in Illinois is very high, with carriers actively recruiting experienced drivers and offering competitive sign-on bonuses. The state's strategic location keeps freight volumes consistent year-round.
Top Companies Hiring OTR Drivers in IL
View Company
Knight-Swift Transportation
$50,000 - $85,000OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Refrigerated, Intermodal
USA Truck (DB Schenker)
$50,000 - $75,000OTR, Regional, Dedicated
CRST International
$48,000 - $80,000OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Team, Flatbed
KLLM Transport
$55,000 - $85,000OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Refrigerated
Top Cities for OTR Jobs in Illinois
Chicago
Illinois
Springfield
Illinois
Joliet
Illinois
Rockford
Illinois
East St. Louis
Illinois
Key Freight Routes in Illinois
1
I-80/I-55 (Joliet intermodal corridor)
2
I-90/I-94 (Chicago metro)
3
I-57 (Chicago to southern IL)
Requirements for OTR Driving in IL
- Valid CDL-A license
- Minimum 6 months verifiable OTR experience (some carriers accept new graduates)
- Clean MVR with no major violations in the past 3 years
- DOT physical card (medical examiner's certificate)
- Ability to pass pre-employment drug screening
- Must be at least 21 years old for interstate driving
Start Your OTR Driving Career in Illinois
Submit your application and get matched with companies hiring otr drivers in IL.
OTR Trucking Jobs in Illinois — FAQs
How much do otr truck drivers make in Illinois?
OTR truck drivers in Illinois earn $55,000 - $85,000 annually, depending on experience, endorsements, and carrier. Illinois's central location and freight density help drivers maintain consistent miles, which translates to strong annual earnings. Sign-on bonuses of $3,000 to $15,000 are common at major carriers actively hiring in IL.
What are the best OTR trucking routes through Illinois?
Illinois's interstate system connects drivers to major freight lanes across the region. Outbound loads from Illinois typically move to distribution hubs in neighboring states, while inbound freight includes consumer goods, raw materials, and manufacturing inputs. Carriers based in or running through IL offer consistent miles with multiple routing options.
Are trucking companies in Illinois hiring otr drivers in 2026?
Yes — otr driver demand in Illinois is very high heading into 2026. Illinois is one of the top hiring markets for otr drivers, with multiple carriers offering sign-on bonuses, increased CPM rates, and accelerated hiring processes. Check individual carrier listings for current openings and application requirements in IL.