Entry Level Truck Driver Salary in Illinois
6 months - 1 year experience. Pay in Illinois (IL): $49,000 - $63,000.
Illinois Pay
$49,000 - $63,000
National Avg
$45,000 - $58,000
vs National
+$4,000
Experience
6 months - 1 year
Entry Level Driver Pay in Illinois
You have completed your initial training period and have been driving solo for several months. You are building confidence in your skills and establishing your safety record. At this stage, more carriers are willing to hire you and pay rates start improving noticeably.
In Illinois, entry level drivers earn $49,000 - $63,000 — above the national average. Illinois's freight market, cost of living, and carrier competition influence local pay rates.
Pay by Equipment in Illinois
Your equipment type significantly impacts earnings at the entry level level:
| Equipment | Est. IL Pay |
|---|---|
| Dry Van | $49k - $63k |
| Reefer | $53k - $68k |
| Flatbed | $56k - $72k |
| Tanker | $59k - $76k |
| Hazmat | $61k - $79k |
Companies Hiring in Illinois
FAQ
How much do entry level truck drivers make in Illinois?
Entry Level truck drivers (6 months - 1 year experience) in Illinois earn approximately $49,000 - $63,000 per year. This is above the national average of $45,000 - $58,000.
What companies hire entry level drivers in Illinois?
Top companies hiring entry level drivers in Illinois include Heartland Express, USA Truck, Marten Transport. Many offer paid CDL training programs.
How can entry level drivers increase their pay in Illinois?
The fastest way to increase pay is gaining experience and adding endorsements (hazmat, tanker). Most drivers see a significant raise after their first year.