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Transportation · Illinois

How to Become a Light Truck Drivers in Illinois

Light Truck Drivers in Illinois earn a median salary of $46,440/year, which is 5% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a light truck drivers takes home approximately $1,676/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$46K
Median salary in Illinois
+5%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
48,940
Employed in Illinois

What a light truck drivers can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$46,440
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,088/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home45.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$46,440/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,676/mo

Becoming a light truck drivers in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Light Truck Drivers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many light truck drivers positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for light truck driverss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 48,940 light truck drivers. The highest concentrations are in Rockford and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Light Truck Drivers salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Rockford$49K$23.59/hr1,330
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$47K$22.73/hr36,380
Decatur$46K$22.25/hr360
Champaign-Urbana$46K$22.09/hr840
Kankakee$45K$21.43/hr360
Springfield$43K$20.83/hr730
Peoria$41K$19.87/hr1,260
Bloomington$38K$18.28/hr460

Light Truck Drivers salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$38K
Median (50th)
$46K
75th percentile
$59K
90th percentile (senior)
$85K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a light truck drivers make in Illinois?

The median light truck drivers salary in Illinois is $46,440 per year ($22.33/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $44,140. Salaries range from $30,590 to $85,380.

What are the requirements to become a light truck drivers in Illinois?

Light Truck Drivers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a light truck drivers afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $46,440, a light truck drivers in Illinois would take home approximately $3,088/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for light truck drivers in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for light truck drivers in Illinois are Rockford ($49,070), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($47,270), Decatur ($46,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for light truck drivers?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $46,440 salary, this means roughly $2,299/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.