Class A CDL Truck Driver - Chicago OTR Division

Experienced Class A CDL Solo OTR Truck Drivers Wanted

Our routes often begin or conclude in the Chicago, IL region, giving local drivers reliable home time on nationwide runs doing over the road services. We are actively hiring experienced Class A CDL Solo OTR Truck Drivers for our modern fleet who live in the Chicago, IL area and surrounding communities. Chicago is one of our largest and most active markets in the Midwest, with high freight volume, diverse route options, and strong demand across multiple lanes.

Typical Pay Highlights:

• 30% of line haul OR 65 a mile + bonuses (the choice most solo drivers prefer).
• Average weekly gross: $1,900 – $2,400 with peaks reaching $2,700+ on legal hours.
• Switch between percentage and miles pay whenever you choose.
• Consistent drivers earned between $115,000 and $125,000 in 2025.
• A few exceptional top performers reached $145,000 last year driving full time.
• Anyone who wants to put in the effort will make good money!

Pay Details & Realistic Expectations: Pay is performance-based. In 2025, 87% of our drivers went with the 30% percentage plan because it consistently delivered better earnings in the current market. Slow season (Q1) typically ranges from $1,900–$2,100 per week with some weeks hitting $2,400. Peak seasons (Q2 and Q4) usually run $2,100–$2,400 with some $2,700 weeks. Q3 is somewhere between. This seasonal pattern has been reliable for the past 25 years. Everyone is different, some who work harder than others, are fit and able, and who work well with our dispatchers consistently blow the numbers away.

Pay Options:

• Percentage Pay (Best Option for Most Solos) - We pay up to 30% of line haul plus bonuses. We intentionally keep miles lower on percentage (2,000–2,500 in slow season and up to 3,000 in busy season) because it maximizes earnings, reduces fuel costs, and helps prevent burnout.
• Miles Pay Option - Switch at any time. Up to 65 cents per mile plus bonuses based on experience and record. Typical miles: 2,500–3,600 per week.
• Team Pay (Miles Only) - Up to 75¢ per mile split. Average $2,000–$2,600 per driver per week. Note: Solo percentage pay is currently the stronger choice in this market.

Important Info About Our Work Ethic: We receive a high volume of applications and are selective — we are looking for "A" stringers and true professionals. Motivated, honest, and hard-working drivers earn excellent money and are treated like family. If you prefer coasting, missing loads, or spending time at truck stops, this is not the right opportunity. We are fair, but success depends on your effort.

What Makes DSL Express Different:

• We are a well-established company with 25 years in business since 2001 — large enough to offer strong support and modern equipment, yet small enough that every driver counts.
• We welcome veterans and give fair-chance employment to anyone ready to work hard.
• 24/7 dispatch from three offices with real experienced staff.
• Modern trucks (mostly automatics with some manuals available) equipped with fridges and inverters.
• Company-owned mechanic shops in Chicago and Las Vegas.
• Dedicated dispatchers who learn your style and preferences.
• All no-touch freight in dry van or reefer trailers.
• Strong carrier partnerships that combine big-company resources with a family-owned feel.

Perks:

• No forced dispatch.
• Ability to take the truck home during hometime with parking support.
• Fuel cards and EZ-Passes provided.
• Weekly direct deposit.
• Flexible and reliable home time.
• Dedicated lanes can be set up for consistent drivers.
• Hazard occupational insurance covering lost wages, medical, and beneficiary.
• Monthly bonuses for safety, delivery performance, and communication.
• Extra bonuses for successful DOT inspections.

Job Description:

• Class A CDL required (additional endorsements a plus).
• Minimum 2+ years verifiable CDL experience.
• Clean MVR and acceptable PSP report.
• Dry van or reefer — all no-touch freight.
• Must be comfortable with modern ELD systems and able to pass pre-employment drug screen.

Minimum Driver Qualifications:

• Must be physically fit and prepared for the demands of over-the-road driving.
• Valid Class A CDL with no pending suspensions.
• Up-to-date valid medical card.
• No failed or refused drug/alcohol tests in the last 4 years.
• No DWI, DUI, or BAC convictions in the last 4 years.
• No reckless driving convictions in the last 3 years.
• No more than 3 moving violations or accidents in the last 3 years.
• No license suspension for points or unpaid tickets in the last 3 years.
• No more than 2 moving violations in the past year.
• At least 3+ years of verifiable work history (including non-driving time).

We want serious, good people who take this job seriously. Apply today.