Any suggestions on my situation?

Thanks for letting me join the Forum. I have a few questions if I may.
With the economy the way is is I have been seriously considering getting back into the drivers seat. I have a few minor(I hope) issues or questions though.
1: I live in Illinois and from what I understand in order to get my Illinois C.D.L. the road test has to be done in Illinois now. How do these Trucking Companies that offer training out of state help student be able to take their driving test in Illinois? This sucks!! If a guy doesn't have his own Tractor-Trailer or know someone who does, your pretty much stuck having to go to a facility in Illinois. This closes the door on Company sponsored programs. I realize Company sponsored programs aren't the best choice, but, it's the best alternative if you can't afford a big fee up front.
2: I previously held a C.D.L. and stupidly got busted for a D.U.I. 6 years ago in my personal vehicle on my off time. It pretty much ruined me for a while until I was able to get a job as a welder. The company I welded for layed a bunch of us off 2 years ago and I've been struggling since. Last year I enrolled in school to learn HVAC. Low and behold, even though I finished top of my class. No one is hiring. So that was a big waste of time and money. This is why I'm seriously considering Driving again even though I'll have to start at the bottom again. I had about 10 years behind the wheel. I called the Secretary of State and they told me I could get my C.D.L. back, no problem. BUT, here we go, I have to do the road test in Illinois and I haven't been behind the wheel in 6 years, The 2 companies whom I ran for are no longer around. So starting over is what I must do. Millis seems to have a fair program. Are there any others out there that I haven't seen? I have seen some schools around Chicago that offer a refresher for former C.D.L. holders but I doubt this would fly for most companies. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
3: How is freight right now. Are there more drivers and trucks than freight?

 

Actually MOST have a policy of 5 years. some are 10 years. I've been doing my research, besides I asked for advice, not criticism. Believe me, I'm my own worst critic. Not that it matters, a DUI is a DUI, but, I had a few beers and went to grab a bite to eat. Due to a burnt fuse my tail lights went out. That is why I got stopped. Not for driving like an idiot. It only takes 3 beers in an hour to get a DUI. Never the less I appreciate your input there Driver.

I suppose just because a company states their requirements don't mean it is what they really are. We will find out.