How to Get Your CDL Class A License in Minnesota: Complete 2024 Guide (FREE Study Guide Included)

Getting your CDL Class A license in Minnesota opens doors to high-paying trucking careers with salaries ranging from $60,000 to $90,000+ per year. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process, from obtaining your commercial learner’s permit to passing your road test and landing your first trucking job in Minnesota. Plus, get our FREE CDL study guide to help you pass on the first try!

What is a CDL Class A License?

A CDL Class A license allows you to operate:

Tractor-trailers and semi-trucks
Truck and trailer combinations over 26,001 lbs
Flatbed trucks with heavy equipment
Tanker trucks and hazmat vehicles (with endorsements)
Long-haul and local delivery trucks

Average CDL Class A driver salaries in Minnesota:

Entry-level drivers: $55,000-$65,000/year
Experienced drivers: $70,000-$85,000/year
Owner-operators: $90,000-$150,000+/year
Specialized hauling: $80,000-$120,000/year

Minnesota CDL Class A Requirements (2024 Updated)

Before starting the CDL process in Minnesota, ensure you meet these basic requirements:

Age Requirements:

21 years old for interstate commerce (cross state lines)
18 years old for intrastate commerce (within Minnesota only)

Driving Record Requirements:

Valid Minnesota driver’s license for at least 1 year
Clean driving record (no more than 2 moving violations in 3 years)
No DUI/DWI convictions in the past 10 years
No major traffic violations (reckless driving, hit and run, etc.)

Medical Requirements:

Pass DOT physical examination
Obtain Medical Examiner’s Certificate (valid 2 years)
Meet vision and hearing standards
No disqualifying medical conditions

Step 1: Get Your DOT Physical and Medical Certificate

Before applying for your commercial learner’s permit, you must pass a DOT physical examination with a certified medical examiner.

What the DOT Physical Includes:

Vision test (20/40 or better with/without correction)
Hearing test (able to hear forced whisper at 5 feet)
Blood pressure and heart rate check
Urinalysis for diabetes and other conditions
Physical examination of joints, spine, and mobility
Review of medical history and medications

Cost: $75-$150 | Valid for: Up to 2 years

Find DOT-certified medical examiners in Minnesota: Use the FMCSA National Registry search tool or call Titan Trucking School at (612) 699-1403 for local recommendations.

Step 2: Obtain Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) allows you to practice driving commercial vehicles with a qualified CDL holder. Here’s how to get it:

Required Documents for CLP Application:

Valid Minnesota driver’s license
DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate
Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
Social Security card or W-2
Two proofs of Minnesota residency
CLP application fee ($18.25)

Written Knowledge Exams Required:

General Knowledge Test – Basic commercial driving rules and safety
Air Brakes Test – Air brake system operation and safety checks
Combination Vehicles Test – Coupling, uncoupling, and tractor-trailer operation

Passing Score: 80% on each exam | Cost: $6.25 per test

FREE CLP Preparation Resources at Titan Trucking School

Don’t risk failing your permit test! Titan Trucking School provides comprehensive FREE resources to help you pass your Commercial Learner’s Permit exam on the first try:

🆓 FREE CDL Study Guide for New Students

Every new student receives our comprehensive FREE CDL study guide that covers all three required knowledge areas:

Complete General Knowledge review with practice questions
Air Brakes system explained in simple terms
Combination Vehicles operation and safety
Test-taking strategies and insider tips
Minnesota-specific CDL regulations and requirements
Practice exams that mirror the actual DMV tests
Step-by-step study plan to pass on first attempt
Common mistakes to avoid on the written exam

Why Our FREE Study Guide Works:

Based on actual Minnesota DMV test questions
Written by experienced CDL instructors
Includes visual diagrams and explanations
Updated for 2024 regulations and requirements
Proven to help students pass on first try

Ready to get your FREE CDL study guide and start preparing for your permit test?

📞 Call us today at (612) 699-1403 to claim your FREE study guide and learn more about our CDL training programs.

🌐 Or visit titantruckingschool.com/contact/ to request your FREE study guide online and get more information about our comprehensive CDL programs.

Don’t wait – get your FREE study guide today and take the first step toward your CDL career!

Step 3: Complete ELDT (Entry Level Driver Training) – REQUIRED

Important: As of February 7, 2022, all new CDL applicants must complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

ELDT Requirements for CDL Class A:

Theory Training: Minimum 30 hours of classroom/online instruction
Behind-the-Wheel Training: Minimum 30 hours of hands-on driving
Range Training: Pre-trip inspections, backing, and basic controls
Road Training: Public road driving in various traffic conditions

Why Choose Professional CDL Training?

While you could practice with a friend or family member who has a CDL, professional CDL training offers significant advantages:

98% first-time pass rates vs. 60-70% for self-trained students
ELDT compliance guarantee – meet all federal requirements
Modern training vehicles – learn on equipment similar to what you’ll drive professionally
Expert instructors – learn from professionals with 20+ years experience
Job placement assistance – get hired immediately after graduation
Insurance coverage – practice safely without liability concerns

Titan Trucking School’s Comprehensive Training Program:

Duration: Complete CDL in just 3 weeks
Training Hours: 160+ hours (exceeds ELDT minimums)
Class Schedule: Full-time, part-time, and weekend options
Training Fleet: Late-model Freightliner and Peterbilt trucks
Pass Rate: 98% first-time CDL test success
Job Placement: 100% graduate placement assistance

Ready to start your professional CDL training? Call (612) 699-1403 or visit titantruckingschool.com/contact/ to learn more about our ELDT-compliant programs.

Step 4: Master the Three-Part CDL Skills Test

The Minnesota CDL Class A skills test consists of three parts, all of which must be passed:

Part 1: Pre-Trip Inspection Test

Demonstrate your ability to safely inspect a commercial vehicle by explaining what you’re checking and why.

Engine Compartment: Fluids, belts, hoses, air compressor
Exterior Inspection: Lights, tires, brakes, coupling system
Interior Inspection: Gauges, controls, safety equipment
Air Brake Check: System pressure and leak tests

Time Limit: 60 minutes | Passing Score: No more than 12 points deducted

Part 2: Basic Control Skills (Backing/Maneuvering)

Demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in tight spaces:

Straight Line Backing: Back in a straight line between cones
Offset Backing: Back into a space offset to the left or right
Parallel Parking: Park the vehicle parallel between cones

Scoring: Points deducted for hitting cones, pull-ups, and encroachments

Part 3: On-Road Driving Test

Drive safely in real traffic conditions while demonstrating:

Starting and stopping smoothly and safely
Turning – proper positioning and execution
Intersections – proper scanning and decision making
Lane changes and merging – safe gap selection and signaling
Curves and hills – appropriate speed management
Railroad crossings – proper stopping and crossing procedures

Duration: 30-45 minutes | Automatic Failure Items: Accidents, traffic violations, unsafe actions

Step 5: Schedule Your CDL Test in Minnesota

Minnesota CDL testing locations and scheduling information:

Twin Cities Area Testing Sites:

Arden Hills DVS: 1837 Arden View Dr, Arden Hills, MN 55112
Plymouth DVS: 3025 Harbor Ln N, Plymouth, MN 55447
Eagan DVS: 1905 Rahncliff Ct, Eagan, MN 55122
Brooklyn Center DVS: 1925 Silver Lake Rd NW, New Brighton, MN 55112

What to Bring to Your CDL Test:

Valid Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
Current DOT Medical Certificate
ELDT completion certificate
Pre-trip inspection checklist (if provided by school)
CDL skills test fee ($25)
Properly registered and insured test vehicle

Titan’s CDL Test Advantage:

When you train with Titan Trucking School, we provide:

Guaranteed test scheduling – no waiting weeks for appointments
Test vehicle provided – use our modern, well-maintained trucks
Instructor accompaniment – moral support and last-minute coaching
Retest support – additional training if needed (rare with our 98% pass rate)

Step 6: Get Hired – CDL Job Placement in Minnesota

Congratulations! You now have your CDL Class A license. Here’s how to land your first trucking job in Minnesota:

Top Trucking Companies Hiring in Minnesota:

Schneider National – $60,000-$75,000/year, excellent benefits
Werner Enterprises – $55,000-$70,000/year, sign-on bonuses
Prime Inc. – $65,000-$80,000/year, top equipment
Crete Carrier – $58,000-$72,000/year, family-owned company
Local Minnesota Companies – $50,000-$85,000/year, home daily options

Titan’s 100% Job Placement Guarantee:

Every Titan Trucking School graduate receives comprehensive job placement assistance:

Resume building – professional trucking-focused resumes
Interview preparation – practice with real hiring managers
Direct company connections – relationships with 50+ hiring partners
On-site hiring events – companies come to our school to hire
Salary negotiation – help you get the best possible offer
30-day follow-up – continued support after you start working

Ready to learn more about our job placement services? Call (612) 699-1403 or visit titantruckingschool.com/contact/ to speak with our career placement team.

CDL Class A Training Costs and Financing Options in Minnesota

Investment in Your Future:

Titan Trucking School Tuition: $4,995 (includes all training, materials, and testing)
Average Minnesota CDL School Cost: $3,000-$8,000
Return on Investment: Recover training costs in 3-4 months of driving

Financing Options Available:

Payment plans starting at $299/month
VA Benefits accepted – use your GI Bill for CDL training
Workforce development grants – up to 100% funding available
Company sponsorship – some employers will pay for your training
Personal loans – we can help you find competitive rates

Want to discuss financing options? Call (612) 699-1403 to speak with our financial aid counselor about payment plans and funding opportunities.

Why Choose Titan Trucking School for CDL Training in Minnesota?

When you’re investing in CDL training, choose the school that delivers results:

🚀 Fastest Training: Get your CDL in just 3 weeks – fastest in Minnesota
🎯 98% Pass Rate: Highest first-time pass rate in the Twin Cities area
💼 Guaranteed Job Placement: 100% of graduates receive job placement assistance
🏫 Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art training center in Saint Paul
🚛 Latest Equipment: Train on modern Freightliner and Peterbilt trucks
👨‍🏫 Expert Instructors: 20+ years average commercial driving experience
💰 Flexible Financing: Multiple payment options and VA benefits accepted
📍 Convenient Location: Easy access from Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and suburbs
🆓 FREE Study Guide: Comprehensive permit prep materials included

Frequently Asked Questions – CDL Class A in Minnesota

How long does it take to get a CDL Class A in Minnesota?

With professional training at Titan Trucking School, you can get your CDL Class A license in just 3 weeks. Self-study typically takes 2-6 months and has much lower pass rates (60-70% vs our 98%).

How much do CDL drivers make in Minnesota?

Entry-level CDL drivers in Minnesota earn $55,000-$65,000/year. Experienced drivers make $70,000-$85,000/year, and owner-operators can earn $100,000+.

Can I get my CDL without going to school?

While possible, it’s not recommended. Self-trained students have only a 60-70% pass rate compared to 98% for professional school graduates. You still need ELDT training from a registered provider like Titan Trucking School.

Do trucking companies hire new CDL graduates?

Yes! Many companies specifically recruit new graduates and offer excellent starting packages including sign-on bonuses, benefits, and training pay. Titan’s job placement team works with 50+ hiring partners.

Is the FREE study guide really free?

Absolutely! Our comprehensive CDL study guide is completely free with no strings attached. Call (612) 699-1403 or visit titantruckingschool.com/contact/ to get yours today.

Start Your CDL Class A Career Today in Minnesota

The trucking industry in Minnesota is booming with high demand for qualified drivers. Don’t wait – start your high-paying CDL career today!

By following this complete guide and choosing professional training at Titan Trucking School in Saint Paul, you’ll:

Get your CDL Class A license in just 3 weeks
Pass your road test on the first attempt (98% success rate)
Land a high-paying job immediately after graduation
Start earning $60,000-$90,000+ per year
Enjoy job security in a growing industry
Receive comprehensive FREE study materials

Ready to get started? Classes begin every Monday!

📞 Call Titan Trucking School today at (612) 699-1403 to:

Claim your FREE CDL study guide
Schedule your enrollment consultation
Reserve your spot in our next class
Learn about financing options
Ask questions about our programs

🌐 Visit titantruckingschool.com/contact/ to:

Download your FREE study guide instantly
Get more information about our programs
Schedule a campus tour
Meet our expert instructors
Learn about job placement services

Don’t let another day pass without taking action toward your CDL Class A license and a rewarding trucking career in Minnesota!

Take advantage of our FREE study guide today – call (612) 699-1403 or visit our contact page to get started on your path to a $75,000+ trucking career!