How to Get a CDL in MN?
Getting a commercial driver's license (CDL) in Minnesota requires fulfilling both federal standards established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state-level licensing statutes enforced by the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). Prospective commercial drivers must be at least 18 years old for intrastate hauling or 21 years old for interstate transport, obtain a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examiner's certificate, complete certified Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), hold a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days, and pass a rigorous three-part DVS practical road skills examination.
Prerequisites, Medical Certification, and DVS Permits
Before applying for a Minnesota CLP, you must possess a valid, unexpired Minnesota Class D standard driver's license and establish lawful US permanent presence or citizenship. Medical qualification is mandatory: you must be examined by a registered National Registry certified medical examiner who evaluates blood pressure, vision, hearing, and cardiovascular health. Once cleared, the examiner issues a Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876), which must be officially self-certified with the Minnesota DVS as Non-Excepted Interstate or Intrastate.
Under the federal ELDT mandate, all first-time applicants for Class A or Class B CDLs must graduate from an approved training provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) before scheduling a state road test. ELDT covers both theoretical classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel range and public road driving. At the DVS exam station, you must pass computerized knowledge tests covering General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles (for Class A) to earn your CLP.
The table below outlines Minnesota CDL license classifications, gross vehicle weight ratings, and operational scopes.
| CDL Class | Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Typical Commercial Vehicles | Minimum Age | Required Knowledge Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class A CDL | Combinations 26,001+ lbs; towed unit over 10,000 lbs | Tractor-trailers, flatbeds, livestock haulers | 18 (Intra) / 21 (Inter) | General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combinations |
| Class B CDL | Single unit 26,001+ lbs; towed unit under 10,000 lbs | Dump trucks, concrete mixers, transit buses | 18 (Intra) / 21 (Inter) | General Knowledge, Air Brakes (if equipped) |
| Class C CDL | Under 26,001 lbs transport 16+ passengers or hazmat | Small hazmat trucks, commercial passenger vans | 18 (Intra) / 21 (Inter) | General Knowledge + Passenger/Hazmat |
After obtaining your Minnesota CLP, you must wait a mandatory minimum of 14 calendar days before you can sit for your practical skills test.
The Three-Part DVS Road Skills Exam and Licensing Fees
The final obstacle to earning your Minnesota CDL is passing the practical road skills test administered by a DVS examiner at an official state testing facility. The examination consists of three consecutive sections: the Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection, Basic Vehicle Control Maneuvers, and the On-Road Driving Exam. During the pre-trip phase, you must point to and verbally explain the operational condition of vital safety components, including brake chambers, slack adjusters, air lines, steering linkage, and suspension leaf springs.
The basic control skills segment tests your ability to maneuver a commercial vehicle within measured boundaries, requiring straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking or alley docking. After successfully executing your backing maneuvers without excessive pull-ups or boundary encroachments, you embark on the public road test to demonstrate speed management, intersection crossing, urban lane positioning, railroad crossing protocols, and bridge clearance awareness.
The breakdown table below details standard state administrative fees for Minnesota commercial licensing.
| Licensing Fee Item | Statutory DVS Cost | Payment Recipient | Validity / Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) | $10.50 test fee + $2.50 filing fee | Minnesota DVS | Valid for 180 days (renewable) |
| Class A Commercial Driver's License | $54.25 base fee + endorsement fees | Minnesota DVS | Valid for 4 years |
| Class B Commercial Driver's License | $44.25 base fee + endorsement fees | Minnesota DVS | Valid for 4 years |
| Class C Commercial Driver's License | $34.25 base fee + endorsement fees | Minnesota DVS | Valid for 4 years |
| DOT Medical Physical Examination | $75 to $150 (commercial rate) | Certified Medical Clinic | Valid for up to 24 months |
| Endorsement Tests (HazMat, Tanker) | $2.50 per endorsement test | Minnesota DVS | One-time test fee |
Hazardous Materials (H endorsement) applicants must also complete a TSA federal security threat assessment and background check costing approximately $86.50.
How to Earn a Minnesota CDL in 4 Steps
Follow this official Minnesota DVS roadmap to secure your commercial driver's license.
Pass DOT Physical and Obtain Medical Certificate
Undergo an exam by an FMCSA-registered medical examiner and submit your Form MCSA-5876 self-certification to Minnesota DVS.
Pass DVS Written Knowledge Tests for Your CLP
Study the Minnesota Commercial Driver Manual and pass General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination exams at a DVS exam station.
Complete FMCSA-Certified ELDT Truck Driver Training
Enroll in an approved ELDT provider to complete classroom theory and behind-the-wheel range and road commercial vehicle training.
Pass the DVS Practical Skills Test and Pay License Fees
Pass the pre-trip inspection, basic backing maneuvers, and public road driving exam to receive your official Minnesota CDL.
Frequently Asked Questions (8 Questions Answered)
Q1: How long does it take to get a CDL in Minnesota?
Most full-time students complete truck driving school, obtain their CLP, and pass the DVS road skills exam within 4 to 8 weeks.
Q2: Can an 18-year-old get a CDL in Minnesota?
Yes. Drivers aged 18 to 20 can obtain an intrastate CDL (K restriction), allowing them to operate commercial motor vehicles solely within Minnesota state borders.
Q3: What is the ELDT requirement for Minnesota CDL applicants?
Federal law requires all new CDL applicants to complete an FMCSA-registered Entry-Level Driver Training program before taking the state road skills test.
Q4: How much does truck driving school cost in Minnesota?
Tuition for an accredited Minnesota truck driving school generally ranges from $3,500 to $7,000 for Class A training programs.
Q5: How many days must you hold a Minnesota CLP before road testing?
You must hold your Minnesota Commercial Learner's Permit for a minimum of 14 calendar days before you are legally permitted to take the DVS road test.
Q6: What happens if you fail a section of the Minnesota CDL road test?
If you fail one segment (such as basic controls), you must wait at least 7 days before retesting and will only be required to retake the failed segment at many DVS sites.
Q7: Do I need a CDL to drive a dump truck in Minnesota?
Yes. Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more requires at least a Class B CDL.
Q8: How do I self-certify my medical card in Minnesota?
You can self-certify your medical examiner's certificate online through the Minnesota DVS e-Services portal or by mailing a copy to the DVS CDL Unit in St. Paul.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding how to get a cdl in mn? provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.