How to Get a Class B License in MN?
Obtaining a Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Minnesota authorizes drivers to operate heavy single straight trucks, municipal snowplows, cement mixers, dump trucks, and large 40-foot commercial passenger transit buses weighing 26,001 or more pounds. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DPS-DVS), securing a Class B CDL requires clearing a DOT medical exam, completing federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing state knowledge tests, and proving vehicle mastery on a comprehensive road skills evaluation.
Class B Licensing Parameters and DOT Medical Standards
In Minnesota, a Class B CDL permits the operation of any single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a trailer that does not exceed 10,000 pounds GVWR. If the towed trailer exceeds 10,000 pounds, a Class A license is required. Class B credentials represent an attractive commercial driving tier, offering robust local employment in city utilities, construction, and public transit without long over-the-road travel.
Before scheduling written permit examinations, applicants must pass a physical examination administered by a healthcare professional listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). Upon passing, the examiner issues a Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876). Drivers must submit this certificate along with their commercial medical self-certification form to Minnesota DVS, declaring their operational tier as non-excepted interstate or intrastate.
Compare Minnesota commercial vehicle classifications, weight limits, and driving authorizations:
| CDL Class | Vehicle Weight Thresholds | Permitted Commercial Fleet Units | Required Knowledge Exams |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class B CDL (Single) | Single unit 26,001+ lbs; Towed unit under 10,000 lbs | Dump trucks, city transit buses, refuse haulers, snowplows | General Knowledge, Air Brakes (if vehicle equipped) |
| Class B with Passenger (P) | Single unit 26,001+ lbs configured for 16+ riders | Metro transit coaches, private charter buses | General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Passenger Transport |
| Class B with School Bus (S) | K-12 student transport vehicles over 26,001 lbs | District school buses, special education coaches | General Knowledge, Air Brakes, School Bus, Passenger |
| Class A CDL (Combination) | Combination 26,001+ lbs; Towed unit over 10,000 lbs | Tractor-trailers, log haulers, oversized transport | General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles |
| Class C CDL (Specialized) | Under 26,001 lbs with HazMat or 16+ passengers | Specialized small chemical delivery, airport vans | General Knowledge, specialized endorsement exams |
Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) and Federal ELDT Training
To acquire a Class B Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) in Minnesota, drivers must visit an authorized DVS exam station. You must present your valid Minnesota Class D driver's license, proof of identity, Social Security card, DOT medical certificate, and pass a standard vision exam. You must then pass the computerized CDL General Knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher, plus the Air Brakes knowledge test if operating air-brake equipped commercial chassis.
Under the federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate, all new Class B applicants must complete a certified training curriculum registered on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). The Class B ELDT program covers classroom theory (vehicle systems, hours of service regulations, backing mechanics) and hands-on behind-the-wheel range driving. Your school transmits verification of completion to the federal registry before DVS allows you to schedule a road test.
Review standard testing, licensing, and training fees for a Minnesota Class B CDL:
| Expense Category | Regulatory Milestone | Administering Body | Average Cost Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| DOT Medical Card | NRCME certified physical examination | Certified Medical Provider | $75 to $130 |
| Commercial Learner Permit | General knowledge and air brake tests | Minnesota DPS-DVS Station | $10.50 permit fee |
| ELDT Class B Training | Classroom theory & range driving school | FMCSA Registered Academy | $2,000 to $4,500 tuition |
| DVS Road Skills Exam Fee | Pre-trip, backing control, on-road test | Minnesota DPS-DVS Examiner | Covered in initial test fee |
| Class B License Issuance | Commercial license valid for 4 years | Minnesota DPS-DVS Office | $44.50 to $54.50 |
| Endorsement Tests (P, S, H) | Specialized written and skills testing | Minnesota DPS-DVS Station | $2.50 to $5.00 each |
Passing the Minnesota DVS Three-Part Practical Road Test
The practical road test for a Minnesota Class B CDL is conducted at an official state DVS testing facility or by an authorized third-party testing organization. The evaluation starts with a thorough pre-trip vehicle inspection, where you must inspect the steering assembly, air brakes, suspension springs, tires, lug nuts, and lighting equipment, articulating the safety parameters of each component to the examiner.
Next, the basic vehicle control segment evaluates your precision backing through straight-line, offset, and 90-degree alley dock maneuvers without crossing boundary cones. Finally, during the on-road driving test, the examiner assesses lane discipline, progressive gear shifting, expressway merging, intersection navigation, and emergency roadside stops. Passing all three segments results in the immediate issuance of your Minnesota Class B CDL.
How to Obtain a Minnesota Class B License in 5 Steps
Follow these five strategic steps to complete training and secure your Class B CDL with Minnesota DVS.
Pass a DOT Medical Examination
Schedule a physical with a certified NRCME medical examiner and file your medical certificate with Minnesota DVS.
Obtain a Class B Commercial Learner Permit
Pass the CDL General Knowledge and Air Brakes written exams at a local Minnesota DVS exam station.
Complete Certified ELDT Training
Enroll in and graduate from an FMCSA-approved commercial driving program registered on the Training Provider Registry.
Practice Behind-the-Wheel Driving for 14 Days
Log required training hours operating a Class B vehicle alongside a licensed commercial driver.
Pass the Pre-Trip, Backing, and Road Exam
Demonstrate vehicle inspection, backing control, and safe highway driving at an authorized DVS testing site.
Frequently Asked Questions (8 Questions Answered)
Q1: What can you drive with a Class B license in Minnesota?
A Minnesota Class B CDL permits driving heavy straight trucks, dump trucks, cement mixers, garbage trucks, and commercial city transit buses.
Q2: How much does it cost to get a Class B CDL in MN?
Total costs typically range from $2,200 to $4,800, which covers driving school tuition, medical physical, permit, and licensing fees.
Q3: Can a Class B driver pull a trailer in Minnesota?
Yes, a Class B driver can pull a trailer as long as the trailer's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is 10,000 pounds or less.
Q4: How long does it take to get a Class B license in MN?
Most Class B truck driving courses take between 2 and 4 weeks of dedicated classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction.
Q5: Can you get a Class B CDL in Minnesota without an air brake restriction?
Yes, taking your written air brake knowledge exam and testing in a vehicle equipped with full air brakes removes the air brake restriction.
Q6: What is the minimum age to get a Class B license in Minnesota?
You must be at least 18 years old for an intrastate Class B license (inside Minnesota), and at least 21 years old for interstate commerce.
Q7: How long is a Minnesota Class B CDL valid?
A standard commercial driver's license in Minnesota is issued for four years and renews on the driver's birthday.
Q8: Can you upgrade from a Class B to a Class A in Minnesota?
Yes, upgrading to Class A requires completing Class A ELDT training, passing the combination knowledge test, and passing a Class A road test.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding how to get a class b license 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.