Getting a Class A CDL in Minnesota requires several steps, including obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), completing applicable Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), gaining behind-the-wheel experience, and passing the CDL skills test. The process can vary depending on your experience, training program, and the type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive.

If you’re considering a career in trucking, understanding these requirements before choosing a CDL school can help you compare training options, costs, equipment, and the amount of behind-the-wheel instruction included.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about CDL training in Minnesota, so you can confidently choose the right path. 

What is a Class A CDL?

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License allows drivers to operate combination vehicles with a gross combination weight of 26,001 pounds or more when the vehicle or vehicles being towed exceed 10,000 pounds. This commonly includes tractor-trailers and other heavy combination vehicles. A Class B CDL generally applies to a single vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more, with any towed vehicle weighing 10,000 pounds or less. If your goal is to drive tractor-trailers or other qualifying combination vehicles, a Class A CDL provides the appropriate license classification.

How Do You Get a Class A CDL in Minnesota?

To get a Class A CDL in Minnesota, you generally need to meet the applicable licensing requirements, obtain a Class A Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete required Entry-Level Driver Training, hold your permit for the required period, and pass the CDL skills test.

FMCSA currently requires CLP holders to possess their permit for at least 14 days before becoming eligible for the skills test.

Here’s the full breakdown: 

1. Determine Your CDL Eligibility and Requirements 

Before beginning the Class A CDL process you must: 

• Hold a valid driver’s license
• Determine the CDL class and endorsements you need
• Review Minnesota’s CDL eligibility and identification requirements
• Determine whether your type of commercial driving requires DOT medical certification

Medical requirements can vary depending on the type of commercial driving you intend to perform, so applicants should review Minnesota and federal requirements before testing or beginning employment.

2. Get Your Class ACommercial Learner’s Permit 

For a Minnesota Class A permit, applicants generally need to prepare for the applicable knowledge tests, including General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles. Class A Leasing identifies these as the primary permit tests for students pursuing a Class A license.

Steps include:   

• Studying the Minnesota CDL manual
• Taking the required knowledge tests
• Obtaining your Commercial Learner’s Permit
• Completing additional endorsement requirements if applicable

Federal CDL requirements currently require applicants to possess their Commercial Learner’s Permit for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. Applicants who are subject to ELDT must also complete the applicable training before taking the skills test.

3. Enroll in a Truck Driving School 

Once you have your permit, CDL training helps you develop the knowledge and behind-the-wheel skills needed for the skills test and commercial driving.

A qualified CDL training program, like Class A Leasing, will provide: 

• ELDT theory training
• Pre-trip inspection preparation
• One-on-one behind-the-wheel instruction
• Range and road training
• CDL skills test preparation
• Road test support

This step is critical and your experience here directly impacts how prepared you are for the road and your first job. 

4. Complete ELDT

Entry-Level Driver Training, or ELDT, establishes federal training requirements for first-time Class A and Class B CDL applicants, drivers upgrading from a Class B to a Class A CDL, and certain first-time endorsement applicants. Drivers subject to ELDT must complete the applicable training with a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry before taking the required CDL skills test.

5. Pass the CDL Skills Test

The CDL skills test evaluates whether you can safely inspect, control and operate the type of commercial vehicle associated with the license you are seeking. You’ll complete three parts: 

• Pre-trip inspection (vehicle safety knowledge)  
• Basic controls test (backing and maneuvering)
• Road test (operating the commercial vehicle safely on public roads) 

6. Get Your CDL & Start Your Career

After passing, you’ll receive your CDL and can begin applying for jobs. Many truck driving schools in Minnesota offer job placement assistance, helping graduates transition quickly into the workforce.What Jobs Can You Get?

Does the Truck You Use for Your CDL Test Matter?

Yes. The type of commercial vehicle used for your CDL skills test can affect restrictions placed on your license. For example, drivers who take the skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission receive an “E” restriction that prevents them from operating commercial vehicles with manual transmissions.

Before choosing a CDL training program, ask what types of trucks are available for training and testing and whether the equipment aligns with the commercial vehicles you expect to drive after licensing.

Class A Leasing offers both manual and automatic transmission training vehicles. The school states that students who successfully test in one of its qualifying manual trucks can obtain their Class A or Class B CDL without an automatic-transmission restriction.

Do You Need a Truck for the CDL Road Test?

CDL applicants must take the skills test in an appropriate commercial vehicle for the license class they are pursuing. When comparing training programs, find out whether use of a testing vehicle, transportation to the test, insurance and additional test attempts are included or charged separately.

Class A Leasing includes road-test support with its school plans, including DMV scheduling, transportation and insurance for included road tests

What’s Covered in CDL Training?

CDL training programs combine classroom learning and hands-on driving to prepare you for both the CDL test and real-world trucking jobs. When comparing CDL training programs, pay close attention to the amount and format of behind-the-wheel instruction included. Some programs divide driving time among multiple students, while others provide individual instruction. Understanding how driving hours are structured can help you compare the actual hands-on experience included in tuition.

Here’s what a quality truck driving school will cover: 

Classroom Instruction

• Minnesota CDL laws and federal regulations  
• Hours of Service (HOS) rules 
• Safety and compliance
• Trip planning and logbooks  

Behind-the-Wheel CDL Training

This is the most important part of any CDL program. 

You’ll learn: 

• Straight-line, offset, and alley docking  
• Turning and lane control  
• Shifting (manual or automatic transmissions)  
• Coupling and uncoupling trailers  

Students should also consider whether they want to train and test in a manual or automatic commercial vehicle. Under federal CDL rules, taking the skills test in an automatic vehicle results in a restriction against operating manual-transmission commercial vehicles. Class A Leasing offers both manual and automatic transmission options, allowing students to select training based on the type of commercial vehicle they expect to operate.

Pre-Trip Inspection Training

You’ll be trained to: 

• Inspect brakes, tires, lights, and engine components  
• Identify safety issues before driving 
• Pass the pre-trip portion of your CDL test  

Road Driving Experience

• City driving (traffic, turns, intersections)  
• Highway driving (speed control, merging)  
• Defensive driving techniques  

When comparing CDL schools, look at how much behind-the-wheel instruction is included and whether that time is shared or one-on-one. 

How Much Does It Cost to Get a CDL in Minnesota (and What’s Included)?

The cost of CDL training in Minnesota typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the amount of behind-the-wheel instruction, program length, equipment, road-test support and services included. When comparing prices, look beyond tuition alone and determine exactly what each training package covers.

Here’s what most CDL classes include: 

Standard Tuition Coverage

• Classroom CDL instruction  
• Behind-the-wheel training hours  
• Use of equipment for the CDL skills test
• Test preparation

Additional Value Some Schools Offer

• Permit test prep  
• One-on-one instruction time  
• Job placement assistance  
• Flexible or accelerated scheduling 

What to Watch Out For

Not all CDL schools are transparent. Be cautious of: 

• Extra fees for drive time  
• Charges for using equipment on test day
• Limited access to instructors or trucks  

The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Value comes from driving time and job readiness. 

Class A Leasing Classes and Cost

Class A Leasing offers several CDL training options based on a student’s existing experience and training needs. Current school plans range from an Express option through more extensive behind-the-wheel programs, with several plans priced under $5,000

• Express School Plan: $1,980
• School Plan One: $3,480
• School Plan Two: $3,980
• School Plan Three: $4,980

What Should You Look for in a CDL Training Program Under $5,000?

When comparing CDL training programs under $5,000, evaluate the amount of hands-on instruction, testing support and services included in tuition. At Class A Leasing, this approach is core to the program, helping students become confident, job-ready drivers in just a few weeks. 

When comparing CDL schools in Minnesota, look for: 

Behind-the-Wheel Training

CDL students who get more behind-the-wheel time develop stronger driving skills and greater confidence on the road. Look for CDL training programs that offer flexible options for behind-the-wheel time, so you can choose the plan that fits your goals. Class A Leasing offers four program options under $5,000 that all feature a range of exclusive one-on-one instructor time. 

Small Class Size

The best CDL programs keep class sizes small, so you get consistent, meaningful time behind the wheel, not waiting for your turn. At Class A Leasing, students benefit from small pre-trip group classes paired with dedicated one-on-one instruction behind the wheel. 

Training Schedule and Program Length

Top CDL programs, like Class A Leasing, are designed to move you from beginner to licensed driver in a matter of weeks, so you can start earning sooner. 

Preparing for Employment After CDL Training

CDL training prepares students for licensing, but employer requirements can vary based on driving experience, endorsements, medical qualifications, route type and the equipment being operated. When comparing schools, ask whether they provide employer connections, job-search resources or guidance for entering the commercial driving industry.

All-Inclusive Pricing

Look for CDL programs that clearly outline what’s included in tuition, no hidden fees and no unexpected add-ons. In Minnesota, the best CDL training programs under $5,000 prioritize hands-on driving experience, efficient timelines, and real job placement outcomes, not just getting you through the test. Class A Leasing’s most popular class is priced at $3,980 and offers up to 40 hours of pre-trip group classes and 14 hours of one-on-one driving instruction in a condensed timeframe. 

How to Choose a CDL Training School in Minnesota

CDL training programs can differ significantly in how instruction, driving time, equipment and road-test preparation are structured.

The top things to consider when looking for a CDL training program: 

• Is the provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry?
• How many behind-the-wheel hours are included?
• Is driving instruction one-on-one or shared?
• Are both manual and automatic vehicles available?
• What type of vehicle will be used for the CDL skills test?
• Are pre-trip classes included?
• Is use of the testing vehicle included?
• How many test attempts are included?
• Are scheduling, transportation and insurance included?
• Are all program costs clearly disclosed?

Class A Leasing & Minnesota Truck and Trailer School provides CDL training in Blaine, Minnesota, with programs for Class A and Class B applicants. Training options include online ELDT theory, pre-trip instruction, one-on-one behind-the-wheel training, manual and automatic transmission vehicles, and road-test support. Students can choose among multiple training plans based on their previous experience and the amount of behind-the-wheel instruction they need. Connect with Class A Leasing today to get started! 

Get Started With Class A Today

FAQs About CDL Training in Minnesota

How Long do CDL Classes Take in Minnesota?

Most CDL training programs take 3–6 weeks, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. 

Do I Need Experience Before Enrolling in a Truck Driving School?

No. CDL training is designed for beginners with no prior experience. 

Is CDL Training Worth it?

Yes. Many CDL drivers in Minnesota earn between $50,000 and $80,000+ per year, making it a strong long-term career investment. 

Can I get Hired Right After CDL School?

Yes. Many trucking companies actively recruit from CDL training programs and hire new drivers immediately. 

What Should I Look For in CDL Classes?

• High driving time  
• Small class sizes  
• Transparent pricing  
• Job placement support