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CDL training in Minnesota
Free and low-cost CDL training in Minnesota
Public colleges with CDL programs, grants that can pay your tuition, and companies that will train you for free, with the official Minnesota links you need.
Public colleges and career centers with CDL training
These 4 public programs were checked on their own websites. Prices and schedules change, so confirm before you apply.
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Alexandria, MNClass A and B-CDL certificates; 2,000-2,500 miles logged; financial aid eligible.
Program page ↗Riverland Community College
Albert Lea, MNPaid 240-hour internship; FMCSA-registered ELDT provider.
Program page ↗Dakota County Technical College
MinnesotaCustomized Training division; not financial-aid eligible.
Program page ↗Minnesota programs that can help pay
- CareerForce Training Program Finder: Lists workforce-funded training that is free for eligible job seekers, including a no-cost CDL A/B program through Anoka County Job Training Center. Details ↗
Ways to get your CDL paid for
- WIOA grant. Visit a local American Job Center and ask about WIOA training funds. If you qualify (often people who are unemployed, laid off or on a low income), the grant can cover tuition at a school on the state’s approved training provider list.
- Company-paid training. The carriers below train new drivers. You usually agree to drive for them for 6 to 12 months, and may owe part of the cost if you leave early.
- Paid Class B training. School districts, transit agencies and bus companies in Minnesota often pay you while you train.
- GI Bill. Veterans can use GI Bill benefits for approved non-college programs, including truck driving school.
Trucking companies that train new drivers
Local jobs that train you for a CDL
Trucking companies based in Minnesota
- Dart Transit (Eagan), Truckload
Rules for app drivers in Minnesota
Statewide rideshare minimum of $1.28 per mile and $0.31 per minute with a rider. See our state pay laws guide.
Questions about getting a CDL in Minnesota
Can I get a CDL at 18 in Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota lets you hold a CDL at 18, but until you turn 21 you can only drive within the state and can’t haul hazardous materials. Many local jobs, like beverage and construction routes, hire 18 to 20 year olds.
Is there free CDL training in Minnesota?
Often, yes. If you qualify, a WIOA grant from your local American Job Center can pay tuition at an approved school. Several trucking companies also train new drivers for free in exchange for a work commitment, and many school districts and transit agencies pay you while you train for a Class B.
How much does CDL school cost in Minnesota?
Public programs listed above show prices from Class A $6,295; Class B $2,095-$3,995; ELDT theory $795, $7,736.08 est. tuition and fees, Class A $5,995. Ask about books, testing fees and the DOT physical, which may not be included.
How long does it take to get a CDL?
Most full-time Class A programs take 3 to 8 weeks. You also need a DOT medical card and a learner’s permit before behind-the-wheel training, and a skills test at the end.
Fuel prices, CDL schools, freight corridors and carriers near you.
Sources: official Minnesota licensing and workforce pages linked above, each school’s own program page, FMCSA, and EIA fuel prices (week of Nov 2, 2026). Checked Nov 9, 2026. Programs, prices and dates change, so confirm with the school before you apply.