Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of CDL Training in Minneapolis, Rochester, and St. Paul.
Are you looking to start a career in commercial driving?
CDL Training in Minnesota is your first step towards a rewarding profession.
This article will guide you through the top CDL programs in the state, highlighting their unique features, benefits, and how they can help you secure a job in the trucking industry.
Commercial Driver Academy – Comprehensive CDL Training Program
Are you looking to kickstart your career as a professional truck driver quickly? Commercial Driver Academy in Minnesota is designed to help you achieve that in just six weeks. This academy partners with local employers and organizations, providing you with excellent job placement opportunities once you complete your training.
Highlights of Commercial Driver Academy:
- Experienced Instructors: Gain knowledge from seasoned professionals in the trucking industry.
- Tailored Training: The curriculum is customized to meet your specific learning needs.
- Partnership Opportunities: Access financial aid options such as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
- Veteran Benefits: Military CDL waivers are available, possibly allowing you to skip the road test requirement.
Given the high demand for CDL drivers, noted by the academy with 134,827 online job openings between August 2020 and January 2021, this program could be your gateway to a lucrative career.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College – Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)
The Minnesota State Community and Technical College offers an ELDT program that balances theoretical and practical learning, ensuring you are well-prepared for the CDL exam.
Program Details:
- Class A CDL Program: 20-30 hours of self-paced online theory, supplemented by 20 hours of hands-on training.
- Class B CDL Program: 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training along with online theory classes.
- Multiple Locations: Available in Detroit Lakes, Moorhead, and Wadena for convenient access.
Important Prerequisites:
- Commercial Learners Permit (CLP)
- DOT Health Card
This program meets all FMCSA regulations, providing comprehensive preparation for a long-term career in trucking. For more detailed information, you can reach out directly to the college.
Minnesota State – Commercial Driver Academy
For a collaborative training approach, consider the Minnesota State Commercial Driver Academy, which partners with multiple colleges, including Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Saint Paul College, and Dakota County Technical College.
Key Features:
- Structured Six-Week Program: Two weeks of online instruction and four weeks of hands-on training.
- Low Student-To-Instructor Ratio: Ideal 1:4 ratio for personalized attention.
- Industry Partnerships: Equipment and job opportunities are provided through partners like Cemstone, Taylor Truck Line, and Dart Transit.
This academy is FMCSA-registered, ensuring you get quality training that meets industry standards.
Class A Leasing Truck Driving School – CDL Training Program
Class A Leasing prides itself on over 35 years of industry experience, offering a robust CDL training program that has graduated over 50,000 students.
Why Choose Class A Leasing:
- Personalized Instruction: Training in both manual and automatic trucks.
- Comprehensive Program: 160 hours of focused training covering basic control skills and on-road driving.
- High Employability: Graduates are highly sought after by top trucking companies.
While some experience is required for enrollment, this training program is ideal for those looking to secure a CDL quickly and efficiently.
Interstate Truck Driving School – Class A CDL Training Program
Interstate Truck Driving School offers a flexible CDL training program that can be completed in around four weeks, depending on your progress.
Program Benefits:
- Employment Offers: Written job offers from various trucking companies even before training completion.
- Veterans Support: Use of VA educational benefits.
- FMCSA Compliant: Ensures thorough preparation for the CDL road test.
Training programs start weekly, making it convenient for you to begin your CDL journey as soon as you’re ready.
Ridgewater College – Truck Driver Training
Ridgewater College provides a structured Truck Driver Training program that aligns with FMCSA Entry Level Driver Training regulations. The program combines online theory with practical driving practice.
Program Highlights:
- Blended Learning: Online theory course followed by 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
- Real-World Skill Development: Practice in simulators and real trucks, focusing on crucial trucking skills.
- Prerequisites:
- Valid Class A driving permit
- DOT physical card
- Drug/alcohol screening
This training ensures you meet all regulatory standards and gain the necessary skills to excel in your trucking career.
Minnesota State College Southeast – Truck Driving CERT
The Minnesota State College Southeast in Winona offers a 20-credit Truck Driving CERT program with a focus on individualized training.
Key Aspects of the Program:
- Low Student-To-Instructor Ratio: Ensures personalized instruction and attention.
- Employer Connections: Links with industry employers who provide tuition reimbursement and signing bonuses.
- Excellent Job Placement Rate: Graduates enjoy a 100% job placement rate in various trucking roles.
For those interested in a solid training foundation with guaranteed job placement, this certificate program stands out as a worthy option. Contact the college directly for more details.
With these comprehensive and well-regarded programs, you have multiple excellent options to choose from for CDL Training in Minnesota. Evaluate your needs, look into each program, and take the next steps toward a rewarding career in commercial driving by enrolling in the program that fits you best.
Alexandria Technical & Community College – Professional Truck Driver Certificate
Alexandria Technical & Community College offers a specialized Professional Truck Driver Certificate program. This program incorporates practical training with diverse types of vehicles such as forklifts, straight trucks, and tractor-trailers.
Key Features:
- Hands-On Experience: Students receive hands-on training, enhancing their driving skills with different types of commercial vehicles.
- Flexible Start Dates: Classes begin in January and August, providing options to fit your schedule.
- Job Placement Support: The program includes valuable job placement assistance and the possibility of paid internships.
- Financial Aid: Eligible students may receive financial aid and GI Bill support, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder your career start.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers in driving, dispatch, operations management, and safety.
For detailed information on program costs and schedules, contact Alexandria Technical & Community College directly.
Cook County Higher Education – CDL Training Programs
Cook County Higher Education addresses the demand for drivers through its CDL Training Programs for both Class A and Class B-Bus.
Program Details:
- Class A Program: This involves a mix of online and in-person classes, along with extensive behind-the-wheel training.
- Class B-Bus Program: Structured similarly, this program focuses specifically on driving passenger buses.
- Essential Training Components: Both programs include DOT physicals and drug testing to ensure students meet all regulatory requirements.
- Partnerships: Cook County Higher Education collaborates with Lake Superior College and Minnesota North College to enhance training delivery.
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be 18 years or older and possess a high school diploma or GED.
Contact Cook County Higher Education for comprehensive information on pricing and application procedures.
Local 49 Training Center – CDL Training Program
The Local 49 Training Center provides a thorough path to obtaining your CDL.
Important Steps:
- Commercial Learner Permit (CLP): The first step involves acquiring a CLP.
- Drug Testing: Undergo mandatory drug testing facilitated by the Training Center.
- Training Components: Participate in CDL Prep online instruction and practical behind-the-wheel training.
- Location Flexibility: Multiple locations across Minnesota offer convenient access to training centers.
Note: This center does not offer CLP knowledge test training. For pricings and further details, contact the Local 49 Training Center directly.
CES Minnesota LLC Trucking School – CDL Training Program
CES Minnesota LLC Trucking School is known for offering flexible and cost-effective CDL training solutions.
Program Highlights:
- Customizable Training: Hands-on programs are tailored to suit varying levels of experience.
- Flexible Scheduling: Options include evening and weekend classes, accommodating your busy schedule.
- Employability: Graduates are highly regarded by major trucking companies for their safety and proficiency.
- Financial Assistance: Various financial aid options are available to ease the burden of training costs.
For detailed information on tuition and enrollment, contact CES Minnesota LLC Trucking School directly.
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities – Commercial Driver Academy
The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Commercial Driver Academy offers a well-rounded CDL training program.
Features:
- Blended Learning Approach: Combines online theory and hands-on driving instruction.
- WIOA Alignment: Meets Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act requirements, offering potential tuition reimbursement.
- Industry-Endorsed: Training includes hazardous material endorsements.
- Flexible Scheduling: Courses are designed to accommodate both new drivers and employers’ needs.
For specific course costs and financial aid options, reach out directly to the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.
Choosing the Right CDL Training Program in Minnesota
When selecting the right CDL training program in Minnesota, consider these important factors:
Key Considerations:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited for credibility and compliance with industry regulations.
- Curriculum Quality: Look for a curriculum that includes both theoretical and practical training components.
- Instructor Experience: Opt for programs with seasoned and qualified instructors who bring real-world insights.
- Job Placement Rates: Research the job placement rates for graduates to gauge the program’s success in securing employment for its students.
- Student Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from current and former students to get authentic feedback.
- Financial Aid Options: Investigate financial assistance opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and tuition reimbursement programs.
- Industry Partnerships: Programs with strong ties to trucking firms often offer better job placement support and internship opportunities.
You may also want to contact alumni or visit the training facilities to get a clearer picture of the learning environment and resources available.
CDL Training By State
Conclusion: Start Your CDL Journey Today
Embarking on a career in commercial driving starts with selecting the right CDL training program. Minnesota offers a variety of top-tier programs catering to different needs and schedules. Whether you seek individualized instruction, flexible learning options, or strong job placement support, there is a program designed to meet your needs.
Take the next step towards a rewarding career in the trucking industry by enrolling in a program that fits your career goals and logistical needs. Start your CDL journey today!