CDL Truck Driver in Minnesota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MN
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Minnesota
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Minnesota, individuals must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) through the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing the CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test, and submitting an application with the required fees. Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 for interstate driving or transporting hazardous materials. Minnesota offers reciprocity for CDLs from other states, requiring new residents to transfer their license within 30 days.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Minnesota
| Detail | Minnesota |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test |
| Application Fee | $45 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate driving and 21+ for interstate driving or to transport hazardous materials. A valid DOT medical certificate and self-certification form are required. Fees are approximate: $26.75 for CLP, $45 for Class C, $52 for Class B, and $60 for Class A license renewal. Initial Class A is $65, Class B is $57, and Class C is $50. Skills test fees are paid to third-party providers and vary. Federal ELDT is required for new applicants. Endorsement examination fees are $2.50 each. Retesting fees are $10 for written tests (after failing the first two) and $20 for road tests (after failing the first two). |
License Tiers
Minnesota offers multiple tiers of cdl truck driver licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Class A | N/A |
| Class B | N/A |
| Class C | N/A |
CDL Truck Driver Salary in Minnesota
The median cdl truck driver salary in Minnesota is $61,090 per year, which is 6.4% above the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $43,980 |
| 25th | $49,940 |
| 50th (median) | $61,090 |
| 75th | $71,500 |
| 90th (experienced) | $80,860 |
Minnesota employs approximately 38,530 cdl truck drivers.
CDL Truck Driver Job Outlook
AI Impact on CDL Truck Drivers
Low AI Exposure (Score: -1.15/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a CDL Truck Driver in Minnesota Worth It?
Factors to consider: Minnesota's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.