Truck Driving Schools in Minnesota

Heavy truck drivers are critical to the growth and development of any economy. These professionals ensure that valuable goods and raw materials are successfully moved from one point to another, sometimes over great distances.

Truck drivers enjoy constant demand, highly notable monetary compensation, and other benefits in Minnesota. You have come to the right page if you’re considering a career as a heavy truck driver in Minnesota.

In the sections below, we have highlighted all the crucial information you must understand to make your journey smooth and straightforward. Not only will you discover the key steps and requirements, but you will also find a list containing only the top CDL schools to consider in the state and the possible salary projection at each point of your prospective career.

How to Become a Truck Driver in Minnesota

Below are the key requirements needed to become a truck driver in Minnesota.

Vehicular Classifications

Anyone looking to become a truck driver in Minnesota must be familiar with the vehicular classifications. They include:

• Class A vehicles have a gross combination weight rating greater than 26,000 pounds, and towing vehicles have a gross weight rating of over 10,000 pounds.
• Class B vehicles, which are single or combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 26,000 pounds, towing a vehicle that is 10,000 pounds or less, and
• Class C vehicles include any vehicle or combination meant to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Class C also applies to vehicles used to transport hazardous materials.

Additional Requirements

Aspiring truck drivers in Minnesota must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state and 21 years old to drive outside state lines and carry hazardous materials. They must also meet medical requirements and provide proof of citizenship in the state.

The CDL Test

The CDL test in Minnesota includes a knowledge test and a skills test. Candidates may be expected to take multiple knowledge tests, especially if they seek additional endorsements.

The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection test, a control skills test, and a road test.

Explore Trades with Similar Paths:

• Learn to become a plumber in Minnesota

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The common costs associated with getting a commercial driver’s license in Minnesota include $44.25 for regular class A CDL and $24.25 for applicants under 21.

Class B and C CDLs cost $36.25 and $29.25, respectively. Those who want additional endorsements must also be prepared to pay $2.5 for each endorsement.

A person with hearing and vision impairment will not qualify to become a truck driver in Minnesota. Candidates must also pass a blood pressure test, urinalysis, and physical impairment test.

After earning their commercial driver’s license, they can be lost by meeting disqualification criteria, including reckless driving, following vehicles ahead too closely, and making improper lane changes.

Top Truck Driving Schools in Minnesota

The following are some top destinations in Minnesota where you can receive training as an aspiring truck driver.

Explore truck driving schools in Minnesota by city:

• Truck Driving Schools in Minneapolis

Salary & Career Outlook

Minnesota truck drivers may fall among the bottom middle and top earners in the state depending on a few key factors. Some of the most important include experience, nature of the employer, specialty area, distance covered, and specific locations where a truck driver works within and outside of the state.

Those among Minnesota’s bottom 10% of truck drivers (by earnings) take home an annual average salary of $52,215, while those among the top 10% take home an annual average salary of $136,195.

Those among the midpoint earners take home an annual average salary of $84,329.

Regarding location, Blaine is the state’s highest-paying city for truck drivers, with an annual average salary of $138,721. It is followed by Minneapolis, with an annual average salary of $112,033; New Ulm, with an annual average salary of $90,727; Rosemount, with an annual average salary of $86,440; and Cottage Grove, where truck drivers earn an annual average salary of $84,965.