Minnesota CDL Requirements

Age Requirements for Minnesota CDL

Minnesota follows federal age minimums with options for intrastate driving:

Minimum Age Requirements

• 18 years old: Eligible for Minnesota CDL or CLP with intrastate (Minnesota-only) driving restriction
• 21 years old: Required for interstate driving, hazardous materials transport, and passenger transport

Age Requirements by License Class

• Class A CDL: 18+ (intrastate), 21+ (interstate)
• Class B CDL: 18+ (intrastate), 21+ (interstate)
• Class C CDL: 18+ (intrastate), 21+ (interstate)

Knowledge Test Requirements

To obtain a Minnesota Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), you must pass written knowledge tests at a DVS exam station.

General Prerequisites

• Valid Minnesota Class D driver's license
• Proof of citizenship/identity and lawful presence
• Proof of Minnesota address
• DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate (if required)

Required Knowledge Tests

Test Topics Covered

• Vehicle inspection and pre-trip procedures
• Basic vehicle control and shifting techniques
• Safe driving practices and space management
• Air brake systems operation
• Combination vehicle dynamics
• Cargo securement and weight laws
• Hazard perception and emergency procedures
• Hours of service regulations

Tests are computer-based with 80% passing score required. After two failures, a $10 retest fee applies.

Skills Test Requirements

The CDL skills test consists of three parts and must be completed after holding a CLP for the required waiting period.

Skills Test Components

1. Pre-Trip Inspection: Demonstrate knowledge of vehicle safety systems and inspection procedures
2. Basic Vehicle Control: Backing maneuvers, turning, offset backing, alley dock
3. On-Road Driving: Traffic interaction, lane changes, turns, railroad crossings

Vehicle Requirements

You must test in a vehicle representative of your desired license class and endorsements. Testing in different vehicles results in restrictions:

• L Restriction: No air brake equipped CMV
• E Restriction: No manual transmission CMV
• O Restriction: No tractor-trailer CMV
• K Restriction: Intrastate only

Medical Certification Requirements

Most Minnesota CDL holders must meet federal DOT medical standards.

Who Needs DOT Physical

Drivers who self-certify as:

• Interstate – Non-Excepted
• Intrastate – Non-Excepted

Medical Certificate Details

• Must be performed by provider on National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners
• Valid for up to 24 months (varies by medical condition)
• 30-day grace period in Minnesota before CDL downgrade
• Must keep current certificate on file with DVS

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Federal ELDT requirements apply to certain CDL applications in Minnesota.

Who Must Complete ELDT

• First-time Class A or B CDL applicants
• Upgrading from Class B to Class A
• First-time P, S, or H endorsement applicants

ELDT Components

• Theory Training: Classroom or online instruction
• Behind-the-Wheel Training: Range and public road practice
• Must use FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) approved provider
• Electronic completion certification required before testing

CDL Endorsements

Minnesota offers standard federal endorsements with state-specific testing procedures.

Testing Locations and Scheduling

Knowledge Tests

Available at DVS exam stations throughout Minnesota. Many locations offer walk-in testing for CLP knowledge tests.

Skills Tests

Conducted by:

• State DVS exam stations
• Approved third-party examiners
• CDL training schools

Skills tests typically require advance scheduling through the DVS online system.

Minnesota-Specific CDL Programs

Restricted CDL for Farm Service Industries

Minnesota offers a special restricted CDL for agricultural operations:

• Available for agri-chemical, custom harvesting, farm retail operations
• Requires one year of driving experience and good driving record
• Valid 180 days per 12-month period
• Cannot transport placardable hazmat (except limited diesel fuel)

Military CDL Skills Test Waiver

Qualified military personnel with 2+ years of safe heavy vehicle operation may waive the skills test through DVS form submission.

Fees and Costs

Reciprocity and Transfers

Minnesota follows federal CDL reciprocity rules:

• Only one CDL allowed per person nationwide
• Minnesota recognizes valid out-of-state CDLs
• Must transfer CDL when becoming Minnesota resident
• Out-of-state permits not valid for testing in Minnesota

How to Apply for Minnesota CDL

Step 1: Obtain Commercial Learner's Permit

1. Study the Minnesota CDL Manual
2. Gather required documents (ID, citizenship proof, address proof)
3. Obtain DOT medical certificate if required
4. Visit DVS exam station
5. Pass knowledge tests
6. Pay CLP fee

Step 2: Complete Training (if required)

1. Enroll in ELDT-approved training program if required
2. Complete theory and behind-the-wheel training
3. Ensure training completion is recorded in TPR

Step 3: Take Skills Test

1. Hold CLP for required waiting period (typically 14 days)
2. Schedule skills test appointment
3. Bring appropriate test vehicle
4. Pass all three parts of skills test

Step 4: Receive CDL

1. Pay license and testing fees
2. Receive temporary license
3. Permanent license mailed within 7-10 business days

For the most current information and to begin your application, visit the Minnesota DVS CDL page.