Truck Training

What is the first thing I need to do to get a CDL?

You need to get a CDL permit by taking a written test at one of the state driver license exam stations. You do not need to have your permit to start training with us but you will need to concentrate on getting the permit as soon as you start training.  To enroll in one of our programs, simply come to our office to fill out some paperwork and take a drug test.  You can start your training that same day if you come in first thing in the morning.  You can enroll Monday thru Saturday at either our main campus in South St. Paul or at our St. Cloud  campus.

What is the difference between a Class A and a Class B CDL?

The Class A License allows you to drive trucks with trailers of any size.  A Class B license allows you to drive a truck of any size but you are not allowed to pull a large trailer behind a Class B truck.

If I have a Class A CDL can I drive a Class B?
Yes, but you cannot drive a Class A if you just have a B license.

Is a Health Card a requirement?
You do not need a health card to take training and you do not need a health card in order to get a CDL license if you paying for the training yourself and not employed at the time of training.  If you are employed and you are being paid for your time during the training then you need to have a valid health card with you.  In any case, it is a good idea to get your physical taken care of before you get your CDL.  The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is in the process of implementing new rules that will require proof of a valid health card when applying for or renewing a CDL license.  This change will take place soon.

Does Interstate Truck Driving School provide job placement?
Yes, Job Placement is available for students that complete our comprehensive programs that include the Entry Level Driver classroom and training in the larger manual transmission trucks.  We can get you pre-hired before you start your training if you meet the qualifications. 

If you only take training in a truck with an automatic transmission we cannot offer you job placement.

Are there any restrictions when testing with an automatic transmission?
No, some states have restrictions but Minnesota does not.   Auto shift transmissions are becoming more popular throughout the industry so there is no need to have such restrictions.

What size trucks and trailers does ITDS use for training and testing?
We have a lot of trucks.  We use city size trucks for the testing process for our short programs. Students that are taking our Professional Tractor Trailer Program will have their choice of manual transmission or automatic transmission trucks for their test.  The decision on which type of transmission to test with is dependant on which firm a student wants to go to work for with the complete the training. 

We have Class A testing trucks that are single axle with single trailers. We also have a single axle straight truck for class B training and contractor trailers that can be pulled by the straight truck for class A tests.   Let us know what kind or size of truck you want to learn to drive and we will do our best to accommodate you. We have trucks with 6 speed, 7 speed, 9 speed, 10 speed, and 13 speed transmissions and 44’, 48’, and 53’ trailers for training in our comprehensive programs.  Check out our photo gallery for a look at all of our trucks.

We also have a bus available if you need a passenger endorsement on your license.  It is a 45 passenger coach with automatic transmission.

How long is a CDL permit valid?
6 months from the date you obtain your permit.  You may also take one road test on an expired permit.

Is Interstate Truck Driving School ATA accredited?
Interstate Truck Driving School is licensed by the MN Department of Public Safety which is the agency that regulates commercial schools in Minnesota. We use PTDI approved materials which is the best available training source in the industry.  Rules that have been proposed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will require all truck driving school to become accredited and we have begun that process (it takes two years to receive accreditation).  While accreditation will open up some avenues of financing, it will drive up the cost of our courses. We expect to be accredited in 2012.
What methods of payment are acceptable?
Cash or check on the first appointment. VISA,  Master card,  or Discover prior to the first appointment.

Which locations does Interstate Driving Academy utilize for their road tests?
We provide vehicles for road tests at the Eagan and St. Cloud exam stations.  We have limited success at other exam stations so we concentrate on the two locations we feel we receive the best service and consistent testing. 

Is there a guarantee?
We cannot guarantee you will pass your CDL test the first time (state rules prohibit us from making such a guarantee), but our customers achieve a higher pass rate than the state average.  We will guarantee you will be fully prepared and you will have practiced everything that you will be tested on.

We will also do everything we can to make sure you receive a fair test from the state.  We are passionate about making sure everyone is treated fairly and equally by the State of Minnesota.  We have a good working relationship with the exam staff and supervisors so we are confident that we can provide you with access to a fair test.