Getting a CDL License

What’s the 1st step in getting a Commercial Drivers License (CDL)?

 

The first thing you need to do is take your written permit tests in order to get your CDL permit.CDL manuals contain all of the information you need to pass the written tests. Manuals are available at www.mncdlmanual.com . In order to obtain a Class B permit you will need to take two tests:

  1. General Knowledge
  2. Air Brakes

Study sections 1, 2, 3, and 5 in the Minnesota CDL manual to prepare for the Class B permit test.

To get a Class A permit you need to take these tests:

  1. General Knowledge
  2. Air Brakes
  3. Combination

Study sections 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 in the Minnesota CDL manual to prepare for the Class A permit test.

When you study the manual, make sure you can answer the “test your knowledge” questions you will see every few pages.

If you make sure you can answer these questions you should have no problem with the written tests.  There is no charge for taking the written tests once or twice.  If you need to take the tests a third time then the state starts to charge you $10.00 for each additional test.

There are several state exam stations around the state.  You can find the location of the exam stations at  http://www.mndriveinfo.org

Exam stations in the twin cities include:

  • Eagan (2070 Cliff Road)
  • Arden Hills (35 W & Co. Road I)
  • Plymouth (2455 Fernbrook Lane)
  • Anoka (530 W. Main), and
  • Chaska (48 Pine St. S.)
  • Town Square in Downtown St. Paul (445 Minnesota Street)

These exam stations are open five days per week.

The Hastings exam station is open four days a week.

Once you have passed the written tests, the state will give you a CDL permit (no charge for the permit.) The staff at the exam station will look up your driving record and then write a verification number on your permit.  If their computer is not working, you will have to call the MN Dept. of Public Safety at (651) 297-5029 later to get a verification number to make the permit valid. The permit must be carried with you whenever you drive a commercial vehicle and is valid for 6 months.

You do not need to have your permit to start training with us but you will need to get it soon after your start.  We can help you with study materials and practice tests at our office after you have enrolled.

Students with permits from other states are permitted to take training with us but you must test in the state you have your license in.  We work with students from Wisconsin on a regular basis and provide our trucks for tests in Wisconsin for them.

Students from other states that already have their CDL are welcome to take training from us.  Students that do not have their CDL when they start training would need to establish a Minnesota residency in order to take their road test here in Minnesota. After receiving a Minnesota CDL you would be able to transfer you CDL back to your original state without having to take another road test.