CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 17 verified training programs serving the Duluth, Minnesota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Duluth, MN

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Duluth?We have identified 17 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Duluth area (Pop: 90,884).

Quick Stats

17 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 90,884

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Duluth, MN

CDL License Types
Class A, Class B, Class C
Average Training Cost
$3,000 – $8,000
Program Length
3-8 weeks
Weekend / Evening Options
Available at select schools
FMCSA Registration Required
Yes
Verified Schools
17

17 CDL Schools Near Duluth

Top Picks in Duluth

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Hartel's Disposal LLC

Proctor, MN

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

ISD #704 Proctor Schools

Proctor, MN

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

ISD #704 Proctor Schools

Hermantown, MN

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Hartel's Disposal LLC

Proctor, MN
6.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

ISD #704 Proctor Schools

Proctor, MN
6.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

ISD #704 Proctor Schools

Hermantown, MN
7.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Dayton Freight Lines inc - DUL

Hermantown, MN
8.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Cloquet, MN - NPGA

Cloquet, MN
16.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Cloquet High School

Cloquet, MN
17 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

C & L Distributing - DMN

Cloquet, MN
17.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Wrenshall Independent School District 100

Wrenshall, MN
17.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Carlton County

Carlton, MN
20.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

School District of Maple

Poplar, WI
21.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

The Tool Chest

Alborn, MN
27.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Moose Lake, MN Schools

Moose Lake, MN
39.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Willow River Area School ISD 577

Willow River, MN
47.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Duluth, Minnesota

<div class="space-y-4"> <p><strong>Duluth, MN</strong> offers <strong>17 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs</strong> for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you're seeking a Class A CDL for tractor-trailer operation or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, the programs below are all registered in the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR)—the only database that counts for ELDT certification.</p> <p>CDL drivers in MN earn competitive salaries with strong job security. The national driver shortage continues to push starting pay higher, with many carriers offering signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for new CDL holders. Training typically takes 4-8 weeks for full-time students, with weekend and evening options available at select Duluth schools.</p> <p>Compare tuition costs, program length, and specializations below. Look for schools that offer hazmat endorsement training, tanker certification, and job placement assistance—these add immediate earning potential to your CDL. Read our guide on <a href="/blog/is-cdl-school-worth-it-2026" class="text-blue-600 hover:underline">whether CDL school is worth it in 2026</a> for a detailed cost-benefit analysis.</p> </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Duluth?

  • Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
  • Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
  • Financial Aid: Schools in Minnesota often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
  • ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Minnesota

CDL training in Minnesota typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

Trucking Jobs Near Duluth

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000
Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Minnesota
2,500+
Open trucking positions in Minnesota

Top employers hiring near Duluth: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Compare CDL Schools in Duluth

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 15 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.
Carlton County
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
VA Approved
Cloquet High School
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class AClass B
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Cloquet, MN - NPGA
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Hartel's Disposal LLC
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmatTanker
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BTanker
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
ISD 97
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
Class AClass BHazmat
Weekend Classes
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
The Tool Chest
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes

Tuition Costs in Duluth

Avg. Private School
$5,200
Avg. Public School
$3,500
Price Range
$3,000 - $6,600

Good community college system.

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DOT Physicals Near Duluth

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care - North Duluth

6835 Main St, Duluth
4.9
$117-$170
Walk-ins OK

CareNow Urgent Care - Duluth

5685 Clinic Way, Duluth
4.7
$79-$150
Walk-ins OK

Physicians Immediate Care - Downtown Duluth

2542 Commerce Blvd, Duluth
4.6
$63-$134
Walk-ins OK

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam costs ${55-150} and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & DVS in Duluth

395 S Lake Ave, Duluth, MN 55802

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Duluth DVS. Northern MN - CDL services

Visit Duluth CDL DVS

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Duluth

How long does CDL training take in Duluth?
CDL training programs in Duluth, MN typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.
How much does CDL school cost in Minnesota?
CDL training costs in Minnesota range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.
Can I get a CDL in Duluth without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Duluth area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.
How do I know if a CDL school in Duluth is legitimate?
All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.
Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?
Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.
Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Minnesota?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Minnesota: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.
What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Duluth?
The CDL driver job outlook near Duluth, MN is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Minnesota experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.
Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Duluth?
The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Duluth CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.