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 13 verified training programs serving the Pequot Lakes, Minnesota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Pequot Lakes, MN

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Pequot Lakes?We have identified 13 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Pequot Lakes area (Pop: 10,000).

Quick Stats

13 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 10,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Pequot Lakes, 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
13

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Pequot Lakes, MN?

Students comparing CDL schools in Pequot Lakes, MN should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 13 training programsserving the Pequot Lakes area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

13 CDL Schools Near Pequot Lakes

Top Picks in Pequot Lakes

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Pine River-Backus Schools ISD 2174

Backus, MN

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Aitkin Public Schools

Aitkin, MN

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Staples-Motley School ISD 2170

Staples, MN

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Pine River-Backus Schools ISD 2174

Backus, MN
11.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Aitkin Public Schools

Aitkin, MN
27.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Staples-Motley School ISD 2170

Staples, MN
28.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Central Lakes College

Staples, MN
29.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Northland Community School

Remer, MN
37.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Nevis Public School

Nevis, MN
37.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Verndale Public School Dist. 818

Verndale, MN
37.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Walker Hackensack Akeley School Dist. 113

Walker, MN
37.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Little Falls Community Schools

Little Falls, MN
42.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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ISD 484 Pierz Schools

Pierz, MN
43.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Park Rapids Public Schools

Park Rapids, MN
43.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Onamia Public Schools

Onamia, MN
46.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Central MN Truck Academy

Royalton, MN
48.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified
+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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CDL Training in Pequot Lakes, Minnesota

Pequot Lakes, Minnesota offers 13 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you need a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, compare the programs below by tuition, training length, public enrollment status, and available endorsements. Full-time CDL training often takes 4-8 weeks, while part-time, evening, and weekend options may take longer. Before enrolling, confirm the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and ask whether the school offers job placement, manual transmission training, WIOA or veteran funding support, and behind-the-wheel practice that matches your target CDL class.

Why Get CDL Training Near Pequot Lakes?

  • 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 Pequot Lakes

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 Pequot Lakes: 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 Pequot Lakes

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 13 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Aitkin Public Schools
FMCSA Verified
Aitkin
Class AClass BHazmat
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Central Lakes College
FMCSA Verified
Staples
Class AClass BHazmat
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Royalton
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
ISD 484 Pierz Schools
FMCSA Verified
Pierz
Class AClass BTanker
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Little Falls
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Nevis Public School
FMCSA Verified
Nevis
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Remer
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Weekend Classes
Onamia Public Schools
FMCSA Verified
Onamia
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.
Park Rapids
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Backus
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Staples
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Verndale
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.
Walker
Class A
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved

Tuition Costs in Pequot Lakes

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

Good community college system.

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CDL Testing & DVS in Pequot Lakes

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local DVS office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find DVS Office

Required Online Compliance Training

Before driving for a fleet operating out of Pequot Lakes, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Pequot Lakes

How long does CDL training take in Pequot Lakes?
CDL training programs in Pequot Lakes, 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 Pequot Lakes without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Pequot Lakes 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 Pequot Lakes 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 Pequot Lakes?
The CDL driver job outlook near Pequot Lakes, 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 Pequot Lakes?
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 Pequot Lakes CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A, it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.