How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

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

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

How much does CDL training cost in Rochester, MN?

CDL training in Rochester, MN typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000, with an average of $5,000. Costs vary based on program type (private school vs. community college), training length, and included endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Rochester?

Most CDL training programs in Rochester take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Community college programs may take 8-16 weeks. Part-time and weekend programs are available for working adults and may extend the timeline. After training, you must pass the CDL skills test at your state DMV.

Are there weekend CDL classes in Rochester, MN?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Rochester area offer weekend and evening classes for students who cannot attend full-time programs. These flexible schedules allow working adults to earn their CDL without quitting their current job.

How do I verify a CDL school in Rochester 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's ELDT certification status there. Be wary of schools that cannot provide their TPR registration number or promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks.

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 15 verified training programs serving the Rochester, Minnesota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Rochester, MN

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Rochester?We have identified 15 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Rochester area (Pop: 121,395).

Quick Stats

15 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 121,395

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Rochester, 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

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Rochester, MN?

Students comparing CDL schools in Rochester, 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 15 training programsserving the Rochester area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

15 CDL Schools Near Rochester

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Top Picks in Rochester

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

BYRON SCHOOLS IDS 531

Byron, MN

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Pine Island Public School ISD #255

Pine Island, MN

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

RDL Training

Dodge Center, MN

Call Now

BYRON SCHOOLS IDS 531

Byron, MN

8.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Pine Island Public School ISD #255

Pine Island, MN

15.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

RDL Training

Dodge Center, MN

19.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Kingsland Schools ISD 2137

Spring Valley, MN

22.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Bluff Country School Bus Service INC.

Lake City, MN

31.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Riverland Community College Customized CDL Training

Austin, MN

34.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Cochrane Fountain City School

Fountain City, WI

36.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

27003 Red Wing School Bus

Red Wing, MN

38.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mn. State College Southeast

Winona, MN

42.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

College City Beverage

Dundas, MN

46.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Riverland Community College

Albert Lea, MN

49.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

The CMV Tutor LLC

ROCHESTER, MN

2.9 miles away

160 Driving Academy - Rochester MN - Classroom and Yard

Rochester, MN

4.1 miles away

CDL Training in Rochester, Minnesota

Rochester, Minnesota offers 15 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 Rochester?

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.

View all CDL schools in Minnesota

Trucking Jobs Near Rochester

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 Rochester: 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.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Rochester

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Rochester MN - Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Rochester	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
27003 Red Wing School Bus FMCSA Verified	Red Wing	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bluff Country School Bus Service INC. FMCSA Verified	Lake City	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
BYRON SCHOOLS IDS 531 FMCSA Verified	Byron	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Cochrane Fountain City School FMCSA Verified	Fountain City	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
College City Beverage FMCSA Verified	Dundas	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Kingsland Schools ISD 2137 FMCSA Verified	Spring Valley	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Mn. State College Southeast FMCSA Verified	Winona	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Pine Island Public School ISD #255 FMCSA Verified	Pine Island	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
RDL Training FMCSA Verified	Dodge Center	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Riverland Community College FMCSA Verified	Albert Lea	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Riverland Community College Customized CDL Training FMCSA Verified	Austin	Class AHazmat	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
The CMV Tutor LLC FMCSA Verified	ROCHESTER	Class AClass BHazmat	VA Approved	View Details
Triton Public School FMCSA Verified	Dodge Center	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Triton Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Dodge Center	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Rochester

Avg. Private School

$5,200

Avg. Public School

$3,500

Price Range

$3,000 - $6,600

Good community college system.

Nearby Cities

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Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

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DOT Physicals Near Rochester

Required for your CDL medical card

MD Now Urgent Care - Downtown Rochester

2465 Healthcare Dr, Rochester

(612) 125-7715

$91-$171

Walk-ins OK

OccuMed Clinic - North Rochester

9856 Industrial Pkwy, Rochester

(320) 602-1836

4.6

$123-$192

Concentra Urgent Care - North Rochester

2672 Executive Blvd, Rochester

(320) 295-8210

4.1

$119-$171

Walk-ins OK

View All 6 Clinics in Rochester All Locations

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

CDL Testing & DVS in Rochester

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

Find DVS Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Rochester

How long does CDL training take in Rochester?

CDL training programs in Rochester, 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 Rochester without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester?

The CDL driver job outlook near Rochester, 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 Rochester?

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 Rochester CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Minnesota, including training programs in Rochester and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

📚

Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Minnesota

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Rochester, MN

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Rochester, MN

How should students compare CDL schools in Rochester, MN?

15 CDL Schools Near Rochester

Top Picks in Rochester

BYRON SCHOOLS IDS 531

Pine Island Public School ISD #255

RDL Training

BYRON SCHOOLS IDS 531

Pine Island Public School ISD #255

RDL Training

Kingsland Schools ISD 2137

Bluff Country School Bus Service INC.

Riverland Community College Customized CDL Training

Cochrane Fountain City School

27003 Red Wing School Bus

Mn. State College Southeast

College City Beverage

Riverland Community College

The CMV Tutor LLC

160 Driving Academy - Rochester MN - Classroom and Yard

CDL Training in Rochester, Minnesota

Why Get CDL Training Near Rochester?

CDL Training Costs in Minnesota

Trucking Jobs Near Rochester

Compare CDL Schools in Rochester

Tuition Costs in Rochester

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Minnesota

DOT Physicals Near Rochester

MD Now Urgent Care - Downtown Rochester

OccuMed Clinic - North Rochester

Concentra Urgent Care - North Rochester

CDL Testing & DVS in Rochester

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Rochester

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

Related Resources