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.

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.

How much does CDL training cost in St. Cloud, MN?

CDL training in St. Cloud, 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 St. Cloud?

Most CDL training programs in St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud, MN?

Yes, several CDL schools in the St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud 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 110 verified training programs serving the St. Cloud, Minnesota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in St. Cloud, MN

Are you looking for commercial driver training in St. Cloud?We have identified 110 FMCSA-verified programs serving the St. Cloud area (Pop: 68,881).

Quick Stats

110 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 68,881

Quick Facts: CDL Training in St. Cloud, 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

110

110 CDL Schools Near St. Cloud

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Top Picks in St. Cloud

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

C & L Distributing - SRM

Sauk Rapids, MN

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Scenic Sign Corp

Sauk Rapids, MN

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Holdingford, MN

19.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

ISD485 Royalton School District

Royalton, MN

19.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Albany Area Schools

Albany, MN

20 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 85 schools

CDL Training in St. Cloud, Minnesota

<div class="space-y-4"> St. Cloud, MN offers 110 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs 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. 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 St. Cloud schools. 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. </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near St. Cloud?

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 St. Cloud

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 St. Cloud: 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 St. Cloud

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
AELA FMCSA Verified	Maple Grove	Class AHazmat		View Details
Aksamit Transportation Inc. FMCSA Verified	Browerville	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Albany Area Schools FMCSA Verified	Albany	Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Allstates Pavement Recycling and Stabilization FMCSA Verified	Otsego	Class A	Evening Classes	View Details
Allstates Pavement Recycling and Stabilization FMCSA Verified	Belgrade	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
American Roofing Supply - Medina FMCSA Verified	Medina	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ancora for McLane Otsego FMCSA Verified	Otsego	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.	View Details
Anoco Metal FMCSA Verified	Princeton	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Anoco Metal Services FMCSA Verified	Princeton	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
BECKER PUBLIC SCHOOLS FMCSA Verified	Becker	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa ISD #2364 FMCSA Verified	Brooten	Class AClass B	Weekend Classes	View Details
Bergerson Caswell, Inc. FMCSA Verified	Maple Plain	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Bernick's - Waite Park FMCSA Verified	Waite Park	Class AHazmatTanker		View Details
Braham Bus Company Inc FMCSA Verified	Braham	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Brenny Specialized, Inc. FMCSA Verified	St Joseph	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in St. Cloud

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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DOT Physicals Near St. Cloud

Required for your CDL medical card

CareNow Urgent Care - East St. Cloud

5359 Medical Park Way, St. Cloud

(952) 144-9615

4.7

$112-$191

Walk-ins OK

GoHealth Urgent Care - St. Cloud

5852 Clinic Way, St. Cloud

(320) 506-4646

4.3

$100-$169

Physicians Immediate Care - Midtown St. Cloud

5189 Professional Dr, St. Cloud

(952) 608-1593

4.2

$106-$158

Walk-ins OK

View All 4 Clinics in St. Cloud All Locations

💡 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 St. Cloud

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 St. Cloud

How long does CDL training take in St. Cloud?

CDL training programs in St. Cloud, 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 St. Cloud without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud?

The CDL driver job outlook near St. Cloud, 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 St. Cloud?

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 St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud, MN

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in St. Cloud, MN

110 CDL Schools Near St. Cloud

Top Picks in St. Cloud

C & L Distributing - SRM

Scenic Sign Corp

Central Transport - 563

C & L Distributing - SRM

Scenic Sign Corp

Central Transport - 563

Bernick's - Waite Park

Tri-CAP, Inc. Transportation Department

Surface Preparation Technologies LLC (MN)

Knife River Sauk Rapids

Traut Companies

Voigt's Bus Service-St Augusta

Executive Express

Trobec's Bus Service, Inc.

Cemstone Becker, MN

Coldspring

Santiago, MN- NPGA

BECKER PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Richmond Bus Service

Fourpointo Bus Services

Holdingford Schools

ISD485 Royalton School District

Albany Area Schools

CDL Training in St. Cloud, Minnesota

Why Get CDL Training Near St. Cloud?

CDL Training Costs in Minnesota

Trucking Jobs Near St. Cloud

Compare CDL Schools in St. Cloud

Tuition Costs in St. Cloud

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Minnesota

DOT Physicals Near St. Cloud

CareNow Urgent Care - East St. Cloud

GoHealth Urgent Care - St. Cloud

Physicians Immediate Care - Midtown St. Cloud

CDL Testing & DVS in St. Cloud

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in St. Cloud

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)

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