How much does CDL training cost in Thief River Falls, MN?

CDL training in Thief River Falls, 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 Thief River Falls?

Most CDL training programs in Thief River Falls 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 Thief River Falls, MN?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Thief River Falls 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 Thief River Falls 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 16 verified training programs serving the Thief River Falls, Minnesota area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Thief River Falls, MN

Name: CDL Schools in Thief River Falls, MN
Creator: CDL Schools USA
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Thief River Falls?We have identified 16 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Thief River Falls area (Pop: 30,000).

Quick Stats

16 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 30,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Thief River Falls, 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 Thief River Falls, MN?

Students comparing CDL schools in Thief River Falls, 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 16 training programsserving the Thief River Falls area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

16 CDL Schools Near Thief River Falls

CDL Training Market in Thief River Falls, MN (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools1
ELDT Verified1
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Thief River Falls have access to 1 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,200.

Many schools in Thief River Falls offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.

Many schools partner with major carriers to offer job placement assistance upon graduation.

*Data verified by CDL Schools USA via the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Last updated: December 2026.

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Thief River Falls Public Schools

Thief River Falls, MN

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Goodridge Public School

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CDL Training in Thief River Falls, Minnesota

Thief River Falls, Minnesota offers 16 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 Thief River Falls?

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 Thief River Falls

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 Thief River Falls: 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 Thief River Falls

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
All States Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Grand Forks	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Badger School FMCSA Verified	Badger	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Clearbrook-Gonvick School FMCSA Verified	Clearbrook	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Evening Classes	View Details
Climax-Shelly Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Climax	Class AClass BHazmat	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
CROOKSTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS FMCSA Verified	Crookston	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
East Grand Forks Public Schools FMCSA Verified	East Grand Forks	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
Fertile-Beltrami School Isd#599 FMCSA Verified	Fertile	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Fisher School FMCSA Verified	Fisher	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Fosston High School FMCSA Verified	Fosston	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Goodridge Public School FMCSA Verified	Goodridge	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Grygla School FMCSA Verified	Grygla	Class AHazmat	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Red Lake Public School - ISD 38 FMCSA Verified	Red Lake	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Sacred Heart School FMCSA Verified	East Grand Forks	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Thief River Falls Public Schools FMCSA Verified	Thief River Falls	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Win-E-Mac Public School FMCSA Verified	Erskine	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Thief River Falls

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 Thief River Falls

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 Thief River Falls, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.

DOT Reasonable Suspicion Hazmat Awareness Hazmat Recurrent Defensive Driving HIPAA for Couriers Heat Stress & Slip/Trip Dry Ice Handling HOS / ELD Compliance Lithium Battery Shipping Bloodborne Pathogens Cargo Securement FSMA Sanitary Transport Forklift Certification

View All Certification Courses

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Thief River Falls

How long does CDL training take in Thief River Falls?

CDL training programs in Thief River Falls, 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 Thief River Falls without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Thief River Falls 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 Thief River Falls 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 Thief River Falls?

The CDL driver job outlook near Thief River Falls, 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 Thief River Falls?

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

Complete CDL Training Guide for Thief River Falls Area Residents

While CDL training options directly in Thief River Falls are limited, there are excellent opportunities throughout Minnesota and nearby areas. Here's everything you need to know to start your trucking career.

CDL Jobs in Minnesota

Average Salary

$45,000 - $65,000

Key Industries

manufacturing, logistics, and distribution

In-Demand Specializations

Over-the-road (OTR)
Regional routes
Local delivery

Major Routes

Interstate highways

Top Employers

National carriers, regional trucking companies, Amazon, FedEx

Funding Options

WIOA grants through local workforce development

Nearby Cities with More Options

Consider these nearby cities with more FMCSA-verified CDL schools:

All Minnesota CDL Schools

Browse all cities

View All Minnesota Schools

Boost Your Earnings

After getting your CDL, consider these additional certifications to increase your earning potential:

☢️

Hazmat Endorsement Training

Get your hazardous materials endorsement

+$5,000-$10,000/yr

🛡️

Commercial Defensive Driving

Reduce points and insurance premiums

Lower insurance

📦

Cargo Securement Certification

Essential training for flatbed hauling

+$3,000-$8,000/yr

🏥

HIPAA for Medical Couriers

Certification for medical transport drivers

+$4,000-$7,000/yr

Find Your Perfect School

Minnesota CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate)
Hold a valid driver's license
Pass a DOT physical examination
Complete ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider
Pass CDL knowledge and skills tests

3-8

Weeks to complete

View Full Requirements

Can't Afford CDL School?

Many trucking companies offer FREE CDL training with employment commitment.

View Paid Training Programs

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Minnesota, including training programs in Thief River Falls 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 Thief River Falls, MN

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Thief River Falls, MN

How should students compare CDL schools in Thief River Falls, MN?

16 CDL Schools Near Thief River Falls

CDL Training Market in Thief River Falls, MN (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Thief River Falls

Thief River Falls Public Schools

Goodridge Public School

Grygla School

Thief River Falls Public Schools

Goodridge Public School

Grygla School

CROOKSTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Win-E-Mac Public School

Win-E-Mac Schools

Fertile-Beltrami School Isd#599

East Grand Forks Public Schools

Red Lake Public School - ISD 38

Fosston High School

Climax-Shelly Public Schools

Badger School

All States Driving Academy

CDL Training in Thief River Falls, Minnesota

Why Get CDL Training Near Thief River Falls?

CDL Training Costs in Minnesota

Trucking Jobs Near Thief River Falls

Compare CDL Schools in Thief River Falls

Tuition Costs in Thief River Falls

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Minnesota

CDL Testing & DVS in Thief River Falls

Required Online Compliance Training

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Thief River Falls

Complete CDL Training Guide for Thief River Falls Area Residents

CDL Jobs in Minnesota

Nearby Cities with More Options

Boost Your Earnings

Minnesota CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

Can't Afford CDL School?

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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