MNMinnesota CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services
- Official CDL page
- dps.mn.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- dps.mn.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- dps.mn.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
Minnesota's manual says CDL knowledge tests are given in English, on paper or computer, with headphones available to hear the questions read aloud.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Test languages
Minnesota's manual says CDL knowledge tests are given in English, on paper or computer, with headphones available to hear the questions read aloud.
- Learner permit (CLP)
A Minnesota CLP is valid for 180 days and can be renewed as long as the total stays within 1 year of first issue; hold it 14 calendar days before road tests.
- Knowledge tests
You may try each knowledge test once per day. After failing twice, the third and later knowledge tests cost $10 each and the third and later skills tests $20 each.
- Fees
Instruction permit $10.50; CDL license $57 (A), $49 (B), $32 (C) for drivers over 21; $2.50 per endorsement exam; $20 no-show fee for a missed road test.
- Age
You must be 18 with a valid Minnesota license to get a CLP; drivers under 21 are limited to intrastate driving, and hazmat generally requires 21.
- Also important
Minnesota counts actual loaded weight (not only GVWR) when deciding if a vehicle needs a CDL, and adding school bus or passenger endorsements needs a road test. New residents have 30 days to transfer a CDL.
State-only topics in the manual
- Part A: Minnesota CDL requirements — classes, endorsements, tests, fees, medical rules and a state information directory.
- Minnesota trucking regulations (seasonal road restrictions, designated highways).
- Part B: Minnesota School Bus Driver's Handbook.
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.