Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in Minnesota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Truck Driver (CDL) in Minnesota
Estimated timeline: 21 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
Complete Commercial Driver's License self-certification form and provide a valid U.S.
- 3
Complete a Security Threat Assessment, including collection of fingerprints at time of adding HazMat endorsement, transferring from another state, upgrading to a higher class CDL, and at time of renewal.
- 4
Security Threat Assessment Application:.
- 5
-Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Application Fee: $86.50 Refer to TSA website for more information on the federal regulations.
- 6
-You must complete a Security Threat Assessment Application before submitting your fingerprints at an authorized collection site.
- 7
Online - visit Hazardous Materials Endorsement.
Continuing education and program notes
- certification form and provide a valid U
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,090 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Minnesota eligibility requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (Security Threat Assessment Application:.; -Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Application Fee: $86.50 Refer to TSA website for more information on the federal regulations.).
- 5. Submit the application to Minnesota Department of Public Safety and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Minnesota
With a median salary of $61,090, Truck Driver (CDL)s in Minnesota earn 6% above the national median of $57,440. Minnesota ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 21 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median annual salary
$61,090Hourly estimate
$29.376% above national median
Difference: +$3,650
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor Truck Driver (CDL) median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $64,890 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $64,720 |
| #3 | Washington | $63,760 |
| #4 | Oregon | $61,180 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $61,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Truck Driver (CDL) licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $61,090 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 21 years |
| Wisconsin | $57,380 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 21 years |
| Iowa | $55,080 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $56,880 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $58,970 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
444 Cedar Street, Town Square, St. Paul, MN, 55101
Phone: 6512826565
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $117,960 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $124,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $86,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $465,340 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Minnesota?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 21 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Minnesota is $61,090. Salaries range from $43,980 (10th percentile) to $80,860 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in Minnesota earn 6% above the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $61,090.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 38,530 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to Minnesota from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Review agency details at https://dps.mn.gov/Pages/default.aspx.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in Minnesota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.