Truck Driver Career Guide in Minnesota
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Minnesota.
Career Guide Navigation
How to Become a Truck Driver in Minnesota
Minnesota CDL programs teach inspections, backing, combination-vehicle operation, air brakes, shifting, defensive driving, winter operation, cargo securement, and hours-of-service compliance.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Truck Driver Salary in Minnesota
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Minnesota median wage for truck driver workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $57,440, the median wage in Minnesota is approximately $4,550 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Minnesota
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONTruck Driver Training Requirements in Minnesota
Minnesota tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and must complete federal Entry-Level Driver Training before taking the skills test.
- Meet Minnesota identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical requirements.
- Pass required knowledge examinations and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete ELDT theory, range, and public-road instruction with a registered provider.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and on-road CDL skills tests.
- Complete endorsement testing and employer instruction for winter driving and specialized cargo.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Minnesota
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota State Community and Technical College | Moorhead | View Program |
| Alexandria Technical and Community College | Alexandria | View Program |
| Riverland Community College | Austin | View Program |
| Dakota County Technical College | Rosemount | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESTruck Driver Apprenticeship Programs in Minnesota
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Minnesota
Minnesota heavy and tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete federally required ELDT, satisfy medical requirements, and pass Minnesota CDL knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Minnesota
Minnesota projects employment to increase from approximately 41,290 drivers in 2022 to 42,670 in 2032, representing 3% growth and about 4,350 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the truck driver salary in Minnesota?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Minnesota is approximately $61,990 per year, or $29.80 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Minnesota require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Minnesota requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt truck driver work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Minnesota?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 3–6 Months + OJT, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are truck drivers in demand in Minnesota?
Minnesota projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 3% from 2022 to 2032, with about 4,350 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Minnesota Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Minnesota Truck Driver Wages
- Minnesota Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Minnesota Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services — Licensing authority. Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services