Workforce Development Solutions Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for each student participating in the Workforce Development Solutions Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training program at the College.

Definitions

Behind-the-Wheel Training

The one-on-one driving portion of CDL training. 

CDL Training

A structured program that includes both theory and behind-the-wheel instruction designed to prepare students for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License. 

Federal Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

A secure online database that provides real-time information about CDL drivers' drug and alcohol program violations. 

Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS)

The state department responsible for providing all vehicle and driver services in Minnesota. 

Re-enrollment Fee

A fee charged to students who do not complete training within specified timeframes and wish to continue in the program. 

Return-to-Duty Process

A federally mandated procedure for individuals who have violated drug and alcohol regulations and wish to resume safety-sensitive functions. 

Theory Training

The classroom or online portion of CDL training covering laws, safety and operational procedures. 

Policy

CDL Training Payment

All payments are due upon receipt of the invoice for CDL training. Full payment must be received before any CDL training can begin. 

CDL Training

Registration Requirements

To register for CDL training, students must submit all required documentation and pay in full.

Theory Training

Students must complete the CDL Theory Training within three (3) months of their registration date.

Failure to complete theory training within this timeframe will require a re-enrollment fee of $150.

If six (6) months have passed since the original payment date, students must pay the difference between the original payment and the current training cost.

If one (1) year has passed since the original payment date, a re-enrollment fee of $500 will be required.

Behind-the-Wheel Training

Students must complete behind-the-wheel training within three (3) months of completing their theory training. Failure to do so will result in a re-enrollment fee of $150.

If a student fails the initial road test, the student must complete an additional four (4) hours of training, including a skills test, beyond the standard driver's education program before being eligible for a retest with the College.

Options after initial failure of the road test:

1. College Retest Option
   • Complete four (4) hours of additional training and road skills test
   • Cost: $850 (including retraining and retest) 
2. Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) Retest Option
   • Schedule a retest with Minnesota DVS
   • Optional: Use the College’s truck for a 3-hour session
   • Cost: $650 

A student who fails two road tests administered by the College may only take subsequent tests administered by DVS state examiners.

Drug Testing

Students must pass a pre-employment drug screen at least two (2) weeks prior to the start of behind-the-wheel training.

Failure to pass the drug screen will result in termination from the CDL training program. Students who fail to pass the drug screen are not eligible for CDL training refunds.

Students flagged with an asterisk (*) after their drug test are required to complete an additional drug test.

Failed Drug Test

Students who fail a drug test must complete the Return-to-Duty Process as outlined in the code of federal regulations 49 CFR Part 40, Subpart O in order to continue in the College’s CDL training program.

Federal Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Students must provide consent for a query in the Federal Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse prior to beginning behind-the-wheel training.

A prohibited result or failure to consent will result in termination from the CDL training program.

Refunds

See the Workforce Development Solutions Refund Policy for details regarding refunds related to CDL training programs.

Responsibilities

Students

• Submitting all required documentation
• Completing training within designated timeframes
• Complying with drug testing and clearinghouse requirements

Workforce Development Solutions Staff

• Managing registration, invoicing and training schedules
• Ensuring compliance with federal and institutional policies 

CDL Instructors

• Delivering training content
• Monitoring student progress
• Reporting any issues related to student performance or compliance

College Administration

• Maintaining and updating the policy
• Ensuring alignment with Minnesota State system regulations
• Overseeing program integrity

Associated Policies and Procedures

Minnesota State Community and Technical College Workforce Development Solutions Refund Policy