CDL Career Pathway

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The Drive for Five Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program is provided in partnership with Dakota County Technical College (DCTC), Roseville Adult Learning Center, and employer partners. Join an industry that is continuously seeking dedicated, professional, and reliable drivers. 

What to Expect 

The first group of training participants will begin in January 2025.

Before beginning training, you will complete an interview with KOM staff to review your driving record and career interests. We’ll contact you to set up a time for an interview. Fill out our sign up form here. 

The training consists of three parts: 

Classroom Training: Begin by studying for your permit tests and completing Entry Level Driver Training. 

Paid Work Experience and Career Exploration: Learn about different CDL career options through work experience with local employers. 

Class A License: After passing your permit, you will complete behind-the-wheel training at DCTC to earn your Class A CDL license. 

Completing all components of the program will take at least 20 weeks, or approximately 4.5 months. 

After training is completed, KOM staff will continue to work with you as you apply for and start a CDL job. 

Eligibility 

One of the following: 

• Immigrant/Refugee  

• English Language Learner  

AND ALL of the following: 

• At least 18 years old and not in high school. (Some jobs require employees to be older than 21.)  

• Authorized to work in the U.S. 

• Have held a Driver’s License in the U.S. for at least 2 years. (A license issued by the state of Minnesota is required before you join this class. ) 

• Clean driving record 

• Pass a DOT physical exam and drug test (coordinated and paid for by the program. Note: drug test will screen for THC and though use is legal in MN, use is prohibited for CDL drivers or federally) 

• Actively seeking employment as a CDL driver 

• Commitment to showing up to class everyday 

• Priority given to low-income individuals or those facing employment barriers 

When and Where 

• Classroom training will be held in-person in the morning, four days a week in Roseville.
• Behind-the-Wheel Training takes place in Rosemount, MN. (Exact locations are sent upon registration)

Training will be held over full weekdays for 3-4 consecutive weeks. 

• Work Experience will be completed with employers in St. Paul. 

Program Highlights 

• Classroom training to prepare for CDL permit tests 

• Financial coaching and education designed to support your CDL career goals 

• Paid work experience and career exploration 

• Support with job search and applications 

• Earn money when you reach employment milestones 

• Costs for Behind the Wheel training at DCTC covered by KOM! ($6,000 value) 

The State of Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) funded (or funded in part) this training through a grant. The grant recipient created this training. DEED does not endorse this publicity or training or make guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability or ownership of the information herein or elsewhere.  

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Khang | Phone: 651-253-3894  | Email: lkhang@mnkaren.org