Kansas Commercial Driver’s License Requirements
According to Kansas CDL requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license. The USDOT also regulates the movement of cargo across state lines, so you must be at least 21 years old. All CDL applicants also need to pass a general knowledge exam and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic vehicle knowledge test, and a hands-on test in which you’ll drive on the road. The driving test also must be taken in a vehicle that matches the class of CDL license you are trying to obtain. Other endorsements that you may be tested for are air brakes, school buses, and vehicles that carry hazardous material. Depending on your test results you also may have restrictions on what kind and where you can transport cargo.
Find CDL Schools in Kansas
There are a variety of Kansas CDL schools that offer training to get your license. Luckily, our site provides great resources that will help you find the perfect school to advance your future trucking career. These schools will show you the ropes through both in-class and outside the classroom training. You’ll gain experience behind the wheel in a controlled setting as well as learn how to properly inspect your vehicle before during and after you hit the road. If you’re looking for an adventurous career, check out these top Kansas training schools to ensure that you’re getting the best education available. The application process is simple and easy so don’t delay!
CDL Training Costs in Kansas
Currently, the average tuition cost of a CDL training school in Kansas is around $2,800. This includes the classroom and behind-the-wheel portions of training. Although this might seem expensive, there are a variety of ways you can take advantage of financial aid. If you don’t have the money up front to pay, financial aid is a great way to ensure that your CDL education is financially feasible. Applying for financial aid through FAFSA is a great way to get the financial aid you need to continue your trucking journey. If you qualify through FAFSA, a federal Pell Grant awarded through participating institutions is money that can be used for school. Plus, you don’t need to pay grants back. In some cases, trucking companies will also pay for schooling as long as you pass and agree to work for that company. Don’t let finances keep you from pursuing a rewarding career.
CDL Prep in Kansas
After you complete your Kansas CDL requirement training, there are still a few more things you can do to ensure that you nail all portions of your exam. If you want to get a feel of what the test will be like, feel free to take our practice test as many times as you need to so you can see how prepared you are for the exam. You’ll also want to make sure that you practice driving in the same vehicle that you take the test in. You’ll want to drive something familiar so you feel as comfortable as possible when taking your test. When in doubt, make sure to crack open your books and have a study session. You can never study too much, so make sure you know your vehicle inside and out as well as how to drive it properly.
Kansas CDL Endorsement & Waivers
With a Kansas CDL, the individual or their employer might next require specialization to carry certain types of cargo - this is referred to as an endorsement and extra testing is required to ensure that the operator knows the additional responsibility of safe handling under the law. The following types of endorsements are common throughout Kansas and other states.
- School Bus
- Passenger
- Tank Vehicles
- Double/Triple
- Hazardous Materials
Waivers may also be prevalent in case a student did not pass a portion of the test or has a special circumstance. These will be marked with corresponding letters on the Commercial Driver’s License.
CDL Tests in Kansas
Below is just a preview of what you can expect when taking your Kansas CDL requirements. You must pass both a written test as well as an on-the-road test before you can become a licensed commercial driver in Kansas.
CDL Knowledge Tests in Kansas
The general knowledge portion of the exam is usually 50 questions and will cover a wide variety of information pertaining to trucking regulations, road safety, equipment, and other subjects. You will nee to get at least 80% on the Kansas CDL knowledge test to pass. Once completed, you will move onto the hands-on skills test.
CDL Skills Test in Kansas
The driving test consists of two parts that will test your knowledge of the CDL process. The pre-trip inspection tests your ability to determine that the vehicle is safe to drive. You have to explain to the examiner how you would examine the various parts of your vehicle. The purpose of the road test is to verify that you may safely operate your vehicle. Here you will be asked to turn, back up, change lanes, as well as identify different traffic signs, so make sure you’ve prepared accordingly.
Job Outlook in Kansas
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of truck driving jobs in the United States is expected to rise 5% by 2024. This is just below the average of 7% for all occupations, and it’s a great indication of an increase in the trucking industry. Those looking for a promising career are flocking towards the trucking industry.
Kansas Truck Driver Salary
The average annual salary for a trucker in Kansas is currently $43,110, which is lower than the US average of $43,590. This stellar wage is a great incentive to get your Kansas CDL as soon as possible!