Kentucky Commercial Driver’s License Requirements
Getting your CDL license in Kentucky can be a big decision, so you need to know what you’re getting yourself into before you get started. Luckily, that’s where All Truck Jobs comes in. According to Kentucky CDL requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates interstate transportation of cargo, so you must be over 21 if you want to transport cargo across state lines. All CDL applicants then 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 vehicle that you take the test in must also fall under the correct CDL license class. You can also take an exam for additional endorsements that will cover other regulations. Below we’ve listed just a few more things to be aware of before taking your Kentucky CDL exam.
Find CDL Training Schools in Kentucky
A Kentucky CDL training school is the best way to get your commercial driver’s license in Kentucky. Luckily, our site provides great resources that will help you find the perfect school to advance your future trucking career. You’ll gain a stellar education by training inside and outside of the classroom. You’ll gain experience behind the wheel in a controlled setting as well as learn the best way to inspect your vehicle prior to hitting the road. It’s time to embark on a new career – but first, make sure you’re getting a proper education. Let us help you get started!
CDL Training Costs in Kentucky
Currently, the average tuition cost of a Kentucky CDL training school is around $4,700. Luckily, there are a variety of ways to pay for Kentucky CDL training. 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 option for those who cannot pay the full amount up front. If you qualify through FAFSA, a federal Pell Grant awarded through participating institutions is a monetary aid that does not need to be paid back. It’s also a good idea to look at employers that will provide financial aid for training so you can join their team as soon as you complete your Kentucky CDL requirements.
CDL Prep in Kentucky
Now that you’ve made your way through schooling, it’s time to focus on passing your Kentucky CDL exam. If you want to get a feel for 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 you stack up. You’ll also want to make sure that you practice 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. Our site offers a variety of resources that will ensure that you are as prepared as you can be for your upcoming test.
Kentucky CDL Endorsement & Waivers
With a Kentucky 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 of the vehicle knows the additional responsibility of safe handling under the law. The following types of endorsements are common throughout Kentucky 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 Kentucky
It’s time to finally take your CDL test in Kentucky. One little test and you’ll be heading down the open road towards a new and exciting career. All the hard work that you’ve put in during your time in a Kentucky CDL school comes down to this. Below we’ve given you a preview of what you can expect during your Kentucky Commercial Driver’s License test. Both the knowledge portion and the skills tests are described in detail. Make sure to also look into our practice test if you need additional help.
CDL Knowledge Tests in Kentucky
The knowledge portion of the Kentucky CDL test consists of 50 questions that cover subjects like safety, pre-trip inspection, driving techniques, and road signs. To pass this portion, you must get at least an 80% on the exam. If you want to get a feel for how the exam will be formatted and what kind of questions to expect, our test offers 50 questions that will help you prepare for your upcoming Kentucky CDL exam. Once you complete this portion of the exam, you’ll move onto the skills portion of the test.
CDL Skills Test in Kentucky
The skills portion of the Kentucky CDL test will allow you to showcase your knowledge in a hands-on way. There will be three different aspects that the test will cover. Initially, you will be asked to conduct an inspection of your rig so you can identify any issues that may arise before you hit the road. Next, you will hit the road with your vehicle to make sure that you can properly identify road signs and the parts on your interior. Finally, you will be asked to maneuver the vehicle by turning, merging, and backing up. Once you complete this test, you’re CDL is within reach.
Job Outlook in Kentucky
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of trucking jobs is expected to increase 5% by 2024. Just below the national average of 7% for all occupations, it’s yet another sign that points towards an industry that’s trending upward. It’s no secret that trucking jobs are here to stay, so it’s important that you take this opportunity as soon as you can.
Kentucky Truck Driver Salary
The average driver in Kentucky makes about $42,100 per year. This is just below the national average of $43,590. The investment you put into your CDL license education will surely be worth it when you land a trucking job that offers a stellar wage.