Truck Driving Schools in Kansas

Truck drivers are in high demand in several cities across the state of Kansas. Individuals in good physical shape who are willing to dedicate time to preparing for their commercial driver’s license are encouraged to pursue a career in this field.

Following the guide below will help them get started correctly. Here, we outline everything they need to consider, from preparing for the CDL exam to training institutions and career opportunities.

We also explore the profession’s future and the annual average salary figures to expect at various points in a professional truck driving career in Kansas.

How to Become a Truck Driver in Kansas

The following framework is the most popular approach for starting a truck driving career in Kansas.

Age Requirements

Kansas truck drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a Kansas state driver’s license. Those who wish to drive outside of Kansas must be at least 21 years old.

Applicants will also be expected to provide proof of US citizenship and lawful permanent residency.

Physical Requirements

Aspiring truck drivers in Kansas are also expected to meet a few physical fitness requirements. First, individuals must have perfect vision and undergo a physical examination administered by an approved examiner.

Getting a Commercial Learner’s Permit

Before they can receive a commercial driver’s license to become truck drivers, candidates in Kansas must first obtain a commercial learner’s permit. To obtain this permit, they must provide documents that prove their age, identity, and Social Security number.

They will also be expected to take a vision test and pass a written examination belonging to their desired CDL class.

Attending a Training Program

The CDL examination can be quite challenging, even for those with prior experience in truck driving. This is why both experienced and fresh candidates tend to spend some time in a training program preparing for their CDL examinations.

Below, we explore some of the best institutions for CDL exam preparation in the state of Kansas.

The CDL Examination

The CDL examination encompasses multiple aspects designed to assess candidates’ theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The knowledge test typically begins with a written exam, during which candidates are expected to achieve a score of at least 80%.

It is then followed by the skills test, during which candidates must demonstrate their pre-trip inspection skills, maneuvering skills, road skills, and other relevant skills.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a freight broker in Kansas

Licensure & Certification Requirements

A Class A license in Kansas is suitable for candidates who will be driving a combination of vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more, including towed vehicles that weigh 10,000 pounds or more.

A Class B license applies to professionals driving single vehicles that weigh at least 26,001 pounds and those with vehicles of 10,000 pounds or less in tow. Lastly, a Class C license is required for driving vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers or those designed for handling hazardous materials.

The fees to obtain a CDL in Kansas include $13 for the learner’s permit, $44 for the commercial driver’s license itself, $10 for endorsements, $1.5 to retake the written exam, and $10 to take the skills exam.

Top Truck Driver Schools in Kansas

All of the entries below are known for prominent training programs for prospective truck drivers in Kansas.

Explore truck driving schools in Kansas by city:

• Truck driving schools in Wichita

Salary & Career Outlook

A survey of truck drivers across Kansas by Indeed showed that the annual average salary for the median earners is $93,389. Candidates may begin their career in this category or start a little lower.

Those who begin in the bottom 10% still make an annual average salary of $47,972. However, professionals can increase their earnings to a figure of around $181,805 or more, placing them among the top 10%.

Experience, location, company of employment, and professional credentials are the factors that can help truck drivers improve their yearly earnings in Kansas. Concerning location, the following cities have the best figures for professionals in the state:

• Wichita, with an annual average salary of $105,180, and
• Overland Park, with an annual average salary of $99,511.