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.
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.
Kansas Truck Driving School
Wichita, KS Campus Only
Kansas Truck Driving School provides a focused four-week program that prepares students for the CDL exam while also laying the groundwork for a durable career in trucking.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(316) 218-1700
wichitacdltraining@beatrucker.com
Kansas City Swift Academy
Edwardsville, KS Campus Only
Kansas City Swift Academy offers CDL training through Swift Transportation, one of the largest trucking companies in the U.S.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(888) 903-9757
Apex Technical Institute
Kansas City, KS Campus Only
Apex Technical Institute runs a CDL training program in Kansas City that supports career entry in just four weeks. Students train on modern equipment under the guidance of seasoned professionals in state-of-the-art facilities.
Tuition
$3,000 - $6,000 per ProgramContact
(913) 794-3554
jsteinberg@apexcdl.com
Explore truck driving schools in Kansas by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
A survey of truck drivers across Kansas 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.