Truck Driver Career Guide in Kansas
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Kansas.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Kansas
Kansas CDL programs provide instruction in vehicle inspection, air brakes, backing, coupling, shifting, road operation, cargo securement, defensive driving, and federal motor-carrier regulations.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Truck Driver Salary in Kansas
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Kansas median wage for truck driver workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $57,440, the median wage in Kansas is approximately $1,480 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Kansas
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONTruck Driver Training Requirements in Kansas
Kansas tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and federally compliant Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Kansas identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical requirements.
- Pass the applicable knowledge examinations and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel training with a registered provider.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and on-road CDL skills tests.
- Obtain required endorsements and complete employer-specific cargo and equipment training.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Kansas
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Johnson County Community College | Overland Park | View Program |
| Fort Scott Community College | Fort Scott | View Program |
| Seward County Community College | Liberal | View Program |
| Hutchinson Community College | Hutchinson | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESTruck Driver Apprenticeship Programs in Kansas
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Kansas
Kansas heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers generally require a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete ELDT, meet medical-certification requirements, and pass applicable knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Kansas
The currently accessible O*NET Kansas page does not return a reportable state projection for SOC 53-3032.00. The national 2024–2034 benchmark is 4% growth with approximately 237,600 annual openings and should not be entered as a Kansas-specific figure.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the truck driver salary in Kansas?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Kansas is approximately $58,920 per year, or $28.33 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Kansas require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Kansas requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt truck driver work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Kansas Department of Revenue — Division of Vehicles.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Kansas?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 3–6 Months + OJT, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are truck drivers in demand in Kansas?
Demand for truck driver workers in Kansas varies by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment. State employment projections are estimates rather than guarantees of employment.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Kansas Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Kansas Truck Driver Wages
- Kansas Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Kansas Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Kansas Department of Revenue — Division of Vehicles — Licensing authority. Kansas Department of Revenue — Division of Vehicles