Truck Driver Career Guide in Missouri
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Missouri.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Missouri
Missouri CDL programs provide classroom, range, and road instruction covering inspections, air brakes, combination vehicles, backing, shifting, defensive driving, and federal safety 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 Missouri
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Missouri 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 Missouri is approximately $2,890 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Missouri
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 Missouri
Missouri tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and federally compliant Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Missouri identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical requirements.
- Pass required written examinations and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete theory and behind-the-wheel ELDT through an FMCSA-listed provider.
- Pass the vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and road portions of the CDL skills test.
- Obtain required endorsements and complete carrier-specific safety and equipment training.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Missouri
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| State Technical College of Missouri | Linn | View Program |
| Crowder College | Neosho | View Program |
| Metropolitan Community College | Kansas City | View Program |
| Ozarks Technical Community College | Springfield | 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 Missouri
Missouri Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Missouri
Missouri heavy and tractor-trailer drivers must hold the appropriate CDL, generally Class A. First-time applicants must complete ELDT, obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, meet medical requirements, and pass state knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Missouri
Missouri projects employment to increase from approximately 51,370 drivers in 2022 to 53,730 in 2032, representing 5% growth and about 5,690 annual openings.
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 Missouri?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Missouri is approximately $54,550 per year, or $26.23 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Missouri require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Missouri 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 Missouri Department of Revenue — Driver License Bureau.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2022 to 2032, with about 5,690 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
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
- Missouri Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Missouri Truck Driver Wages
- Missouri Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Missouri Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Missouri Department of Revenue — Driver License Bureau — Licensing authority. Missouri Department of Revenue — Driver License Bureau