CDL Licensing

How to Obtain a CDL in Kansas

4 min read

If you're aiming to operate commercial vehicles in Kansas, securing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is essential. This guide outlines the steps, requirements, and resources to help you navigate the process efficiently.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a CDL in Kansas, you must:

Age: Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 for interstate driving or transporting hazardous materials.
License: Hold a valid Kansas non-commercial driver’s license.
Residency: Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
Medical Certification: Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner and submit the Medical Examiner’s Certificate electronically via the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Before acquiring a CDL, you must first secure a CLP:

Knowledge Tests: Pass the general knowledge exam and any additional tests for desired endorsements.
Vision Test: Successfully complete a vision screening.
Fees: Pay the required fees, which include:
- CLP: $13 (comprising a $5 permit fee and an $8 photo fee).
- Written Exam: $15.
- Endorsements: $10 each.

Note: You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.

2. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

As of February 7, 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete ELDT from an FMCSA-approved provider. This training includes:

Theory Instruction: Classroom or online learning covering safety, vehicle operation, and regulations.
Behind-the-Wheel Training: Practical driving experience on a range and public roads.

Training programs typically last about 3-4 weeks for full-time students.

3. Pass the CDL Skills Test

After completing ELDT and holding your CLP for the required period, schedule and pass the CDL skills test, which comprises:

Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: Demonstrate knowledge of vehicle safety checks.
Basic Vehicle Control: Maneuver the vehicle through various exercises.
On-Road Driving Test: Operate the vehicle in real traffic conditions.

You must provide a vehicle that matches the class of CDL you're testing for.

4. Obtain Your CDL

Upon passing the skills test:

Submit Documentation: Provide all necessary documents, including proof of identity, residency, and medical certification.
Pay Fees: The CDL issuance fee is $41, which includes:
- License Fee: $18.
- Photo Fee: $8.
- Skills Test Fee: $15.

Endorsements and retests may incur additional fees.

CDL Classes and Endorsements

Kansas offers three classes of CDL:

Class A: For operating combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle is over 10,000 pounds.
Class B: For single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or towing a vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds.
Class C: For vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials requiring placards.

Endorsements allow you to operate specialized vehicles or transport certain types of cargo. Common endorsements include:

P: Passenger Transport.
S: School Bus.
N: Tank Vehicles.
H: Hazardous Materials.
X: Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials.
T: Double/Triple Trailers.

Each endorsement requires passing a specific knowledge test.

Additional Considerations

Medical Certification Updates: Effective June 2, 2025, Kansas will only accept electronic submissions of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate via the National Registry. Manual submissions are no longer accepted.
Military Waivers: Veterans with relevant experience may qualify for a skills test waiver under the Military Even Exchange program.
Seasonal Permits: Kansas offers 180-day seasonal permits for farm-related commercial driving within 150 miles of the farm, exempting certain testing requirements.

For more information and resources, consider exploring: