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Get your CDL in Kansas and start your truck driving career today. Find out the requirements and start your training.
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Introduction
In order to operate a commercial motor vehicle in the state of Kansas, you will need to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The process of obtaining a CDL in Kansas is similar to that of other states, but there are a few specific requirements that you will need to meet. In this article, we will outline the steps that you will need to take in order to obtain a CDL in Kansas.
What is a CDL?
A CDL is a Commercial Driver’s License. In order to obtain a CDL, you must first pass a written knowledge test and then a skills test. The skills test has two parts: the pre-trip inspection and the road test. The pre-trip inspection tests your knowledge of the vehicle and its controls, and the road test measures your ability to control the vehicle and safely operate it in traffic.
The Steps to Getting a CDL in Kansas
There are a few steps you need to take in order to get your CDL in Kansas. You’ll need to have a valid US driver’s license, pass a physical examination, pass a vision test, and pass a written knowledge test. You will also need to provide a current driver’s license, a social security card, and birth certificate. Once you have all of these things, you’ll be able to apply for your CDL.
Step One: Get a Kansas Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a CLP. You will need to provide the following:
-A completed CDL application (DL 44C)
-Current out-of-state license, if applicable
-Proof of identity
-Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence
-2 proofs of Kansas residency
-Pass the vision exam
-Pay the $50 application fee
You will also need to pass a DOT physical and pass a knowledge test specific to the type of CLP you’re applying for.
Step Two: Take the Kansas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Written Test
You will need to take the Kansas CDL written test if you are applying for a:
-Class A license
-Class B license
-Class C license
You will need to take the written test(s) that correspond to the class of vehicle you wish to operate. If you want a Class A, B, or C license, you must pass the General Knowledge test, as well as the Combination Vehicles test. If you want a Class A license, you must also pass the Air Brakes test. Lastly, if you want a Hazardous Materials, Tank Vehicles, School Bus, or Passenger endorsement on your license, you must pass the corresponding endorsement test(s).
The General Knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions and covers information that all commercial drivers should know. You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass. The Combination Vehicles test has 30 multiple-choice questions and covers information specific to operating combination vehicles. You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass. The Air Brakes test has 25 multiple-choice questions and covers air brake systems and their proper use. You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass.
The Hazardous Materials test has 30 multiple-choice questions and covers regulations pertaining to transportation of hazardous materials. You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass. The Tank Vehicles test has 20 multiple-choice questions and covers regulations pertaining to tank vehicles. You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass. The School Bus test has 30 multiple-choice questions and covers school bus safety procedures. You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass. Lastly, the Passenger endorsement test has 20 multiple-choice questions and covers information pertaining to transporting passengers safely. You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass.”
Step Three: Take the Kansas CDL Skills Test
The third and final step to getting your Kansas CDL is to take and pass the skills test. This is a practical test that will assess your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle. You will need to provide your own vehicle for the skills test, and it must be of the same class as the license you are applying for.
The skills test will be administered by a Kansas Department of Revenue examiner, and you will be required to perform various maneuvers with your vehicle. These may include:
-Backing up
-Parallel parking
-Turning around in a limited space
-Safely merging with traffic
-Changing lanes
-Responding to road signage
You must pass all aspects of the skills test in order to obtain your CDL. If you fail any part of the test, you will be required to wait 14 days before you can retake that particular portion. Once you have successfully completed the skills test, you will be issued your Kansas commercial driver’s license!
Step Four: Get Your Kansas CDL
Now that you have completed all of the above steps, you are ready to get your Kansas CDL! The process is fairly simple:
1. Schedule an appointment with your local DMV office.
2. Bring your required documents and fees with you to your appointment.
3. Complete the written exam and the skills test, if required.
4. Once you have passed all tests, you will be issued your Kansas CDL!
Conclusion
To get a CDL in Kansas, you must first pass a written exam and then a skills test. You will need to provide proof of residency, identity, and U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency. You will also need to have a clean driving record and be at least 18 years old.
