If you are reading this, you are likely researching how to obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the State of Kansas. To help you navigate the process, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions from drivers preparing to meet Kansas CDL requirements.

Obtaining a Kansas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) / Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) in the State of Kansas (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How Old Must I Be to Obtain a CDL or CLP in the State of Kansas?
   • You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial motor vehicle within Kansas (intrastate). Drivers who intend to operate commercial vehicles across state lines (interstate) must be at least 21 years of age.
2. Do I Need to Hold a Valid Passenger Driver’s License?
   • You must hold a valid Kansas non-commercial driver’s license before applying for a CLP or CDL.
     • Your license must be valid and in good standing and cannot be suspended, revoked, or canceled while holding a commercial permit.
3. What Should I Study in Order to Obtain a Kansas Commercial Learner’s Permit?
   • Applicants should study the official Commercial Driver’s License Manual published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
     • The manual can be found here: CDL Manual – Use for CLP Studying
4. What Sections Are Important to Pay Attention to When Studying for a KS CLP or CDL?
   • When preparing for Kansas CDL knowledge exams, focus on the following sections:
     • Introduction
     • Driving Safely
     • Transporting Cargo Safely
     • Air Brakes
     • Combination Vehicles
5. Are Practice Tests Available?
   • Yes. CDL practice tests are a helpful way to prepare for Kansas written exams:
     • KS CDL Practice Test – General Knowledge
     • KS CDL Practice Test – Combination Vehicle
     • KS CDL Practice Test – Air Brakes
6. Is There an Application I Need to Complete?
   • Yes. You must complete Kansas’s Commercial Learner’s Permit application through the Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles.
     • You will be required to verify your identity
     • Provide proof of lawful presence, Kansas residency, and your Social Security number
7. Does Kansas Have Medical Standards for CDL Drivers?
   • Yes. All CDL applicants in Kansas must meet federal medical certification requirements.
     • Medical standards are governed by the FMCSA and enforced by the Kansas Department of Revenue

If you need assistance while researching your CDL options, you can call our Get Your CDL teammates at 715-591-7050 extension 8, then option 2 or get started today.

Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles

Are you considering a career change? Looking for a job that offers stability, strong earning potential, and long-term opportunity? Many people in Kansas think about truck driving but hesitate because of the cost of CDL school. That concern is common—but it doesn’t have to hold you back. With a nationwide driver shortage continuing to grow, earning your Commercial Driver’s License can be a smart and timely career move.

That’s where :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} stands out. Instead of paying tuition to attend a CDL school, Roehl pays you while you train. Their paid CDL program allows you to earn income as you work toward your license—without the burden of upfront schooling costs.

Why Truck Driving Is a Smart Career Choice

One of the biggest advantages of becoming a truck driver is earning potential. Roehl drivers are on track to earn $70,000 or more. Compared to many careers that require years of education and student debt, trucking offers a faster, more direct path to solid income. Additional benefits of Roehl’s paid training model include:

• Your CDL training is part of your employment.
• You’re hired as a Roehl employee from day one.
• You earn pay while learning to drive.
• The paid CDL training program lasts approximately three weeks.
• Lodging and most meals are provided during training.
• After licensing, you continue gaining experience through paid over-the-road driving.
• You avoid the cost and lost wages associated with traditional CDL schools.
• Roehl offers long-term stability, benefits, and career growth.

This is an ideal time to move away from the traditional CDL school model and into hands-on, real-world training. As more experienced drivers retire, the demand for new drivers continues to increase. Starting now allows you to earn income immediately while building skills that can support you for years to come.

Roehl’s commitment continues after training is complete. Once you earn your CDL, you transition directly into full-time employment with benefits. There’s no need to search for a job—you’re already working and gaining experience as a professional driver.

What Roehl Expects in Return

Because Roehl invests in your training, drivers are expected to complete a minimum of 120,000 solo paid miles, which generally takes about 15 months as a long-haul driver.

If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, take the next step and begin earning while learning with Roehl. This program offers more than CDL training—it’s a pathway to a stable career and a better future.

Apply Now