CDL Driver Pay · Kansas

CDL Truck Driver Salary in Kansas (2026)

Real pay by experience, top carriers, and CDL schools — researched and maintained by a working tradesman with a Class A CDL. Updated 2026.

Truck driving is one of the fastest trades to enter — you can go from zero to a paid Class A job in a couple of months, with no degree and often with the training paid for. Kansas drivers earn solid money that climbs with experience, and owner-operators who run their own truck sit at the top. Here's the real pay, the top employers, and how to get started in Kansas.

Kansas CDL Driver Pay Range

$46-86k

⏱ Wheat and livestock routes

Pay by Experience in Kansas

Here's how CDL pay progresses in Kansas — from your first year as a new driver to experienced company driver and owner-operator. Many carriers offer paid CDL training, so you can start earning while you learn.

New Driver$40k/yr

Experienced$58k/yr

Owner-Operator$82k+

Before You Decide

Is Truck Driving Worth It vs College?

See how a Kansas CDL career stacks up against a four-year degree — lifetime earnings, debt, and net worth, side by side.

Run the Wealth Calculator → See the pay map →

Top Trucking Employers in Kansas

These are carriers Kansas drivers rate, based on field reviews. Pay, home time, and route type vary a lot between companies — ask drivers who actually run for them before you sign.

Heartland Express KS★ 3.8 (14 reviews)

Prime Inc KS★ 3.9 (10 reviews)

CDL Schools & Training in Kansas

To drive Class A you'll need to complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider (the federal ELDT requirement). These are CDL training options that serve Kansas drivers — private schools, community colleges, and carrier-paid programs.

Wichita Technical InstituteCDL Program

Salina ATCCDL Training

How to Get Your CDL in Kansas

The path is quick compared to most trades: be at least 21 for interstate driving (18 for in-state in many cases), pass a DOT physical, get your commercial learner's permit, complete ELDT-registered training, then pass the CDL skills test. Many Kansas drivers go through a carrier's paid CDL program, which covers training cost in exchange for a work commitment — a way in with no upfront tuition.

For the full step-by-step — endorsements, what the lifestyle is really like, and how to pick a first carrier that won't burn you out — read our full guide to getting your CDL.

Free · No Cost · Your Next Step

Ready to Start CDL Driver in Kansas?

Tell us a bit about you and we'll connect you with real training programs and apprenticeships near you. Built by a working journeyman lineman — not a call center.

Yes — I'd like US Trade Route to share my name and contact info with relevant trade schools, training programs, and employers so they can reach out to me. I can opt out anytime.

We only share your info with the programs and employers you've checked the box to be connected with.

For Schools & Training Programs

Run a CDL program in Kansas? Get listed in front of the people reading this page — we build your profile for you.

Get Listed →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do CDL truck drivers make in Kansas?

In Kansas, CDL driver pay ranges roughly $46-86k depending on experience and route type. New drivers start at the lower end, experienced drivers earn the middle, and owner-operators or specialized haulers can earn the most. Wheat and livestock routes.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Kansas?

Most CDL programs in Kansas take about 3 to 8 weeks of full-time training. You'll get your commercial learner's permit (CLP) first, train behind the wheel, then pass the CDL skills test. Many carriers also run paid CDL training where they cover the cost in exchange for a work commitment.

Do you need school to get a CDL in Kansas?

As of the federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule, new Class A CDL drivers must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the skills test. That can be a private CDL school, a community college program, or a carrier's own paid training program in Kansas.

Which companies hire CDL drivers in Kansas?

National carriers, regional fleets, and local/dedicated routes all hire in Kansas. Drivers in the state rate employers like Heartland Express KS, Prime Inc KS among the options. Pay, home time, and route type vary a lot between companies, so compare before you sign on.