How Can I Get My CDL in Missouri? - MTI Truck Driving School

To operate vehicles like semi-trailers, tankers, or passenger buses, you must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). These larger vehicles demand a different level of skill, experience and knowledge than a car or pickup truck.

As of early 2022, all aspiring CDL drivers are now required to complete a training program from a registered provider before they take the skills test. MTI is an approved ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) provider by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Navigating the process for obtaining your CDL might seem complex, but we are here to help you navigate the latest CDL laws and prepare you for a new career in Missouri. This guide outlines the requirements and answers most common questions about how to get your CDL in Missouri.

CDL License Missouri: What You Should Know

The transportation sector remains vital to the nation’s economy, and the need for skilled CDL drivers is consistently strong. Careers in the trucking industry offer various jobs including interstate travel all the way down to local delivery routes. If you are considering a career in trucking, it’s important to know the demand for CDL drives both nationally and locally.

Nationally, the BLS anticipates an average of 240,300 job openings for truck drivers every year between 2023-2033. In the state of Missouri, the MERIC (Missouri Economic Research and Information Center) anticipates approximately 5,671 job openings for truckers every year from 2022-2032.

This demand has also led to a driver shortage across the nation which is negatively impacting the economy. According to a recent report, the US is facing a shortage of approximately 24,000 drivers.

This strong and ongoing demand for professional truck drivers is also contributing to a significant shift within the industry. With attractive career prospects, more diverse talent is now entering the field, including a growing trend of women pursuing a CDL license. This is challenging the perception of trucking as a male-dominated profession.

The median annual salary for truck drivers in Missouri is $50,540. Top CDL drivers in Missouri can expect a median salary of $77,080.

This means that with a CDL, you’ll be entering a field with excellent opportunity for employment and long-term career stability.

Eligibility Requirements for a Missouri CDL

CDL operators must be at least 18 years old to drive in Missouri, and 21 years of age to drive across state lines.
Provide legal proof of residency within the United States
A valid, non-CDL license is required prior to obtaining your CDL in Missouri
In accordance with federal laws, you must self-certify that you are physically capable of operating a commercial vehicle prior to licensure. You must also hold a Medical Examiner Certificate (DOT Card) to obtain a CDL in Missouri and meet Missouri minimum vision standards.

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Steps to Apply for a Missouri CDL Permit and License

Here are the steps you will need to take to apply for a CDL permit and CDL license in Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Revenue and the Missouri Commercial Driver License Manual:

1. Meet the Missouri CDL requirements as set by the Missouri Department of Revenue.

The Missouri Commercial Driver License Manual provides specific guidelines to individuals who are (a) first time commercial driver license applicants, (b) first time hazardous materials, passenger or school bus endorsement applicants, and (c) individuals seeking to upgrade the classification of an existing CDL.

2. Obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

Getting your CLP is a prerequisite to qualifying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Missouri. To earn your CLP, you must pass the state’s written, road sign, and vision tests. Applicants for a CDL are required to hold a CLP for a minimum of 14 days prior to completing skills testing for a full CDL.

At MTI, CDL Training Course students will be prepared to take the CDL permit exam the first week of class. This allows the student to drive while accompanied by a CDL driver (with the exception of double/triple trailer or hazardous materials endorsements).

3. Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) from a FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) approved trucking school.

MTI’s truck driving school in Missouri is recognized by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) as an approved ELDT (Entry Level Driver Training) provider and prepares students to pass the licensing exam and obtain a Class A CDL license in Missouri. MTI offers a 16-day CDL Training Course at our Springfield, MO campus.

4. Pass required knowledge and skills tests.

There are three different classifications of CDL in Missouri – Class A, B, or C. Each classification is determined by the weight rating of the vehicle being driven and pulled.

To learn more, check out: What is the main difference between CDL-A and B?

CDL Test Missouri: What You Need to Know

Depending on the class of CDL and endorsements, you will be required to take one or more written knowledge tests, such as passenger transport, air brakes, hazardous materials and more.

You will be required to pass a road test in a variety of skills, including vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control and on-road driving.

Additional endorsements are required to drive a school bus, passenger vehicle, tank vehicles, double or triple trailers and hazardous materials. These endorsements require additional testing. You will complete these tests at the same time as you complete your CDL testing. Driver testing is administered by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

How Much Do CDL Tests in Missouri Cost?

You’ll also be required to pay the associated CDL testing and license fees. According to Section 14 of the Missouri Commercial Driver License Manual, the following fees will be assessed for CDL testing, permit and license fees, and other services:

Document Type: CDL

Term: 3 years or less
Fee: $20

Document Type: CDL

Term: 3 years and 1 day up to 6 years
Fee: $40

Document Type: Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Term: 1 year (360 days) or less
Fee: $10

Document Type: CDL with School Bus Endorsement Age over 70

Term: 1 year
Fee: $7.50

CDL License in Missouri – Additional Fees

CDL Written Test Fee: $25
CDL Skills Test Fee: $25
Office Processing Fee: $6 (Document issued for 3 years or less)
Office Processing Fee: $12 (Document issued for 3 years and 1 day up to 6 years)

Enroll Now: Get Your Missouri CDL at MTI

Get on the road to a new career in less than 30 days with CDL Training at MTI!

The accelerated 16-day CDL Training Course will teach you the skills and knowledge you need to get behind-the-wheel and start your new career as a truck driver. At MTI, you’ll be prepared to pass the Missouri CDL driving test.

Take the next step and contact MTI today for more information.

CDL Training at Springfield, MO

3600 S. Glenstone Outer Road

Springfield, MO 65804

(417) 884-1562