CDL Truck Driver in Missouri
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MO. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Missouri.
Jobs (MO)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cdl truck driver in Missouri
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Missouri, you must obtain your license through the Missouri Department of Revenue. Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing a general knowledge and skills test, and submitting an application with a valid DOT medical certificate. Applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce or specific endorsements. Missouri has reciprocity agreements with Kansas and Nebraska for farm use CDL exemptions.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Missouri. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Missouri requirements
| Licensing body | Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($25) |
| Application fee | $83 |
| Renewal | Every 5.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce, or to obtain a Hazardous Materials or School Bus endorsement. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. The application fee of approximately $83 includes a $25 skills test fee, a $40 3-6 year term license transaction fee, and an $18 office processing fee. Fees may differ based on the term of issuance and if additional knowledge testing is completed or credited fees are applied. Federal ELDT is required for new applicants. A Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) must be held for a minimum of 14 days before taking the skills test. The CLP is valid for 360 days and is non-renewable. Upon expiration, all required knowledge testing must be completed to obtain a new CLP. Missouri has reciprocity agreements with Kansas and Nebraska for farm use CDL exemptions. |
workspace_premium Missouri license tiers
Missouri offers multiple tiers of cdl truck driver licensing:
| Tier | Hours required |
|---|---|
| Class A | N/A |
| Class B | N/A |
| Class C | N/A |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleMissouri license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk