Kansas Driver’s License Classes (A Complete Guide)

What license class do you need?

Do you need a Class A or a Class A CDL?

How about a Class B or a Class B CDL?

In Kansas, the driver’s license classes can get a bit confusing — probably because the names are very similar.  

Well, we’re here to set the record straight. 

Today, we’re going to explain the Kansas driver’s license classes to you. This way, you’ll know exactly which class you need. 

Plus, we’ll also give you the steps on how to get each one. 

So without further ado, let’s begin!

What are the Driver’s License Classes in Kansas?

Although there are seven types of driver’s licenses in Kansas, you can bucket these into two groups: commercial and non-commercial.

Let’s see which falls under what category.

Commercial Driver’s Licenses

There are 3 types of CDLs in Kansas. These are:

• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• Class C CDL

Let’s see what commercial motor vehicle (CMV) each CDL class can operate. 

Class A CDL

A Class A CDL can operate combination CMVs with a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,001 pounds. The towed unit’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) should weigh more than 10,000 pounds.

Class B CDL

A Class B CDL can operate single CMVs that weigh more than 26,000 pounds. If towing, the unit should weigh less than 10,000 pounds. 

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL can operate single CMVs that weigh less than 26,001 pounds and tow less than 10,000 pounds. This CDL class can also operate vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers and vehicles that transport hazardous materials. 

Non-Commercial Driver’s Licenses

If CDLs are used for commercial purposes, non-commercial licenses are for private use only — your car is an excellent example. 

However, some larger vehicles like farm equipment or RVs also fall within the non-commercial category.

Now, there are 4 non-commercial driver’s licenses in Kansas. These are:

• Class A
• Class B
• Class C
• Class M

As you can see, these are almost the same as commercial licenses, except it does not have CDL at the end. 

Let’s break these classes into detail. 

Class C

Let’s start with the most popular one — a non-commercial Class C license. 

This allows you to drive most passenger vehicles, like sedans and SUVs, that weigh less than 26,001 pounds. 

Not only that, but this class can also operate a volunteer fire truck.

What’s more, you can drive a vehicle registered as a farm truck with this license, even if it weighs more than 26,001 pounds.

Class A

You need a Class A license if you want to drive a combination vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 or more and tows a unit weighing at least 10,000 pounds. 

Now here’s the difference – it should not be used for commercial purposes. 

However, if your combination vehicle includes a truck registered as a farm vehicle, it will not fall under this category. A non-commercial Class C license will suffice.

Class B

Like a Class B CDL, a Class B license operates a single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,001 pounds. And, as you already know, if towing a unit, it should weigh less than 10,000 pounds. 

Again, the difference is that Class B should NOT be used for commercial purposes, only private. 

Class M

The last non-commercial license on our list is Class M. This license operates motorcycles. 

You can get it as a solo license — if you only drive a motorcycle — or you can add it as an endorsement to your Class C license — if you drive both a vehicle and motorcycle. 

How to Get A Class C License in Kansas

For anyone between 14 to 16 years old, you must first get a learner’s permit.

Here are the steps to get a learner’s permit in Kansas: 

1. Gather the required documents. These include the following:
   • One proof of identity
   • Two proofs of residency in Kansas
   • One proof of Social Security Number (unless you are a non-citizen on a non-work status)

Click here for a list of documents you can use.

2. Take the written test online at KnowTo Drive Online Testing. You can also schedule an appointment to take the test at a driver’s license office.

NOTE: you can waive your written test if you complete an approved driver’s education course. Just make sure to present your driver’s ed certificate slip. 

3. Go to the driver’s license office and bring a parent or legal guardian (if you’re under 16) so they can give consent. If not, the office won’t issue you a permit.

4. Submit a filled-out application form and all supporting documents.

5. Pass a vision test.

6. Pass the written exam (if you didn’t already take it online or waive it).

7. Pay the fees:
   • Learner’s permit: $2.00
   • Photo fee: $8.00
   • Written exam fee if taken online: $11.50

8. Have your photo taken.

9. Get your learner’s permit. 

And just like that, you have your learner’s permit! 

The next step is to get a restricted license. Here’s how to do that: 

1. Hold your learner’s permit for 1 year or until you reach 16 years old.

NOTE: if you wait until you’re 16 years old, you can get a less restricted license. 

2. Complete an approved driver’s education program (required for 15-year-olds only).

NOTE: if you already completed a driver’s ed before you got a learner’s permit, you no longer need to do this step. Just make sure you present your driver’s ed certificate slip. 

3. Complete 25 hours of driving. 

NOTE: If you wait until you’re 16 years old, you must complete 50 hours of driving, with 10 hours done at night. 

4. Schedule a driving test. 

NOTE: an approved driver’s ed program can waive this step, too. 

5. At the office, submit these documents: 
   • Proof of identity, residency, and Social Security Number. Click here for acceptable IDs.
   • A completed Teen Driving Affidavit Log confirming your driving hours (regardless of whether you completed 25 or 50 hours)
   • Certificate slip of a driver’s education (if applicable) 

6. If you are 15 years old, your parent or legal guardian must give written consent for you to receive a license.

7. Pass a vision test. 

8. Pass the driving test. 

9. Pay the fees:
   • License fee: $20.00
   • Drive test fee: $3.00
   • Photo fee: $8.00

10. Have your photo taken.

11. Surrender your learner’s permit.

12. Get your restricted or less restricted license. 

Once you turn 17 years old, the restrictions on your license will be lifted and it will become a Class C license. 

Now, the process changes if you’re applying for a Class C license for the first time and you’re already older than 17. 

If so, here are the steps:

1. Take your written exam online and schedule a driving test. 

NOTE: you can complete an approved driver’s ed program to waive both tests. 

2. Visit a driver’s license office and bring the necessary documents:
   • Proof of your identity
   • Proof of your Social Security Number
   • Proofs of Kansas residency

3. Submit an affidavit signed by your parent or guardian showing you’ve completed the required 50 driving hours (not required if you’re 18 or older)

4. Pass a vision test. 

5. Pass the written test (if not taken online) and the driving test. 

6. Pay the fees:
   • License fee: $20 (if below 21 years old), $18 (if 21 and older), and $12 (if 64 and above)
   • Test fee: $3
   • Photo fee: $8

7. Have your photo taken.

8. Get your Class C license. 

And voila! You are now a licensed driver in Kansas. 

Read More About How to Get A Driver’s License in Kansas Here

How to Get A Class A and B License in Kansas

You can apply for a Class A or Class B license when you turn 18 years old. Although a permit is no longer required, you can choose to get one if you want to experience supervised driving.

If not, then here are the steps: 

1. Gather the following documents in preparation for your application:
   • One document to prove your identity
   • Two documents to prove you live in Kansas
   • One document showing your Social Security Number 

You can find a complete list of approved documents here.

2. Fill out an application form at a driver’s license office and submit the documents.

NOTE: Offices will entertain walk-ins but making an online appointment is better because it gives you priority. 

3. Pass the vision, written, and driving tests.

4. Pay the fees:
   • Class A or B license: $24 (if you are at least 64 years old, the fee goes down to $16).
   • Testing: $3
   • Photo: $8

5. Have your photo taken.

6. Get your Class A or Class B license. 

How to Get Class A, B, and C Commercial Licenses in Kansas

The great thing about getting a commercial license in Kansas is that you only need to follow a single set of steps regardless of which class you’re getting.

However, before getting a CDL, you must first earn your commercial learner’s permit (CLP).

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Ensure you meet the requirements for CDL applicants.

2. Determine which CDL class you need, as well as the necessary endorsements.

3. Make an appointment for your CDL knowledge exam.

4. Gather the following documents and submit them on your visit:
   • Your Class C non-commercial license
   • A document proving your identity
   • A document showing your Social Security Number
   • Two documents proving you live in Kansas
   • A medical self-certification form. You can also submit this form online. 
   • A certificate that shows you meet the FMCSA’s medical requirements (if required)

5. Pass a vision test.

6. Pass the knowledge exam (you will need an additional test for each endorsement you get).

7. Comply with a driving record check.

8. Pay the fees:
   • CLP fee: $5
   • Photo fee: $8
   • Endorsement fee: $10 

9. Get your CLP. 

Now, let’s go to the steps on how to get your commercial driver’s license (CDL). 

1. Hold your CLP for at least 14 days. 

2. Complete the Entry-Level Driver Training from an approved provider.

3. Complete the required Truckers Against Trafficking course.

4. Make an appointment for your CDL skills exam. 

5. Pass all three parts of the skills exam.

6. Pay the fees:
   • CDL fee: $18
   • Testing fee: $15
   • Photo fee: $8
   • Endorsement fee: $10

7. Get your CDL. 

Congratulations! You can now operate a commercial motor vehicle under your class. 

Read More About the Kansas CDL Requirements Here

How to Get A Class M License in Kansas

When you turn 16 years old, you can immediately apply for a Class M license. However, if you want to start at 14 years old, you first need a motorcycle permit. 

Sure, it might take more work, but it’ll help you gain confidence in your driving skills.

And if so, here is how to get your motorcycle permit in Kansas:

1. Visit a Department of Revenue driver’s license office and bring the following documents:
   • Proof of identity (1)
   • Proof of Kansas residency (2)
   • Proof of Social Security Number (1)

2. Have your parent or legal guardian give written consent that you can receive a motorcycle permit.

3. Take a vision test.

4. Take the written test.

5. Pay the fees:
   • Testing fee: $3
   • Photo fee: $8

6. Have your photo taken.

7. Get your motorcycle permit. 

Here are the steps to getting your Class M license in Kansas: 

1. Complete a motorcycle safety course from the Department of Education.

2. Complete the required 50 driving hours. Remember that 10 hours must be done at night. 

3. Visit a driver’s license office and bring the following:
   • Your affidavit confirming you completed the driving hours, signed by your parent or guardian.
   • Your completion slip from the motorcycle safety course

4. Pass the necessary tests:
   • Vision test
   • Driving test (if applicable)

5. Pay the fees:
   • Class M license: $20
   • Testing fee: $3
   • Photo fee: $8

6. Have your picture taken.

7. Get your Class M license. 

Remember that there’s an alternative to this. If you already have a Class C license, you can add an M endorsement to it — this will allow you to drive a motorcycle in Kansas.

The Wrap Up

That concludes your complete guide to the Kansas driver’s license classes. 

Whew! That was a lot!

But at least now you won’t confuse the different classes in the state. 

Just remember, it begins by identifying whether you need a commercial or non-commercial license. Then, determine which class your vehicle requires.

After that, it’s a matter of following the steps to the license you need.

Good luck!