Thinking about attending truck driving school in Missouri? You’re in luck, as the state is home to one of the most active freight corridors in the U.S., according to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) as of 2025.1 Missouri’s central location places it within 500 miles of nearly half the U.S. population and major wholesale trade centers, bolstering a demand for new drivers across local, regional, and long-haul routes.1 If you’re considering a career in trucking, this combination of access and opportunity can put you in a great spot post-studies.
Whether you’re comparing program costs, figuring out licensing steps, or trying to understand which schools offer what you need to help you meet your career goals, this guide will walk you through the essentials. You’ll learn about various Missouri commercial driver’s license (CDL) programs, what to expect during training, and how to find a school that aligns with your financial status, schedule, and ambitions.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri’s location along major freight routes makes it a strong place to start a truck driving career with both local and long-haul options.
- CDL schools across the state vary in schedule, class size, equipment, and training format, so comparing programs helps you find the right fit.
- All CDL trainees must complete ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel requirements with an FMCSA-registered provider before taking Missouri’s skills test.
- Community colleges and workforce-funded programs often offer more affordable pathways than private training schools.
- Job placement support and employer partnerships can make it easier to transition into paid driving roles after graduation.
Criteria for Missouri CDL Schools
Missouri CDL schools in this guide have been evaluated on training quality, program structure, and compliance with licensing requirements to help students compare their options effectively. Some criteria considered are:
Approval and Accreditation: The programs on this list are registered and approved Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) providers.2 This ensures your training meets the requirements to test for a Missouri CDL.
Behind-the-Wheel Requirements: CDL programs on this list prioritize real, behind-the-wheel driving practice.
Program Length and Training Format: This list includes full-time and part-time/weekday/weekend program options.
Job Placement and Hiring Partnerships: Some of the following schools have hiring partners, and some even offer job placement guarantees.
Tuition and Financial Aid Options: Some of the following schools include inclusive payment options, including payment plans, eligibility for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) support, employer tuition assistance, and veteran education benefits.3
CDL Training Programs in Missouri
Note: all information below has been verified as of November 2025 and is subject to change.
MTC Truck Driver Training
This trucking school operates an FMCSA ELDT-compliant CDL training with both expert instruction and hands-on drive training to help you pass your CDL A test in four weeks.4 This program offers students the ability to use multiple school funding options to pay for tuition, including eligibility for veteran benefits, grants, and scholarships.
Tuition: Varies by location
Training Length: Four weeks full-time
Endorsements: Hazmat
Job Placement: No, but website mentions “lifetime career assistance”
Location: St. Louis, Leadington, Cape Girardeau
C1 Truck Driver Training
Since 2,000, C1 has offered structured, fast-paced CDL Class A and Class B programs in Springfield, MO.5 Through C1 programs, students are guided by experienced instructors with tons of industry knowledge. Students receive classroom instruction along with road driving, both in their campus driving range and on the open road.
Tuition: Varies based on location and program
Training Length: Varies based on program
Endorsements: Passenger
Job Placement: No
Location: Springfield
Truck Dynasty Driving Academy
Truck Dynasty Driving Academy is a Missouri-based truck driving training provider offering a Class A CDL course that focuses on individualized instruction in small group classes.6 Their main goal is to help you learn safety-oriented, fuel-efficient driving that you can use on the job, starting from day one.
Tuition: $5,600
Training Length: Four weeks
Endorsements: N/A
Job Placement: No, but their website does mention job placement assistance
Location: Springfield
Professional Trucking Institute
With day, weekend, and evening classes, Professional Trucking Institute offers flexible learning options for students who need schedule accommodations.7 The school operates in Chesterfield, MO, with 1:1 instruction for Class A and Class B CDL courses—along with various additional endorsements upon CDL completion.
Tuition: Requires quoting; financing and aid available
Training Length: Three to five weeks
Endorsements: Passenger, School Bus, and Hazmat
Job Placement: Assistance available before graduation
Location: Chesterfield
Case CDL
Case CDL offers advanced CDL training with one-on-one instruction for local drivers in Vichy, MO.8 Students can choose from two-, three-, and four-day CDL A and CDL B training programs, both with the option of manual and automatic transmission.
Tuition: Starts at $900, varies based on program
Training Length: Varies; many options available
Endorsements: Hazmat (online theory) and School Bus (online theory)
Job Placement: No
Location: Vichy
State Fair Community College — Commercial Driving Academy
State Fair Community College‘s Commercial Driving Academy features a FMCSA-registered Class A CDL program.9 The course consists of remote theory instruction and behind-the-wheel practice on campus, all supplemented with a Virage driving simulator.
Tuition: $5,210
Training Length: About four weeks
Endorsements: N/A
Job Placement: No, but the website mentions job placement services with local over-the-road (OTR) companies
Location: Sedalia
Clement Truck Driving Academy
Located in Lebanon and Neosho, MO, this academy offers both a Class B and Class A CDL course using primarily manual trucks.10 Automatic trucks are available for testing upon request. Training includes classes in theory, pre-trip inspection, backing maneuvers, RPM matching, shifting techniques, and more. One unique feature of Clement Truck Driving Academy is that they offer (paid) lodging options for students who live more than 50 miles from the training site.
Tuition: $3,000-$5,000
Training Length: Two to four weeks, depending on program
Endorsements: N/A
Job Placement: No
Location: Lebanon and Neosho
Moberly Area Community College (MACC)
MACC runs a six-week, 200-hour Class A CDL training program through its Workforce Development Center.11 With 40 hours of lecture and 160 hours of road classes, students learn pre-trip inspection, backing maneuvers, truck safety and regulations, and more.
Tuition: $4,800
Training Length: Six weeks
Endorsements: None
Job Placement: No
Location: Moberly
St. Charles Community College (SCCC)
St. Charles Community College features an eight-week Class A CDL training, with the option to earn their CDL as part of a one- or two-year supply chain and logistics credit degree.12 Since this is a community college program, this training is eligible for financial aid and other payment options.
Tuition: Varies
Training Length: Eight weeks
Endorsements: N/A
Job Placement: No
Location: Cottleville
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Witte Bros. Exchange Truck Driving School
Witte Bros. Exchange features a Class A truck driver training course in Try, MO.13 The program consists of two phases; phase one is roughly five weeks of classroom learning, and phase two is four to six weeks of paid on-the-job training. Curriculum includes accident procedures, emergency repairs, coupling and uncoupling, complex backing, and more.
Tuition: Check with school for details
Training Length: Nine to eleven weeks
Endorsements: No
Job Placement: Guaranteed employment with Witte upon program completion
Location: Troy
Missouri CDL Licensing Requirements
Before you can start working as a professional commercial driver in Missouri, you’ll need to follow the state’s meticulous licensing process. While schools can help you prepare, the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) oversees all testing and issuance of commercial permits and licenses.14
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
Every CDL applicant must start with a CLP. To qualify, you’ll need to:
- Be at least 18 for intrastate driving; 21 for interstate work
- Hold a valid Missouri driver’s license
- Pass the required written knowledge exams
- Provide proof of identity, residency, and medical qualification
Once issued, your CLP must be held for a minimum waiting period before you’re eligible to take the skills test.
Skills and Road Test
Missouri’s CDL skills test includes:
- Pre-trip inspection
- Basic control skills
- On-the-road driving test
Additional Requirements
Some endorsements—such as tankers, passenger, or hazmat—require additional written tests, fingerprinting, or background checks.
Typical CDL School Costs in Missouri
CDL training costs in Missouri vary by school type, program length, and equipment quality, but most programs fall within the $2,000-$7,000 range.
Common Additional Fees
On top of tuition, students may need to budget for additional costs such as:
- DOT physical exam
- Drug screening
- Permit exam fees
- Skills testing fees
- Endorsement tests
- Study materials
Financial Aid, Grants, and Workforce Funding
There are various Missouri CDL programs that participate in WIOA funding, which can cover some or all tuition for eligible students. Training programs may also accept:
- Payment plans
- GI Bill® benefits
- State workforce grants
- Employer tuition reimbursement
How to Choose a Missouri CDL Program
Choosing the right Missouri CDL school depends on your career goals, schedule flexibility, and the type of truck equipment offered.
Transmission Type
Some schools train exclusively on automatic transmissions, while others focus on manual transmissions. Training on manual trucks can qualify you for more jobs and help you avoid the “automatic restriction.”15
Class Size and Instructor Experience
Small classes often mean more time behind the wheel and more opportunity for one-on-one learning. If this is something you’re looking for, be sure to research student-to-instructor ratios on each school website. Also, some schools list instructor qualifications and years of experience, if that’s important to you. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for on their website, feel free to ask the program directly
Next Steps
Missouri is one of the most active freight states in the country, with major interstates and strong hiring demand extending across St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, and beyond.1 With a myriad of CDL training schools to choose from, you can find a program that matches your budget, schedule, and long-term driving goals.
A helpful approach is to create a short list of nearby programs, compare their schedules, look into employer partnerships, and reach out to instructors or admissions reps. Visiting the facility (if it’s close by) or attending virtual tours can give you a better sense of equipment quality and class structure. With the right training, you can be job-ready in just a few weeks and begin a new career in trucking.
CDL Training Missouri FAQs
How long is CDL school in Missouri?
It heavily depends on the program and training schedule. On average, full-time CDL programs in Missouri may take three to eight weeks.
Can I train near St. Louis, Kansas City, or Springfield?
Yes. Missouri has training facilities all around the state, including St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, and more.
Are weekend classes available?
Some schools offer weekend or part-time schedules. Availability varies, so check directly with each program.
Sources:
1 https://www.modot.org/sites/default/files/documents/Freight%20Overview%20FY25.pdf
3 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/wioa
4 https://driverresourcecenter.com/location/st-louis/
5 https://www.c1training.com/truck-driving-schools/c1-springfield
6 https://www.tddallc.com/index.htm
7 https://professionaltruckinginstitute.com/
9 https://www.sfccmo.edu/the-learning-force/commercial-truck-driver-training/
10 https://www.clementcdl.com/
12 https://www.stchas.edu/programs-courses/programs/commercial-driving.php
13 https://drive.wittebros.com/truck-driving-courses/
14 https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/issuance/commercial/
15 https://driverresourcecenter.com/how-to-remove-a-cdl-automatic-restriction/
