Overview
The Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program has a long and strong history at Fort Scott Community College. The program restarted after the pandemic in February of 2021. It has been reorganized, retooled and is now in gear and driving forward.
As part of the reorganization, the course now falls into Business and Industry Training. It is currently a 6-week course with two CDL Trainers. New Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Theory requirements include, an introduction to the pre-trip, and backing maneuvers on the Basic Control Skills (BCS) Course. After the ELDT portion has been completed, students are either on the practice course or on the behind the wheel learning the skills for their new career.
Steps for Program Consideration
You will only be considered for the CDL program after completing steps 1–4 (see below) or click HERE for a downloadable PDF of Steps 1-5.
Step 1: Apply to Fort Scott Community College (FSCC)
Submit your online application by visiting the FSCC website and clicking the Apply Now button at the top right of this page. Complete the application form in full.
Step 2: Complete Your DOT Physical and Drug Screen
You must pass both the Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical and DOT Drug Screen to be eligible for enrollment. Review the attached Medical and Legal Qualifications to ensure you meet all requirements.
You have two options for completing and submitting your DOT Physical and Drug Screen:
- Option 1:
If you already have valid physical and drug screen results or choose to obtain them independently, your healthcare provider must send the records directly by fax (620-223-4927) or mail to:
Fort Scott Community College
Attn: CDL Program
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701 - Option 2:
FSCC can provide you with a Medical Authorization Form to take to the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHCSEK). CHCSEK will send the completed records to FSCC on your behalf.
Step 3: Pay the Registration Fee
Pay the non-refundable $150 registration fee. Payment options:
- Mail a check to:
Fort Scott Community College
Attn: CDL Program
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701 - Drop off cash or check in person at:
FSCC Cashier’s Office
Dick Hedges Admin. Building
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Once Steps 1–3 are complete, you will be enrolled in the next available CDL class.
Program cost: $4,250 (The $150 registration fee will be applied toward this amount.)
Step 4: Complete the Truckers Against Trafficking Training
Visit Truckers Against Trafficking, register, complete the training, and download or print your certificate.
Submit a copy of your certificate to FSCC. Tip: Save your username and password so you can log back in if needed.
Step 5: Study for and Obtain Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
Download the Kansas CDL Manual HERE or pick up a physical copy at your local DMV.
You may take the CLP test at your local DMV. Be sure your permit does not expire during the course and is a prerequisite for receiving behind the wheel training.
Financial Assistance Options
The CDL program is not eligible for Federal Financial Aid (Pell Grants or Student Loans), but other assistance may be available such as FSCC Foundation scholarships. Contact us for more details.
- KansasWorks
If you qualify, KansasWorks can help with tuition. Visit www.sekworks.org, click Contact (top right), and find your local office. Reach out before your start date.- Vocational Rehabilitation
Additional funding may be available through Vocational Rehabilitation Services for individuals with qualifying needs or disabilities. Contact your local office for more information.- State Workforce Programs
If you are unemployed, underemployed, or working a low-wage job, you may qualify for assistance through KansasWorks or the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
📌 Visit KansasWorks: https://www.kansasworks.com
📌 Learn about WIOA: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/wioaWhen contacting your local workforce center, ask for a KansasWorks or WIOA representative regarding CDL training funding.
- Dislocated Workers
If you’ve lost your job due to business closure, downsizing, or relocation, you may qualify under the Dislocated Worker Program.
📌 Learn more: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/dislocated-workersContact your nearest workforce center to apply.
- Department for Children and Families (DCF)
If you receive assistance through the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), you may qualify for education and training support.
📌 DCF services and locations: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/Pages/default.aspxSpeak with your caseworker or local DCF office for eligibility details.
- Native American Funding
If you are of Native American descent, your tribe may offer education or career training funds through its education department or workforce development program.Contact your tribal education office directly for funding opportunities.
- Tuition Reimbursement from Trucking Companies
Many trucking companies offer tuition reimbursement to new hires after training.You may consider funding the program through a bank, credit union, or personal source, then arrange to repay it using your employer’s reimbursement program after you’re hired.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Students will learn and demonstrate thorough pre-trip inspections prior to operation of Commercial Motor Vehicles.
- Students will learn and demonstrate safe and competent operation of a Commercial Motor Vehicle on various road types and situations using critical thinking skills to avoid road hazards while following the regulations of the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA).
- After successful completion of the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training program, students will demonstrate their knowledge and skills by passing their CDL driving test for either a Class A or Class B CDL. After testing with FSCC, successful students will then obtain their CDL license from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Students will learn and demonstrate necessary skills to be a productive employee operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle.