How to Get Washington CDL: 6 Steps to Become a Trucker
If you’re looking to pursue a career in the transportation industry or simply want to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) within the state of Washington, you’ll need to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). In this guide, we’ll outline the requirements on how to get a CDL Washington, the application process, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the process and obtain your CDL with confidence.
1. Why do you need a Washington CDL?
If you are planning to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in Washington State, you will need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). A CDL is a special driver’s license that is required for individuals who drive large vehicles or transport hazardous materials. It is mandatory for individuals who operate CMVs that weigh 26,001 pounds or more, or that are designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Additionally, if you plan to transport hazardous materials that require placarding, you must have a CDL.
2. What are the Washington CDL requirements?
To apply for a Washington CDL, you must meet certain requirements.
First, you must be at least 18 years old to operate a CMV within Washington state lines and 21 years old to operate a CMV across state lines. You must also hold a valid Washington State driver’s license and provide proof of legal presence in the United States.
The second requirement is passing a series of tests, including a knowledge test and a skills test:
- The knowledge test will assess your understanding of the rules and regulations that govern CMV operation, such as vehicle inspection, coupling and uncoupling, and hazardous materials handling.
- The skills test consists of a pre-trip inspection, a basic vehicle control test, and an on-road driving test.
Besides, you must also have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate, issued by a licensed medical professional, stating that you are physically qualified to operate a CMV.
Third, you must select the type of CDL you wish to obtain. There are three classes of Washington CDL:
CDL Washington Class A
CDL Class A requires operating a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed has a weight of more than 10,000 pounds.
CDL Washington Class B
CDL Class B requires operating a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds, but towing a trailer with a GVWR of less than 10,000 pounds.
CDL Washington Class C
CDL Class C requires operating a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or to transport hazardous materials that require placarding.
Lastly, you must pay the appropriate fee for your CDL application and any endorsements you wish to obtain. CDL Endorsements are additional qualifications that allow you to transport specific types of cargo, such as passengers, hazardous materials, or tanks.
3. How to apply for a Washington CDL?
In order to apply for a Washington CDL, candidate can follow these steps below:
Step 1: Study the Washington State Commercial Driver Guide to prepare for the knowledge test.
Step 2: Make an appointment with a Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) office to take the knowledge test.
Step 3: Pass the knowledge test and obtain a learner’s permit. The permit allows you to practice driving a CMV with a licensed CDL holder in the vehicle.
Step 4: Obtain the necessary endorsements for your desired CDL class and any specific cargo you plan to transport.
Step 5: Schedule a skills test with a third-party CDL skills testing provider approved by the Washington DOL.
Step 6: Pass the skills test and obtain your CDL.
>> See also: Kansas CDL
4. Washington CDL testing location & time
| BELLEVUE 148TH
14777 NE 40th St. (across from Microsoft) Bellevue, WA 98007 |
BELLEVUE (FACTORIA)
12402 SE 38th St #208 Bellevue, WA 98006 Tue: 6:00 pm Thu: 6:00 pm |
BREMERTON
2901 Perry Ave Bldg 4 #203 Bremerton, WA 98310 Thu: 5:30 pm Sat: 12:30 pm |
| BONNEY LAKE
10221 214th Ave E Bonney Lake, WA 98391 Wed: 5:30 pm (7pm on 5/24-6/21; 4:30pm starting 6/28) Thu: 12 pm (5/11-5/25 only) – walk-in testing is allowed for this session only and must arrive by 12pm. Sat: 11:15 am (11am on 5/27) |
EVERETT (NORTH/COLBY)
2524 Colby Ave Everett, WA 98201 Mon: 5:30 pm (no test 5/29) Sat: 12:00 pm |
ISSAQUAH
1505 NW Gilman #5B Issaquah WA 98027 Wed: 5:30 pm (no test 5/24; no test 5/31-replaced by 6/1 7pm) Sat: 1:00 pm (2pm 5/27, 6/24) |
| KENNEWICK
4303 W 27th AVE, Suite C Kennewick, WA 99338 Schedule varies each week. See the schedule on Schedule Agent or contact your school for the schedule. |
KENT (240TH ST)
13215 SE 240th St Kent, WA 98042 Tue: 7:00 pm Fri: 7:00 pm |
KIRKLAND/BELLEVUE (YARROW POINT)
10505 NE 38th Pl, Bldg 9 Kirkland, WA 98033 Walk-in testing is available anytime during the hours posted below in the walk-in sessions, however pre-registering is preferred. All tests must be started by the time listed below (arrive earlier if you need more than 35 minutes to complete the test). Tue: 4-5 pm walk-in session. Last test starts 5pm Thu: 4-5 pm walk-in session. Last test starts 5pm. |
| LAKE STEVENS
9302 N Davies Rd Lake Stevens, WA 98258 Mon: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Wed: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Fri: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Sat: 1:30pm Not wheelchair accessible. |
LYNNWOOD (EDMONDS/196TH)
7528 196th St SW Lynnwood, WA 98036 Mon: 5:00 pm (no test 5/29) Thu: 4:30 pm Sat: 9:00 am |
MARYSVILLE
1242 State Avenue, Suite F Marysville, WA 98270 Tue: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Thu: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Sat: 1:30 pm |
| MERCER ISLAND
3045 78th Ave Mercer Island, WA 98040 Tue: 7:00 pm Sat: 10:30 am |
MONROE
909 W Main St Monroe, WA 98272 Tue: 5:00 pm (no test 5/9) Fri: 5:00 pm Not wheelchair accessible. |
MOUNT VERNON
422 North 4th St. Suite 102 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Tue and Thu: 6:15 pm |
| OAK HARBOR
520 E. Whidbey Ave Suite 105 Oak Harbor, WA 98277 Tue: 5:30 pm Sat: 12:00 pm |
POULSBO
19351 8th Ave NE #102 Poulsbo, WA 98370 Mon: 6:30 pm Sat: 9:00 am |
REDMOND
8151 164th AVE NE, Suite 104 Redmond, WA 98052 Wed: 7:30 pm Sat: 2:00 pm |
| SEATTLE (U-DISTRICT)
5031 University Way NE #201 Seattle, WA 98105 Meet your instructor 5 minutes before test time at West Entrance which faces Brooklyn Ave. Mon: 7:00 pm (no test 5/29, 6/12) Tue: 7:00 pm Wed: 7:00 pm Thu: 7:00 pm Fri: 7:00 pm (6:00pm and 7:15pm starting 5/26) Sat: 2:00 pm Sat: 5:00 pm (3:45pm on 6/24) Sun: 7:30 pm (starting 6/25) |
SILVERDALE
9481 Silverdale Way, Suite 213 Silverdale, WA 98393 Tue: 2:00 pm Fri: 7:00 pm |
SMOKEY POINT
16710 Smokey Point Blvd #101 Arlington, WA 98223 Mon: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Wed: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Fri: 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Sat: 1:30 pm |
| SNOHOMISH
821 Ave D Snohomish, WA 98290 Tue: 6:00 pm Fri: 1:00 pm |
STANWOOD
7204 267th ST NW, Suite 104 Stanwood, WA 98292 Wed: 6:15 pm Sat: 12:00 pm |
WEST SEATTLE
4700 42nd Ave SW #500 Seattle, WA 98116 Tue: 7:30 pm Fri: 6:30 pm Sat: 1:00 pm |
5. FAQs about Washington CDL
Q: How long is a Washington CDL valid?
A: Your CDL is valid for up to five years, depending on your age and medical certification. You will need to renew your CDL before it expires.
Q: How much does it cost to obtain a Washington CDL?
A: The cost of a Washington CDL varies depending on the class of CDL you are applying for and any endorsements you wish to obtain. As of May 2023, the fees are as follows: $89 for a Class A CDL, $76 for a Class B CDL, and $58 for a Class C CDL. Endorsements cost an additional $12 each.
Q: Can I apply for a CDL if I have a criminal record?
A: Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a CDL. However, certain offenses, such as drug or alcohol-related offenses, may prevent you from obtaining a CDL. It is best to consult with the Washington DOL to determine your eligibility.
Q: Do I need to take a training course to obtain a CDL in Washington?
A: While Washington state does not require CDL training, it is recommended. CDL training can help you learn the skills necessary to pass the skills test and operate a CMV safely.
Q: Can I drive a CMV in Washington with an out-of-state CDL?
A: Yes, you can drive a CMV in Washington with an out-of-state CDL, as long as your CDL is valid and you are not a resident of Washington state. If you become a resident of Washington, you must obtain a Washington CDL within 30 days.
Q: Can I renew my CDL online?
A: Yes, you can renew your Washington CDL online if you meet certain criteria, such as having a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate on file with the Washington DOL. If you do not meet the criteria, you will need to renew your CDL in person at a Washington DOL office.
In conclusion, obtaining a Washington CDL is necessary if you plan to operate a commercial motor vehicle within the state. To obtain a CDL, you must meet certain requirements, pass a series of tests, and pay the appropriate fees. It is also recommended to undergo CDL training to ensure safe and responsible CMV operation. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking some Washington CDL practice test, you can obtain your CDL and begin a career in the transportation industry.