How to get a CDL in Washington

Fees and rules

Issued by

Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL)

Learner's permit (CLP) fee

$40

Knowledge test fee

$35 (covers one attempt at each knowledge test within 90 days)

Skills (road) test fee

$175 (truck/passenger, includes 2 attempts); school bus $100

CDL license fee

$17 per year of license term on top of the regular license fee (e.g., $102 CDL portion; $163 total for a 6-year renewal)

CLP is valid for

180 days; one renewal for another 180 days

Minimum age (within the state)

18 (21 for interstate)

Test languages

English, Spanish, Russian, Serbo-Croatian (no interpreters); CDL guide in English only

Where the skills test is given

Both: DOL examiners and independent third-party examiners (TPE); DOL must authorize TPE testing

Medical card

Self-certify as part of the CLP application; medical certificate if non-excepted

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Training provider must report completion to DOL and FMCSA before the skills test

Official sources

“The fee for a CLP is $40.” dol.wa.gov

“A CLP is valid for 180 days from the date issued.” dol.wa.gov

“You can self-certify as part of the permit application process.” dol.wa.gov

“The knowledge test is available in 4 languages (interpreters aren't allowed):” dol.wa.gov

“Any driver over 18 years old with a valid WA driver license can apply for a CLP.” dol.wa.gov

“CDL knowledge test $35” dol.wa.gov

“Renew with CDL endorsement ($61 renew + $102 CDL =) $163 for 6 years” dol.wa.gov

“Truck or passenger (excluding school bus) skills test taken with an independent third-party examiner (TPE) or DOL examiner: $175” dol.wa.gov

“We must authorize you to test with a third-party examiner (TPE) before they can schedule your test.” dol.wa.gov