Commercial Driver License in Washington
Quick Answer
To obtain a CDL in Washington, pass written and driving tests and pay approximately $110. Required for vehicles 26,000+ lbs, 16+ passenger vehicles, school buses, and hazmat transport. Exempt: farmers, firefighters, RV operators, some military drivers. Interstate drivers must maintain a medical examiner's certificate with DOL. ELDT required for new CDLs.
- Exam
- CDL Written + Driving Tests
- Total Cost
- $110 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-6 weeks
- Background Check
- Required
Requirements
Commercial Driver license in Washington
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $110
- Total Estimated Cost
- $110
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Commercial Driver license in Washington. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Washington licensing board.
Commercial Driver Salary in Washington
Entry Level
$48,420
Median
$63,760
Experienced
$88,710
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Commercial Driver in Washington.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — CDL Written + Driving Tests
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$110.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-6 weeks.
Commercial Driver Licensing in Washington: What to Know
Washington provides state-specific detail. Interstate commerce drivers must keep a current medical examiner's certificate on file with the Department of Licensing (not required for intrastate-only drivers). A CDL is required for: vehicles over 26,000 pounds, vehicles designed for 16+ people, school buses, and vehicles transporting hazardous materials. Exceptions: farmers, firefighters, RV operators, military commercial drivers who meet specified requirements. Applicants must pass written and driving tests and pay required fee ($110 in most cases). A specific course is required (ELDT) and a state exam must be passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Commercial Driver license cost in Washington?
- The estimated total cost is $110, including application fees, and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Commercial Driver license in Washington?
- The process typically takes 2-6 weeks, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Commercial Driver license in Washington?
- You need to pass the CDL Written + Driving Tests. State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Commercial Driver requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.