Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Truck Driver (CDL) in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
Physical Requirement: Physical exam required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
Individuals driving vehicles over 26,000 pounds, designed to transport 16 or more people, school busese, vehicles transporting hazardous materials require a commercial drivers license.
- 7
Individuals must pass written and driving tests, and pay required fee ($110 in most cases).
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- certificate on file with the Department of Licensing, a requirement that does not apply for individuals only operating within the state
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,760 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Licensing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $63,760, Truck Driver (CDL)s in Washington earn 11% above the national median of $57,440. Washington ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$63,760Hourly estimate
$30.6511% above national median
Difference: +$6,320
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Truck Driver (CDL) median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $64,890 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $64,720 |
| #3 | Washington | $63,760 |
| #4 | Oregon | $61,180 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $61,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Truck Driver (CDL) licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Licensing
2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502
Phone: 3606646488
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $123,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $85,010 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Washington?
Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Truck Driver (CDL)s.
What education do you need to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Washington is $63,760. Salaries range from $48,420 (10th percentile) to $88,710 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in Washington earn 11% above the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $63,760.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 40,700 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Licensing. Review agency details at https://dol.wa.gov/about/contact-us/business-and-professional-licensing-contact-information.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.