CDL in Washington

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is necessary to drive any type of large truck or “rig.” It is also necessary for driving buses or transport vehicles. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) oversees the CDL process, including the education process necessary to obtain a CDL. Every state has minimum requirements, but Washington has additional standards that must be met by the drivers.

To apply for a CDL, applicants must be 18 years of age, have a regular driver’s license, have proof of identity and a Social Security number, pay the fees to the DOL, and pass the knowledge and skills tests.

In addition to a CDL, some types of drivers will need special endorsements for specific types of vehicles. Endorsements require special knowledge and skills tests. The Washington State endorsements are:

1. P1 and P2 - for vehicles that carry 16 or more people, including the driver

2. T - pulling double or triple trailers

3. N - for driving tanks that carry liquids or liquid gases

4. H - carrying hazardous materials with a vehicle marked with a placard

5. X - carrying hazardous materials in tanks

6. K - for driving vehicles with air brakes.

Driving hazardous materials is federally regulated and drivers must pass a background check.

Certain restrictions apply to CDL licensing. Drivers may have a CDL if they are 18 years old, but they must be 21 years old to drive to other states. Driving with air brakes requires additional testing. Drivers with a CDIL (commercial driver instruction permit) cannot drive hazardous materials.

Drivers can prepare for the knowledge test by studying the Commercial Driver Guide from the DOL. There are many places online to take practice tests. For the skills test, drivers should expected to spend about 90 minutes on the road with an evaluator. The skills tested include inspection of the vehicle before beginning the trip, actual driving on the road, and the ability to maneuver the truck, rig, or vehicle.

Having a CDL is a privilege, and drivers who receive traffic tickets will face special consequences because of the responsibility of their driving position.