WA Commercial Drivers

There is a great deal of information Washington commercial drivers must take in heed before attempting to even obtain the licensing for the vehicles and purpose they intend. There are several things that are much different about the licensing processes for CDL drivers in Washington than for the standard drivers of the state, which requires that you are well aware of the procedures that affect you and your licensing processes within Washington.

Do You Need Washington CDL?

A Washington commercial driver’s license is required for the following types of vehicles operated within the state:

• Vehicles with a weight of 26,001 lbs. or greater
• Vehicles with intent to haul trailers with weight of 10.001 lbs. or greater, that have a combined weight 26,001 lbs. or greater
• Vehicles used to transport 16 people or more simultaneously, with the total including the driver
• Vehicles used to transport hazmat materials in placarded amounts

What Type of CDL Is Required?

There are different classes assigned to commercial vehicles in Washington, which range from A to C. The higher CDL class license you hold, the more vehicles you are permitted to operate with this license considering you have obtained the appropriate endorsements.

• Class A CDL: Operation of vehicles in any combination with GVWR at least 26,001 lbs. or greater with vehicle towed over 10,000 pounds if applies.
• Class B CDL: Operation of any single commercial vehicle with GVWR at least 26,001 lbs. or greater, or such a vehicle towing another vehicle with maximum GVWR of 10,000 lbs.
• Class C CDL: Operation of any single commercial vehicle or a combination of such that is not referred to or covered by Class A or B, but is intended and designed for purpose of transporting 16 passengers or more, or has placard required for transport of hazardous materials.

Washington Commercial Driver Resources

There is much information for you to dig into when seeking out commercial driving privileges in the state of Washington. Much of this information is provided by the Department of Licensing in the state and can be found through the various links below.

• Hazmat Endorsements
• CDL Skills Testing
• Drug and Alcohol Screen for CDL Drivers
• School Bus Operation
• CDL Medical Exams
• CDL Instructional Permit

There are several different procedures to follow, forms to complete and submit, and paperwork to utilize in order to obtain your Washington commercial driver’s license and the endorsements that you may need for employment and operation of the commercial vehicles you handle. There are also various restrictions that you will need to know about before you get behind the wheel. All this information is found nestled within the pages of 4DMV.com and can make sure that you are the most informed and aware CDL driver in Washington that you could possibly be.