Ascertain which class of CDL permit you require from class A, B or C by checking your vehicle's characteristics against information available on the Internet.
Find the Department of Motor Vehicles office most convenient to you within the state and apply for your CDIP. Provide the DMV staffer with the required documents, which includes your regular driver's license and Social Security number. Pay the CDIP fee, which at the time of publication is $10. Your license is valid for six months and allows you to drive a CMV only when joined by someone who has held a regular driver's license for five years and the relevant class of CDL for two years.
Search for your nearest and best truck driving school in the state of Washington. Think about what is included for the price you pay for a truck driving school. For example, does the school you are considering oversee its own examinations? If so, you can pay one flat fee, complete all of your training and testing with your school and have them handle the administration.
Learn the Washington state CDL manual while you complete your practical truck driving training. All of the material contained within the manual will be useful when you take both the written and practical CDL examinations.
Apply for your examinations either at the DMV office or have your school organize your testing. First, take the multiple choice written examination -- your scores from this will be valid for up to a year after the test, allowing you time to progress to the three-part practical assessment. Take the pre-trip inspection as you lead an examiner around the exterior of the CMV and identify the key health, safety and mechanical functions of the vehicle. Progress to the basic controls test, during which you will be accompanied by an examiner in the vehicle as you complete a range of basic truck driving moves. Complete testing by driving on-road joined by an examiner, who assesses your ability to operate a CMV in real-world traffic.
Pay the CDL fees at the DMV, which total $110 at the time of publication. Provide the DMV with your endorsed and sealed skills test form, which proves you have successfully completed practical CDL examinations. Receive your CDL in the relevant class, which you should secure somewhere in the cab of your CMV.
