How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider.

How much does CDL school cost?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment.

How do I get a CDL in Washington?

To get a CDL in Washington: 1) Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate), 2) Have a valid Washington driver's license, 3) Pass a DOT physical exam, 4) Complete ELDT training from an FMCSA-approved school, 5) Pass the CDL written and skills tests at your local Washington DOL. There are 361 FMCSA-verified CDL schools across 148 cities in Washington.

How much does CDL training cost in Washington?

CDL training in Washington typically costs between $3,500 and $7,500, depending on the program type and duration. Many schools offer financing, and you may qualify for WIOA grants (up to $10,000), GI Bill benefits for veterans, or company-sponsored training programs that are often free.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Washington?

CDL training programs in Washington typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time programs or 8-16 weeks for part-time/weekend programs. After completing ELDT-approved training, you can schedule your skills test at a Washington testing location. Most students complete the entire process in 1-3 months.

What are the best CDL schools in Washington?

Washington has 361 FMCSA-verified CDL schools. The best schools offer: ELDT compliance, manual transmission training (no automatic restriction), job placement assistance, and flexible schedules. Popular cities for CDL training include Tacoma, Olympia, Puyallup, Port Angeles, Tukwila. Compare schools by tuition, program length, and student reviews.

Where can I take the CDL test in Washington?

CDL testing in Washington is administered by the Washington DOL. You can find testing locations throughout the state, including in major cities like Tacoma, Olympia, Puyallup. Visit https://www.dol.wa.gov for testing locations and to schedule your exam.

Updated for 2026 • FMCSA Compliant

CDL Training & Truck Driving Schools in Washington

Find 361 FMCSA-verified truck driving programs in Washington.Compare tuition, duration, and job placement offers.

361 Schools

148 Cities

$3,500 - $7,500 Avg

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100% FMCSA Verified

Updated Daily

50,000+ Students Helped

ELDT Compliant

Washington CDL training options below are pulled from the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. CDL Schools USA is an independent directory; we verify that each listed school is properly registered and ELDT-compliant before adding or updating it.

361 verified programs available

🚛 Major Trucking Hubs in Washington:

Tacoma20 schools Olympia15 schools Puyallup11 schools Port Angeles8 schools Tukwila7 schools

Browse CDL Schools by City in Washington

Select a city below to view available CDL training programs. Cities are sorted by number of schools available.

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Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
(A) Community Transit FMCSA Verified	Everett	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
#1 DRIVE509 FMCSA Verified	Spokane Valley	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
054 Hulcher Services Inc. FMCSA Verified	Pasco	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
12125 Seattle FMCSA Verified	Seattle	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
12125 Seattle-Lake City FMCSA Verified	Seattle	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
12746 Nine Mile Falls FMCSA Verified	Nine Mile Falls	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
12751 Newport FMCSA Verified	Newport	Class AClass B	VA Approved	View Details
1355 Ben Franklin Transit FMCSA Verified	Richland	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Seattle Office FMCSA Verified	Renton	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Seattle Yard FMCSA Verified	Seattle	Class AClass B	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Spokane Classroom FMCSA Verified	Spokane	Class AClass BHazmatTanker		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Spokane Yard FMCSA Verified	Mead	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy -Tacoma Classroom FMCSA Verified	Tacoma	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
160 Driving Academy -Tacoma Yard FMCSA Verified	Tacoma	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
2019 - Everett - WA - National Express FMCSA Verified	Everett	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Washington

Avg. Private School

$6,800

Avg. Public School

$4,000

Price Range

$3,500 - $8,200

Seattle area is expensive, eastern WA more affordable.

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Everything You Need to Get a CDL in Washington

Average CDL Tuition in Washington

$3,500 - $7,500

Based on 361 training programs in Washington. Prices vary by program length and endorsements.

Company-sponsored: Often FREE
WIOA Grants: Up to $10,000
GI Bill®: Full coverage for veterans

CDL Requirements for Washington

Must be 18+ (21+ for interstate)
Valid Washington driver's license
DOT medical card (physical exam)
ELDT training from approved provider
Pass Washington DOL written & skills test

Visit Washington DOL Website

Types of CDL Training Available in Washington

Class A CDL

Tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, tankers

Class B CDL

Straight trucks, buses, dump trucks

Endorsements

Hazmat, Tanker, Doubles, Passenger

CDL Testing Locations in Washington

Contact the Washington DOL for official CDL testing locations and scheduling information.

Find Testing Locations on Washington DOL

CDL Schools in Neighboring States

Looking for more options? Check out CDL training programs in states bordering Washington.

Oregon Idaho

💡 Tip: Some schools near state borders accept students from neighboring states.

More Resources for Washington CDL Students

📝Washington CDL Practice Test 🩺DOT Physicals in Washington 💰Paid CDL Training 🚛Truck Driver Jobs

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Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Washington

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Guide

Start Your CDL Career in Washington Today

Join thousands of Washington residents who've launched successful trucking careers through our verified schools.

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CDL Training & Truck Driving Schools in Washington

🚛 Major Trucking Hubs in Washington:

Browse CDL Schools by City in Washington

Tacoma

Olympia

Puyallup

Port Angeles

Tukwila

Lakewood

East Wenatchee

Colville

Richland

Quincy

Ellensburg

Othello

Moses Lake

Sumner

Union Gap

Burlington

Fife

Raymond

Centralia

Arlington

Bremerton

Ferndale

Friday Harbor

Walla Walla

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Tuition Costs in Washington

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Everything You Need to Get a CDL in Washington

Average CDL Tuition in Washington

CDL Requirements for Washington

Types of CDL Training Available in Washington

Class A CDL

Class B CDL

Endorsements

CDL Testing Locations in Washington

CDL Schools in Neighboring States

More Resources for Washington CDL Students

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

Related Resources

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