Truck drivers in Washington may work within the state’s borders or may choose to drive between states. Either way, regardless of the scope of their journey, these professionals play a critical role in sustaining the state economy and ensuring that people can get goods and raw materials as easily and quickly as possible.
In the article below, we provide a detailed breakdown of the considerations that all aspiring truck drivers in Washington must know to begin their careers and do so on the best possible path. We look at the most notable training programs for comprehensive training, and the certification and licensing requirements.
Those curious about the salaries to expect as a fresh truck driver in the state will also receive the answers they need in the concluding section.
How to Become a Truck Driver in Washington
The following is a step-by-step breakdown of the requirements to become a truck driver in Washington.
Step 1: Understanding the Basic Requirements
The basic requirements for becoming a truck driver in Washington include age, citizenship, and documents.
Concerning age requirements, candidates must be at least 18 years old or 21 years old to handle hazardous materials. They must also have proof of citizenship and a handful of medical documents to show that they are in good physical shape and have full vision in both eyes.
Step 2: Acquiring Training
Washington State boasts a lot of top-quality destinations for students to acquire in-depth truck driving lessons while preparing for their CDL tests. These programs will typically combine classroom training with hands-on driving lessons in scenarios designed to mimic the skills test aspect of the CDL licensing exams.
Most CDL programs will include 160 hours of training. Below, we highlight a few notable CDL training programs for candidates in the state to consider.
Step 3: Passing The Exams
Candidates earning a CDL in Washington must pass a knowledge exam first. Their exams contain 50 questions to test a driver’s proficiency in key areas.
Candidates must get at least an 80% score to pass. Once this part of the exam is complete, they may participate in the skills test.
Step 4: Considering Endorsements
Truck drivers may pursue endorsements to specialize in certain types of trucks or materials. For instance, there are endorsements for double/triple trailers, gaseous materials, and hazardous materials.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
The above steps should ensure that aspiring truck drivers in Washington qualify for commercial driver’s licenses. Other possible requirements include showing proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency and submitting training certificates to the officials.
Candidates must also be able to distinguish colors effectively, be drug-free, and have a blood sugar that is not over 200.
Applying for a CDL in Washington also comes with costs, including $35 for the knowledge test, $250 for the skill test, and $40 for the commercial learner’s permit.
Candidates should also expect to pay $100 to earn a school bus endorsement and $191 to transfer a CDL from another state to Washington. Lastly, the commercial driver’s license is a standard $102 fee.
Top Truck Driving Schools in Washington
Below are some of the top truck driving schools in Washington:
160 Driving Academy
160 Driving Academy provides residents of Seattle with a top-quality training program to prepare for their CDL tests. Candidates must be at least 21 years old to apply. They must also have a 7-year minimum driving record.
Washington Truck School
Washington Truck School maintains a student-to-instructor ratio of 3:1 for optimal training. The program includes both classroom learning and training on the road.
Perry Technical Institute
Known for top-quality trade and technical programs, Perry Technical Institute offers a strong CDL training program that includes classroom topics, visual inspections, on-the-road driving, and more.
Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
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Salary & Career Outlook
In Washington, truck drivers typically earn an annual average salary of $89,878 – that is, if they fall among the 50th percentile of earners in the state. Those among the highest paid in the top 10% will take home a salary of around $118,387 annually.
Of course, it is also possible to be among the lowest paid in the state, taking home an annual average salary of $68,235. The factors differentiating the top earners from the bottom range from experience and location to specialty areas and the company of employment.
Grouping by location only, we find that truck drivers in Bellingham take home an average salary of around $103,349 yearly, while truck drivers in Auburn earn an annual average salary of $90,310. Truck drivers in Pasco can expect to earn an annual average salary of $89,735, and truck drivers in Seattle earn an annual average salary of $85,818.
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