If you’re seeking employment where you’ll be performing heavy equipment hauling, you’ll need to obtain your CDL. Here at AA Asphalting we’re often hiring for positions that require a Washington state CDL license. Even if a CDL is not required, we value it so highly as a skill, that for many positions, we pay an hourly incentive if you bring one to the table.
Commercial driver’s license requirements vary from state to state, so if you’re considering a career with AA Asphalting, you’ll need to make sure you’re up-to-date on the requirements and prepared for what getting a Washington state CDL license entails.
So, how do you get a CDL license in Washington state? The good news is that if you’re hired by a company like AA Asphalting, their team will help walk you through the steps as part of the onboarding and training process. Some companies, including ours, will provide on the job, paid training to meet the requirements for a CDL.
As a prospective Driver, you’re only out the cost of licensing and testing once complete. If you’re curious about what steps you’ll need to take to get your CDL, here is a quick overview of the process from start to finish.
GET IN TOUCH
Start Your Career
Washington State CDL Eligibility
There are minimum requirements in place for CDL eligibility in Washington. If you’re only going to be driving within Washington state, you must be at least 18 years or older. If you plan on driving interstate, you’ll need to be at least 21 years of age.
Additionally, you must have a current, valid driver’s license and have no lifetime disqualifications on your license.
Minimum Requirements For Obtaining A Washington State CDL License:
- 18 years or older with a valid Washington driver license.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or on-domicile document.
- Self-certify the type of operation you will be conducting. Medical documents may be required.
- Pass the Knowledge Test for the type of vehicle you will be licensed to operate.
- Get a Commercial License Permit (CLP).
- Submit your training certificate to CDLtrainingcerts@dol.wa.gov for approval.
- Schedule and pay for your skills test.
- Conduct and pass the skills test.
Washington State CDL Application
Once you’ve determined that you’ve met the licensing criteria and are eligible for a CDL, you’ll need to visit the Washington State Department of Licensing to file a formal application. Note that you’ll need to find a branch of the driver’s licensing department which offers knowledge tests for CDL licenses, as not all locations may offer this kind of testing. Once you’ve found a location that can service you, you’ll need to follow the steps below to get the ball rolling:
- Make an appointment
- Bring all necessary documents (you’ll need your current driver’s license, SSN, and proof of U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or non-domicile document)
- Self-certify to the type of vehicle you will be operating
- Pass the CDL Knowledge Test
- Receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit
- Complete the appropriate training requirements for your CDL
- Schedule and take your skills test
- Make an appointment for CDL issuance
Washington State CDL Training and Tests
When you take your CDL knowledge test, your test version will vary depending on the type of vehicle you’re being licensed to drive. You’ll want to study the CDL commercial driver guide as you prepare for your knowledge test. CDL knowledge tests include a general portion, and then specific areas based on features related to passenger vehicles, air brakes, school buses, tank vehicles or vehicles carrying hazardous materials.
When it’s time to take your skills test, be prepared to spend about two hours doing so—and make sure you bring an unloaded commercial vehicle to complete the test in. Your skills test covers your practical knowledge of three main topics: a pre-trip inspection, basic controls test and a road test. Note that if you do not pass the pre-trip inspection test, you will automatically fail the full test.
While taking the test, you’re not allowed to use an interpreter, utilize aids or label various components. After passing the test, you’ll have to wait at least 24 hours before your CDL can be officially issued. Your test score will be valid for 180 days, so that is the amount of time you’ll have to get your CDL made.
Are you looking to get into the commercial asphalt services industry for a lifelong career with great pay, benefits and rewarding work? If so, consider a career with AA Asphalting.
We have a variety of current career opportunities available to anyone eager to get involved with one of the leading asphalt repair companies for Northwest asphalt. We’ll even help you get your Washington state CDL license so there are no unnecessary barriers to you applying.
We’re hiring! Learn about our signing bonus and see open positions.