Truck Driver Career Guide in Washington
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Washington.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Washington
Washington CDL schools teach vehicle inspection, backing, shifting, coupling, defensive driving, mountain and adverse-weather operation, hours-of-service rules, and cargo securement. Washington also regulates commercial-driver training schools and program standards.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Truck Driver Salary in Washington
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Washington median wage for truck driver workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $57,440, the median wage in Washington is approximately $7,320 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Washington
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONTruck Driver Training Requirements in Washington
Washington heavy truck drivers generally need a Class A CDL and must complete required commercial-driver education and federal Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Washington identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical requirements.
- Pass required knowledge tests and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete training through an approved commercial-driver training school or qualifying employer program.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, backing and basic-control, and on-road skills tests.
- Obtain required endorsements and complete employer-specific mountain, winter, cargo, or port-operation training.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Washington
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Bates Technical College | Tacoma | View Program |
| Walla Walla Community College | Walla Walla | View Program |
| Skagit Valley College | Mount Vernon | View Program |
| Spokane Community College | Spokane | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESTruck Driver Apprenticeship Programs in Washington
Washington Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Washington
Washington tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete state-approved and federally compliant commercial-driver training, meet medical standards, and pass CDL knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Washington
Washington projects employment to rise from approximately 40,140 drivers in 2022 to 43,490 in 2032, representing 8% growth and about 5,010 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the truck driver salary in Washington?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Washington is approximately $64,760 per year, or $31.13 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Washington require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Washington requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt truck driver work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Washington State Department of Licensing.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Washington?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 3–6 Months + OJT, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are truck drivers in demand in Washington?
Washington projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 8% from 2022 to 2032, with about 5,010 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Washington Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Washington Truck Driver Wages
- Washington Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Washington Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Washington State Department of Licensing — Licensing authority. Washington State Department of Licensing