How much does a CDL cost in Washington State?

The Washington CDL Instruction Permit fee is $40.00. The full CDL license fee is typically around $102.00 for a 6-year license (this includes the base license fee plus the CDL endorsement fee).

What are the chain requirements for Snoqualmie Pass?

From November 1 to April 1, all commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs GVW MUST carry chains on mountain passes like Snoqualmie and Stevens Pass. When 'Chains Required' is posted, you must install them or face fines over $500.

Washington State CDL Practice Test 2026: DOL Fees & Chain Laws

State Guides Dec 19, 2025

Washington State is a vital gateway for trade with Asia. But to drive here, you must conquer the Cascade Mountain Range. The weather on Snoqualmie Pass can change from rain to a blizzard in minutes.

The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) manages the licensing, but testing is largely privatized. This 2026 guide covers the fees, chain laws, and the unique training requirements.

1. Washington's Mandatory Training (IDT vs ELDT)

Washington is one of the strictest states for training. You cannot just "challenge" the test.

The Rule: You must complete a training course at an approved Driver Training School.
Training Certificate: Once you finish training, the school uploads your certificate to the DOL database. You cannot schedule your skills test without this record.
Privatized Testing: The DOL does not give the driving test. You must pay a private school or third-party tester (fees range from $150 to $250).

2. Washington DOL CDL Fees (2026)

You pay the DOL for the license, but you pay private companies for the tests.

Item	Cost	Payable To
Instruction Permit (CLP)	$40.00	DOL
Knowledge Test	$35.00+	Training School
Skills Test	$175.00+	Training School
CDL License Issuance	~$102.00	DOL (6 Years)

3. The Strict Chain Laws (Nov 1 - Apr 1)

If you drive I-90 (Snoqualmie) or US-2 (Stevens Pass), listen up.

Mandatory Carry: From Nov 1 to April 1, you MUST carry chains. Even if the sun is shining.
"Chains Required": When signs flash, you must chain up.
Placement: For a standard 5-axle semi:
- Place chains on all 4 tires of the drive axles (or at least the outside tires of both axles).
- Drag Chains: You may need chains on the trailer tires to prevent fishtailing.

4. Washington Practice Questions

1. From November 1 to April 1, all commercial vehicles traveling on Washington mountain passes must:

A. Install chains at all times.

B. Carry sufficient tire chains to meet the requirement.

C. Drive 10 mph below the speed limit.

Correct Answer: B.
You must *carry* the chains during this season regardless of weather. Failure to carry them results in a fine of $503. Failure to *install* them when required costs even more.

2. When descending a long, steep grade in the Cascades (like Snoqualmie Pass), the most important braking technique is:

A. Fanning the brakes.

B. Selecting the proper low gear and using the engine brake.

C. Riding the service brakes lightly.

Correct Answer: B.
Washington's passes are long. Service brakes will fade and fail if used continuously. You must rely on the engine brake (Jake Brake) and transmission to hold the truck back.

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Conclusion

Washington drivers are some of the best mountain drivers in the world. Respect the chain law, get your training certificate, and you will be ready for the road.

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