Renewing Your CDL in Washington

When to Renew

The state of Washington is in the process of changing the length of time your license is valid. Until June 2020 your Washington commercial driver's license (CDL) could be valid until your birthday 6 years for a standard CDL or 8 years for an enhanced CDL. Valid from the date of issue. You can renew your CDL with the Department of Licensing up to 1 year before it expires.

New Federal Requirements

Medical Certificate Requirements

All CDL holders who operate for interstate commerce must keep a current medical examiner's certificate on file with the Department of Licensing (DOL). You are not held to this requirement if you operate only within Washington state (intrastate).

Self-Certification Requirements

You must self-certify your type of commercial driving with the DOL in person. This means choosing from one of three driving categories:

  • Non-excepted interstate commercial driver
  • Excepted interstate commercial driver
  • Intrastate driver

All non-excepted interstate commercial drivers must submit a medical examiner's certificate when completing the self-certification form.

Go in Person

You will have to go in person to your local Department of Licensing office to renew your CDL. You will need to provide any updated information, like a new home or business address. You may also be required to have a new Medical Examination Report (Form 649-F). To upgrade your CDL, you'll also have to pass additional knowledge tests for the endorsements you're applying for.

NOTE: The following office locations DO NOT accept credit or debit cards: Coulee Dam, Davenport, Friday Harbor, Forks, Goldendale, Newport, Republic, or South Bend.

Renewing a Hazardous Materials Endorsement

Hauling hazardous materials requires that you be knowledgeable about the type of substances you're transporting. When you are hauling a hazmat load, you have the added responsibility of being extra careful on the roadways because any accident could turn into a disaster if the material is released from its containers.

The federal government wants to make sure you can be trusted with hazardous materials. Therefore, regulations require you to submit to a background check and fingerprinting every time you renew your hazmat endorsement. Furthermore, you'll need to take the hazmat endorsement written test when you apply for a renewal. This is to make sure commercial drivers are up-to-date on their hazmat knowledge.

Fees

  • CDL renewal: Standard CDL valid 6 years: $157 (Enhanced CDL valid 8 years $199).
  • Renewal with motorcycle: Standard CDL valid 6 years $187 (Enhanced CDL valid 8 years $229).

Forms

649-F
Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness Determination
Medical examination form required when you apply for a Washington commercial driver's license. Must be completed by a doctor.
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