Frequently asked questions

What are the requirements to get a CDL?

18 years or older with a valid WA driver license check your license status. To operate commercial vehicles from state to state (interstate) you must be at least 21 years old.

Who does not have a lifetime disqualification.

Which class of CDL do I need?

The class of CDL you need depends on the type of vehicle you plan to drive.

Class A CDL: Any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of at least 26,001 pounds, when the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is 10,000 pounds or more. With a Class A license, you can drive a semi-tractor trailer, double or triple trailer, tanker, flatbed, or any vehicle that falls under a Class B or Class C license.

Class B CDL: Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or towing a vehicle weighing up to 10,000 pounds. With a Class B license, you can drive a bus, box truck, dump trick, and some Class C vehicles.

Class C CDL: With a Class C license, you can drive a passenger van, small HAZMAT vehicle, or other vehicles that have 16 passengers or more.

Other licenses:: We also offer specialized school bus training, passenger vehicle training, and HAZMAT training.

How much does it cost to get my CDL?

Our tuition varies by program, so how much you pay will depend on whether you’re getting a Class A CDL, Class B CDL, Class C CDL, or other training. Contact us today to find out more about the program you’re interested in.

Do I need to get my CDL permit before the class starts?

You are not required to have your commercial learner’s permit before you start class, however you should complete your DOT Physical, and begin studying the Commercial Driver’s Guide so you are prepared to test prior to your second week. You can also take a practice test here: Driving Tests website.

What should I expect when I start traning?

Each of our courses combines classroom training with hands-on experience. In our four-week Class A CDL training course, for example, you’ll spend the first five days in the classroom learning general safety regulations and operating procedures and preparing for your CDL permit test. You’ll spend the second week learning how to conduct a complete pre-trip inspection, including both in-cab and outside inspections. The third week is spent on the range, learning how to maneuver and back the truck and trailer. In the final week, you’ll spend time on the road driving, accompanied by one of our instructors. You’ll gain practice in road laws and how the truck drives, and you’ll have time to continue practicing backing maneuvers.

Our other courses are a little shorter but follow a similar progression. You can contact us to find out more about the schedule for any particular class. For both classroom and hands-on training, you should expect a small class size with a 3:1 student to instructor ratio, meaning you’ll receive plenty of personalized attention.

How long does it take to get my CDL?

Washington State requires drivers to have 160 hours of training to qualify for a Class A CDL. At Tacoma Truck School, you can complete your training in four weeks. Our program includes 40 hours of classroom education and 120 hours of field time, which includes vehicle pre trip inspection, basic control, and street driving, so you’ll be fully prepared before you hit the road on your own.