What Age Can You Get a CDL in Washington State?

If you’re a teenager wondering when you’ll be able to get a CDL in Washington, you’re not alone. We hear this question all the time from young drivers eager to start their high-paying careers, as well as from parents wondering if trucking is a realistic option for their kids.

The answer isn’t complicated, but there are a few things you need to know about age, license type, and driving restrictions.

Why Would a Teenager Want to Get a CDL?

At New Sound CDL School, we’ve seen a growing number of 18- and 19-year-olds choose trucking right out of high school. It’s not hard to understand why.

Some young people are eager to get moving, earn real money, and stay out of debt. While many of their peers are signing up for student loans or stuck in low-paying hourly jobs, these CDL students are hitting the road, stacking cash, and gaining financial independence early.

For those who are single, energetic, and open to travel, driving professionally can be a great fit. Regional and even long-haul routes feel more doable at this age, and many teens see it as a short-term career that can set them up for long-term freedom. We’ve seen students drive full-time from 18 to 23, then pivot out of trucking with five years of experience and plenty of investment capital in the bank (oftentimes enough to buy property, start a business, or support a family with no debt hanging over them).

In other words, trucking can be a way to quickly get ahead instead of filing in line with everyone else just to fall behind. Getting a CDL isn’t always about signing up for a lifetime of driving; it works just as well for those who are simply looking for a financial launching pad.

Minimum Age to Get a CDL in Washington

You can get a CDL in Washington as early as 18 years old. But there’s a catch:

• If you’re 18 to 20 years old, your CDL will only allow you to drive within Washington State. You cannot drive across state lines until you turn 21.
• Once you turn 21, your CDL becomes valid for interstate driving, meaning you can haul loads across state lines and take on more lucrative jobs in the longhaul sector.

This applies to Class A, B, and C CDLs.

What CDL Class Should You Get at 18?

Most students choose to start with a Class A CDL, since it offers the most flexibility and job opportunities. At New Sound, we strongly recommend manual transmission training so you don’t end up with restrictions on your license.

You can also get a Class B CDL at 18. These licenses are ideal for local jobs like:

• Delivery trucks
• Dump trucks
• Buses
• Utility service vehicles

You could even first get your Class B to gain experience before upgrading to a Class A at 21 and going interstate on long distance semi-truck trips.

What Kinds of Jobs Can You Get With an Under-21 CDL?

You won’t be eligible for long-haul trucking jobs until you’re 21, but there are still plenty of local and regional opportunities in Washington.

These might include:

• Local food delivery
• Beverage and vending machine routes
• Dump truck work for city or county contracts
• Yard jockey or warehouse support
• In-town freight transfer

Many companies in Washington prefer to hire younger drivers for these positions, especially if they trained at a state-recognized school like New Sound.

Is It Worth Getting a CDL at 18?

Absolutely. Starting at 18 gives you a head start in a high-demand, high-paying industry. It also gives you time to build skills, gain experience, and be fully prepared to go interstate the moment you turn 21.

We’ve seen many students come through New Sound right after high school, and within three years they’re driving across the country clearing six figures every year with no debt.

What Do I Need to Start CDL School at 18?

Here’s what you need to begin:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a valid Washington driver’s license
• Obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
• Complete a registered training program (New Sound is FMCSA-approved)
• Pass a DOT physical exam and drug test

Once these are complete, you can start training right away.

CDL Training Options for Young Adults

At New Sound CDL School, we offer multiple ways to train depending on your schedule:

• Full-time training: 4 weeks for Class A, 2 weeks for Class B
• Part-time training: 6 weeks for Class A, 4 weeks for Class B
• Evening training: same timeline as part-time, but after 4pm

All of our programs include:

• Pre-trip inspection training
• Backing and road driving
• CDL exam preparation
• Real instructors with real road experience

If you’re not sure which license or schedule is best, we’re happy to walk you through it.

Can I Get Financial Help for CDL School at 18?

Yes. Many of our younger students qualify for state-sponsored job training grants that can cover most or even all of your tuition. We also offer payment plans and financing options for anyone who needs it. We can help you find out which financial assistance programs you qualify for before you enroll.

How to Get Started for a Washington State CDL

If you're 18 or older and want to get your CDL, here’s how to begin:

1. Call or message us to ask questions
2. Choose your CDL type (Class A or B)
3. Pick a training schedule that works for you
4. Apply for grants or financing
5. Start training

Starting CDL training at 18 is one of the smartest moves you can make. You’ll build valuable experience, get ahead financially, and be ready for nationwide jobs the day you turn 21.

If you’re ready to get started, or just want to learn more, reach out to New Sound CDL School today. We’ll help you take the first step toward a career or launchpad in trucking, no matter your age.