Question 1

How long does it take to get a CDL in Washington?

Accepted Answer

Washington state requires a minimum of 160 hours of training for a Class A CDL and 80 hours for Class B. At NSTS, Class A programs run 160 hours over 4 weeks full-time. Class B is 80 hours over 3 weeks. Evening schedules are available and take approximately 6 weeks. Factor in 1-2 weeks for the CLP knowledge test before training begins.

Question 2

How much does CDL training cost at NSTS?

Accepted Answer

Class A Manual: $4,500. Class A Automatic: $4,000. Class B: $3,000. CDL Upgrade (B to A): $3,975. Government fees add roughly $317 (CLP $40, skills test $175, CDL license $102). Financial assistance through WIOA grants, Amazon Career Choice, Boeing education benefits, and carrier-sponsored programs can cover part or all of tuition.

Question 3

Do I need experience to start CDL training?

Accepted Answer

No prior commercial driving experience is needed. You need a valid Washington driver's license. NSTS programs are designed for complete beginners with a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio for personalized hands-on coaching from day one.

Question 4

What's the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

Accepted Answer

Class A lets you drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers, tankers, flatbeds) over 26,001 lbs combined weight. Class B covers single vehicles like dump trucks, buses, and box trucks. A Class A license also qualifies you for all Class B vehicles. In Washington, Class A drivers average $79,000/year vs. $42,000-$58,000 for Class B.

Question 5

Should I choose Manual or Automatic CDL training?

Accepted Answer

Manual is recommended. Testing on a manual truck means your CDL has no transmission restriction, so you can drive both manual and automatic trucks commercially. An automatic-only CDL limits your job options. The Manual program is $4,500 and Automatic is $4,000, both 160 hours.

Question 6

What does the CDL skills test involve?

Accepted Answer

Three parts: pre-trip vehicle inspection, backing maneuvers (straight-line back, offset back, alley dock or parallel park), and on-road driving test on public roads. The Washington state fee is $175 and covers up to 2 attempts.

Question 7

Will NSTS help me find a job after training?

Accepted Answer

NSTS partners directly with Swift, UPS, FedEx, Werner, J.B. Hunt, Schneider, XPO, Estes, Penske, and Covenant. Recruiters visit the school regularly and many students receive offers before graduation. 95% job placement rate. Entry-level Class A drivers in Washington start at $48,000-$58,000/year.

Question 8

Where is NSTS located?

Accepted Answer

7402 Pacific Hwy E, Tacoma, WA 98354 — right off I-5 and Highway 99 with free parking. Serving Tacoma, Seattle, Fife, Milton, Everett, and the Puget Sound area. Open Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm. Walk-in tours welcome. Call (253) 210-0505.

CDL Study Resources & Tools

CDL Study Guides & Checklists

CDL General Knowledge Study Guide

Washington CDL Manual

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Air Brakes Study Materials

Official Resources & References

Washington DOL — CDL Information

FMCSA — Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

WorkSource Washington

Bureau of Labor Statistics — Truck Drivers

Advice for New & Aspiring Drivers

Your First 90 Days as a New Driver

Understanding Hours of Service (HOS) Rules

How to Build a Strong Driving Record

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