Washington State
House of Representatives
BILL
ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 1267


This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Modifying commercial driver's license requirements.

Sponsors: Representatives Wallace, Upthegrove, Lovick, Hankins and Dickerson; by request of Department of Licensing.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Allows the Department of Licensing to set the fees by rule for knowledge examinations and skills examinations for commercial motor vehicle licenses.
  • Requires applicants for commercial vehicle licenses to prove Washington residence and pass an approved course of instruction.
  • Allows the Department of Licensing to waive the requirement of passing an approved course of instruction if the applicant has a valid license from another state.

Hearing Date: 2/15/07

Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).

Background:

The operation of commercial motor vehicles is regulated under both state and federal law. In order to operate a commercial motor vehicle in Washington, a person generally must hold a commercial driver's license with the applicable endorsements for the vehicle they are driving.

However, this requirement does not apply to the following persons:

In order to receive a commercial driver's license from the state of Washington, an applicant must be a resident of the state and pass knowledge and skills test that complies with minimum federal standards.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Licensing (DOL) is given the authority to set by rule the fees for knowledge examinations and skills examinations for commercial motor vehicle licenses.

A person seeking a commercial driver's license must present satisfactory evidence to the DOL that they are a Washington resident and have successfully completed a course of instruction in the operation of a commercial motor vehicle that has been approved by the director of the DOL.

The DOL may waive the requirement for instruction in the operation of a commercial motor vehicle for an applicant that has been issued a valid commercial driver's license in another state and is transferring to Washington.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: Section (1) takes effect July 1, 2007. Section (2) takes effect January 15, 2008.