Most commercial driver licenses (CDLs) and commercial learner permits (CLPs) with expiration dates on or after March 1, 2020 are now extended through May 31, 2021, unless renewed already.
The extension affects all CDL types and endorsements except CDLs with a hazardous materials (hazmat) endorsement. To date, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has not issued an extension for hazmat drivers.
Late fees will not be assessed during the extension period, and you will not receive a new license with a new expiration date. You can present this letter with an expired license/permit if asked by law enforcement or others who need to verify your identity.
This extension is in line with guidance from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and TSA to keep essential transportation services operational during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is in effect for a limited time. DOL has temporary rules in place making almost everyone eligible for online renewals, so act now to renew your license or permit. There is nothing to be gained by waiting.
Temporary change to CDL medical certificate rules
Gov. Jay Inslee authorized DOL to take advantage of a FMCSA waiver to some CDL medical certificate rules. This temporary change allows some commercial drivers to continue operating with an expired medical certificate.
- If your medical certificate expired on or after Dec. 1, 2020, DOL will not downgrade your CDL through May 31, 2021.
- DOL extended the deadline for intrastate CDL drivers to submit medical certificates. Through May 31, 2021, DOL will not downgrade intrastate CDL drivers who do not have a medical certificate in our system.
Print and carry this letter for documentation, if needed.
Please note: DOL is receiving a high volume of CDL medical certificates and processing may take longer than normal. If you do not have a valid medical certificate on file with DOL, please make plans to obtain and submit one as soon as possible.
You have several options that do not require visiting a driver licensing office:
- Email: CDLMED@dol.wa.gov (only for submitting CDL medical forms; questions won’t be answered)
- Online: dol.wa.gov
- Fax: 360-570-4915
- Mail: CDL Medical Unit, Department of Licensing, P.O. Box 9030, Olympia, WA 98507-9030
Questions can be emailed to CDLProgram@dol.wa.gov.
Licensing Express 