Trucking in Washington
Washington has a uniform 60 mph maximum speed limit for all trucks over 10,000 lbs — statewide, no exceptions. It is one of the lowest truck speed limits in the West, and it catches every out-of-state driver. There is no rural exception, no highway-by-highway variance. If you weigh over 10,000 lbs and you are in Washington, your speed limit is 60.
Snoqualmie Pass on I-90 is the other defining feature. The chain zone stretches 69 miles from North Bend at milepost 32 to Ellensburg at milepost 101, with $500 fines for non-compliance — one of the highest chain penalties in the region. Studded tires do not count as chains. Oversize loads are prohibited during chain conditions. Washington State Patrol actively checks eastbound vehicles at the North Bend base.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance — the jointly operated ports of Seattle and Tacoma — is launching its Clean Truck Program in January 2026. All trucks serving international and domestic terminals will need a registered RFID tag and a 2007 or newer engine. A $6.2 million zero-emission drayage incentive program is backing the transition. Carriers serving these ports should register before the deadline.
Washington splits regulatory authority four ways: WSDOT handles permits and road conditions, WSP handles enforcement and inspections, UTC handles intrastate for-hire authority and insurance filing, and DOL handles vehicle registration and CDL. This four-agency structure confuses every new carrier, but understanding who does what prevents wasted time and missed filings. The state’s $10,000 property damage minimum is the lowest among western states — a number so low it would not cover a scratch on a modern truck. UTC requires $750,000 CSL for intrastate carriers over 10,000 lbs, and we recommend $1M given Puget Sound congestion and Snoqualmie Pass severity.
Starting a Trucking Company in Washington?
If you’re launching a new carrier in Washington, our free guide walks you through every step from business formation to passing your first FMCSA safety audit. Start with the decision guide or jump to insurance costs for new authorities.
Major Trucking Corridors in Washington
Washington Trucking Insurance Requirements
State Minimums (Intrastate)
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $25,000 |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $50,000 |
| Property Damage | $10,000 |
Federal Minimum (Interstate)
$750,000
Required for interstate for-hire carriers
RMS Recommendation: We recommend $1,000,000 CSL for most carriers. Most brokers and shippers require $1M, and it protects your personal assets.
Coverage Types for Washington Truckers
Major Freight Hubs in Washington
Northwest Seaport Alliance (Seattle/Tacoma)
Jointly operated ports handling containerized cargo. Clean Truck Program registration required starting January 2026.
Spokane
Eastern Washington distribution hub on I-90. Agricultural freight and regional distribution.
Tri-Cities
I-82 corridor connecting I-90 to I-84. Agricultural freight hub for eastern Washington and the Columbia Basin.
Washington Trucking Regulations
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Speed Limit | 60 mph maximum statewide for ALL vehicles over 10,000 lbs GVW. No rural exceptions. |
| Chain Law | 69-mile chain zone on Snoqualmie Pass (I-90 MP 32 to MP 101). $500 fine for non-compliance. Studded tires do not count. |
| Lane Restrictions | Trucks over 10,000 lbs banned from left lane on 3+ lane highways in King and Snohomish counties and on I-90 in Spokane. |
| Clean Truck Program | NWSA requires RFID tag and 2007+ engine for all trucks serving port terminals starting January 2026. |
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Washington Trucking Insurance FAQ
What is Washington's truck speed limit?
60 mph maximum statewide for all vehicles over 10,000 lbs GVW. No rural exceptions. This is one of the lowest truck speed limits in the West and catches every out-of-state driver.
How much is the chain law fine in Washington?
$500. One of the highest in the West. Chains are required on Snoqualmie Pass (69 miles, MP 32 to MP 101) and other mountain passes when posted. Studded tires do NOT count as chains.
What is the NWSA Clean Truck Program?
Starting January 2026, all trucks serving Seattle and Tacoma port terminals need a registered RFID tag and a 2007 or newer engine (or equivalent emission control). Register before serving any NWSA terminal.
What insurance do I need for Washington?
Interstate carriers need $750,000 federal minimum (we recommend $1M). Intrastate UTC-regulated carriers need $300,000 CSL under 10,000 lbs or $750,000 CSL over 10,000 lbs. Both UTC and USDOT numbers must be displayed on both sides of the vehicle.
Why are there four agencies for trucking in Washington?
WSDOT handles permits and road conditions. WSP handles enforcement and inspections. UTC handles intrastate for-hire authority and insurance filing. DOL handles vehicle registration and CDL. You may need to interact with all four depending on your operation.
Can trucks use I-405 Express Lanes?
No. Vehicles over 10,000 lbs are NOT permitted on I-405 Express Toll Lanes or SR-167 HOT Lanes. Use general purpose lanes. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge and SR-520 Bridge do allow commercial vehicles.
Is there a truck parking problem in Washington?
Severe. 75% of drivers report trouble finding safe parking at least once per week. Only about 530 rest area spaces statewide. WSDOT is expanding at 24 rest areas and 18 inspection sites.