I just got my license about 3 months ago and it wasn't all that hard. You should definitely spend some time reviewing the drivers manual for the class and endorsements you need. The manual is available in printed versions at any Washington Dept. of Licensing office or you can get the online version from their website. They even have practice tests in the manual you can take to get ready to go in and take the written. Once you pass the necessary written tests you can get your learners permit. Then the fun begins! Fortunately I have relatives that have class A licenses with no restrictions and they taught me how to drive. Once I felt comfortable enough to take the driving test, I called up the local examiner and made an appointment to take the test. I didn't do very well on the driving test mostly because the route we took is the same one I drive every day to work. When we crossed the Wynoochee river he asked me what the yellow warning sign said. I knew I was in trouble because I didn't even remember seeing a sign. Lost points on that one! I also have to admit that I still need to concentrate on my shifting (9 speed road ranger), and the fact that we were talking about all sorts of things didn't help in my driving (ground a few gears). Finally the test was over after about half an hour and I had passed!
I drive a 5 yard truck licensed for 33,000 and pull a 10 ton trailer so I went for the class A, air brake, tanker and hazmat. As long as you're under 26,000 gross you don't even need a cdl regardless of brake type. I noticed when I was looking to buy a dump truck I saw a lot of new trucks rated for 25,999 so they could skate under the cdl requirement. Personally I think anyone driving trucks much over 20,000 should have to pass some kind of skills test. Trucks this size just don't drive like a car and the test does teach you some things most drivers don't even realize. Good luck when you decide to go for your cdl. I sure like mine now that I have it!