CDL training out of state (MT) / Transfer CDL to home state (WA)

I've never heard of that. Sometimes you have to get the permit before leaving for out-of-state training.
I'd ask Wilson about that I think the WA DOL gave you wrong information.

 

If it were me, I'd go on with Wilson then deal with all that later.

 

No need to get a Montana CLP, your CLP is valid nation wide and your test results will be honored by your home state. Federal rules require a state that has issued a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) to an individual must accept the results of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) skills test administered to the applicant by any other State.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-...ubchapter-B/part-383/subpart-E/section-383.79

AAMVA - Combined ROOSTR and CSTIMS Map

Do not get a Montana CLP unless you want to switch your residency to the state, You must be a Montana resident to get a CLP in Montana. This will also mean you are subject to the states personal income tax as your home state doesn't have an income tax.

You get the CLP in the state you are a resident in and can train and test in any other state by law.

 

That was the way it was back then.

The Real ID act and the above law that was passed in 2018 changed things. States are no longer allowed to issue drivers licenses to non-residents and states have to accept CDL training and testing from other states now.

 

So why bother .
If you move to those states
Just keep your cdl in whatever state issued it .

you have to go back every few years and renew it , no big deal.