Where to go for a driver license in Bremerton
The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) office in Bremerton is located at 614 5th Street, Bremerton, WA 98337. This is the only full-service licensing office in the city where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new driver license or renew an existing one. You can walk in during business hours, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week.
The office is open Monday through Friday. Hours change seasonally and occasionally for holidays, so check the DOL website or call 360-373-6200 before you go. If you cannot visit in person, you can renew some licenses by mail or online, depending on your age and how long it has been since your last renewal.
Key Takeaways
- The Bremerton DOL office at 614 5th Street handles new licenses, renewals, and all testing in one location.
- You need a Social Security number, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) to get a new license.
- First-time driver license holders must pass a written knowledge test and a vision test at the office; the road test is scheduled separately at a testing site.
- Renewal by mail or online is available for some drivers, which avoids the office visit entirely.
- Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.
What documents you need to bring
Washington requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. For proof of identity, bring your passport, certified birth certificate, state ID, or military ID. A photocopy will not work — the document must be original or certified by the issuing agency.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. If you do not have your card, a W-2 or recent tax document works. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and current Bremerton address.
If you are renewing and your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or legal change), bring the court order or marriage certificate that documents the change. Bring your current license as well.
Steps for a new driver license
If you have never held a Washington driver license, you will complete the process in two parts: the written and vision tests at the Bremerton office, and the road test at a separate testing site.
First, go to the Bremerton DOL office with your documents. You will fill out form DL 44 (process for Driver License or Identicard). A staff member will check your documents, take your photo, and administer the vision test. Then you take the written knowledge test on a computer at the office. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 80 percent to pass.
If you pass both tests, you will receive a temporary license valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent card to arrive by mail. You then schedule your road test through the DOL. Road tests in the Bremerton area are conducted at the Bremerton testing site or nearby locations. You must pass the road test to receive your permanent license. The entire process from first visit to permanent license typically takes four to six weeks.
Renewing your license by mail or online
If your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or medical suspensions, you may renew by mail or online without visiting the office. Online renewal is available through the DOL website if your license expires more than 60 days away. You will need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Mail renewal requires form DL 44 and a check or money order. The form is available on the DOL website. Mail your completed form and payment to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks by mail. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file.
You cannot renew online or by mail if you are over 69 years old, if your license has been suspended or revoked, or if you have medical conditions that require DOL review. In those cases, you must visit the Bremerton office in person.
Cost and payment methods
A new driver license costs $72 in Washington. Renewal costs $72 for an eight-year license. The Bremerton office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order — credit cards are not accepted by mail.
If you are a senior (age 62 or older), the renewal fee is reduced. Military members on active duty may be may have access to to a fee waiver. Ask the staff at the office if you think you may have access to for a reduced rate.
What to expect during your visit
Arrive with all your documents in hand. The office does not hold documents or allow you to come back later with missing papers. If you are missing even one required document, you will not be able to complete your license that day.
Wait times are longest on Fridays and mid-month. Early morning visits (first hour after opening) and Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons tend to be quieter. The office does not take reservations, so you will be served in the order you arrive. Bring a book or phone charger if you arrive during a busy time.
The vision test checks your eyesight at a standard distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you will be referred to an eye care professional and cannot receive your license until you pass a retest or provide a corrective lens prescription.
Road test scheduling and requirements
After you pass the written and vision tests at the Bremerton office, you will receive information on how to schedule your road test. You can schedule online through the DOL website or by phone. Road tests are conducted at the Bremerton testing site and a few other locations in Kitsap County.
For your road test, bring your temporary license, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. Bring someone with a valid license if required by the examiner (rules vary). The test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills, following traffic laws, and vehicle control. You must pass to receive your permanent license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?
No. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must explore for a new license as if you have never held one. You will need to retake the written and vision tests and pass the road test. Bring all required documents to the Bremerton office to start the process.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts. You pay the full license fee each time you test. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the driver manual, which is free on the DOL website.
Do I need an appointment at the Bremerton office?
No. The Bremerton DOL office operates on a walk-in basis. You do not need to call ahead or reserve a time. Arrive during business hours with your documents and you will be served in order. Check the DOL website for current hours before you go.
What happens if I move out of Bremerton after I get my license?
Your Washington license remains valid even if you move to another state or country. If you move to another Washington city, you do not need to update your address until your license expires and you renew. You can update your address online through the DOL website without visiting an office.
Can I get a Real ID at the Bremerton office?
Yes. A Real ID is a federal-compliant driver license that can be used for domestic air travel and federal building access. The Bremerton office issues Real IDs. You need the same documents as a regular license, plus proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers). Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses.