Where to go for your driver's license in Bremerton

The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) office in Bremerton handles all driver's license services — issuing new licenses, renewals, replacements, and address changes. The office is located at 614 5th Street, Bremerton, WA 98337. You can reach them by phone at (360) 373-6000 to confirm hours or ask about wait times before you go.

You do not need an appointment for most transactions, but the office operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits than late afternoon or Friday. The office is closed on state holidays and Sundays.

Key Takeaways

  • The Washington State Department of Licensing office at 614 5th Street in Bremerton is the only place to get or renew a driver's license in the city.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to explore.
  • A new license takes about 10 business days to arrive by mail; a replacement for a lost or damaged license is faster.
  • Renewals can be done by mail or online if your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations, so you may not need to visit in person.

Documents you need to bring

Bring proof of identity — a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. If you are explore for your first Washington license, bring your original or certified birth certificate. If you are renewing or replacing, a current or recently expired Washington license works.

You also need proof of residency — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Bremerton address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency in Washington.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. You will provide this verbally or on the process form; you do not need to bring a card. If you do not have either, tell the staff member when you arrive — they can explain alternative verification methods.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. A DOL staff member will review your documents, ask you to sign the process, and take your photograph. The photo is taken at the office — you do not bring one. You will also take a vision test at the office.

If you are explore for your first license or your license has been expired for more than five years, you will take a written knowledge test and a driving test. The written test covers Washington traffic laws and road signs. The driving test happens in your own vehicle or a DOL test vehicle, depending on the office's procedures. Ask the staff member which applies when you arrive.

You will pay the fee at the counter. A standard five-year license costs $72 as of 2024, though fees can change. Ask the staff member for the current fee when you check in. Payment is cash, check, or card.

How long it takes to get your license

If you pass all tests and your documents are in order, your license is issued the same day as a temporary paper license. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and remains valid for 30 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed.

Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 10 business days in most cases. If you do not receive it within two weeks, call the Bremerton office to report it. Do not assume it is lost — mail delays happen, especially during high-volume periods.

Renewing by mail or online instead

If your Washington license is not expired and you have not had a suspended license, failed a drug or alcohol test, or had certain traffic violations, you can renew by mail or online without visiting the office. You can renew online through the Washington State DOL website — search for "Washington State driver's license renewal" to find the portal.

To renew by mail, request a renewal form from the Bremerton office or read it from the DOL website. Mail the completed form, your current license, and the fee to the address provided on the form. Processing takes about two weeks from the date the office receives your envelope.

Online renewal is faster — you receive your temporary license when ready and your permanent license within 10 business days. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged

Visit the Bremerton office in person to report a lost or stolen license and request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and proof of residency, just as you would for a renewal. You do not need to retake the written or driving test for a replacement.

A replacement license costs the same as a renewal. You receive a temporary paper license the same day and your permanent license by mail within 10 business days. If your license was stolen, you may want to ask the staff member whether you should file a police report — some people do this for identity protection, though it is not required by the DOL.

Address changes and other updates

If you move within Washington and your license is still valid, you can update your address by mail, online, or in person at the Bremerton office. An address change by mail or online is free and takes about two weeks. In person is when ready — you receive an updated license the same day.

Other changes — such as correcting your name, updating your gender marker, or changing your license class — require an in-person visit. Bring the same documents you would for a renewal, plus any court documents or vital records that support the change you are requesting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if it has already expired?

No. If your license is expired, you must renew in person at the Bremerton office. You will need to retake the vision test and may need to retake the written and driving tests depending on how long it has been expired. Bring all required documents.

What if I fail the written or driving test?

You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake a test. Ask the staff member for the next available time slot when you finish the first attempt.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are accepted at the Bremerton office. No appointment is needed for most services. However, you can call ahead at (360) 373-6000 to ask about current wait times, which helps you plan when to visit.

What if I do not have proof of residency in my name?

Bring whatever residency documents you have and explain your situation to the staff member. They may accept a document in a spouse's or family member's name if you live at the same address, or they can suggest alternatives. Call the office before you visit to ask what documents might work in your specific case.

Can I get a Real ID at the Bremerton office?

Yes. A Real ID is a federal-compliant license that meets airport security requirements. It costs the same as a standard license and requires the same documents, plus proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Ask the staff member about Real ID when you arrive, and bring your passport or naturalization papers if you have them.