What you need to get a driver's license in Washington

Washington issues driver's licenses through the Department of Licensing (DOL). To get one, you need to visit a DOL office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The whole process usually takes a few weeks from your first visit to receiving your card in the mail.

You cannot complete the entire process online or by mail. You must show up to an office with your documents, take the tests there, and have your photo taken. Washington does not issue licenses to people without a valid Social Security number, though there are limited exceptions for certain visa holders.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Licensing office in person to take the knowledge and driving tests and have your photo taken.
  • Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a current passport or state ID, proof of your Washington address, and your Social Security card or a document showing your number.
  • The knowledge test covers traffic laws and safe driving; you can study using the free online manual at dol.wa.gov before you go.
  • The driving test happens on the same day as your knowledge test if you pass, and you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in working condition.
  • Your temporary license is valid when ready after you pass both tests, and your permanent card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.

Documents you must bring to the DOL office

Washington requires specific documents to prove who you are, where you live, and your legal right to work. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate — a photocopy does not count. You also need one current photo ID, such as a valid passport, a state ID card, a military ID, or a tribal ID.

For proof of your Washington address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. Finally, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your number, such as a W-2 form or tax return.

If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to show proof of legal presence. This can be your passport, a permanent resident card, an employment authorization document, or a visa. The DOL website lists all accepted documents for each category.

How the knowledge test works

The knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions about Washington traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, Russian, and others — ask at the office which languages are available at your location.

You can study for free using the Washington Driver Guide, available as a PDF on the DOL website at dol.wa.gov. The guide covers everything on the test. Many people study it for a few days before their appointment and pass on the first try. If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment.

How the driving test works

If you pass the knowledge test, you take the driving test the same day. You must bring a vehicle that is currently registered in Washington, has valid insurance, and is in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn before you drive.

The test lasts about 30 minutes and includes driving on city streets and highways, parking, turning, and stopping. The examiner watches how you handle the vehicle and whether you follow traffic laws. You must pass this test to receive your license. If you do not pass, you can retake it, but you will need to schedule a new appointment — you cannot take it again the same day.

Finding a DOL office and scheduling your appointment

Washington has DOL offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DOL website at dol.wa.gov. Some offices are busier than others; rural offices often have shorter wait times than offices in Seattle, Tacoma, or Spokane.

You can schedule an appointment online through the DOL website, which usually gets you in faster than walking in without one. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours. During busy times, some offices stop accepting walk-ins by mid-afternoon. Scheduling ahead is the most reliable way to know when you will be seen.

What happens after you pass both tests

Once you pass the knowledge test and the driving test, the examiner will take your photo and issue you a temporary license on the spot. This temporary license is valid when ready and works just like a permanent license — you can drive right away. Your permanent card is printed and mailed to your address within two to three weeks.

If your address changes before your card arrives, you can update it on the DOL website or at any DOL office. Your permanent license is valid for eight years if you are under 65, and four years if you are 65 or older. You will receive a renewal notice by mail before it expires.

Renewing or replacing your license

If your license is expiring, you can renew it online at dol.wa.gov without visiting an office, as long as your address has not changed and your license is not suspended. You pay the renewal fee online and receive your new card by mail.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must visit a DOL office to get a replacement. Bring your documents again and pay a replacement fee. You will receive a new temporary license when ready and your permanent card within two to three weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Washington generally requires a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. However, certain visa holders may be able to get a license without one. Contact your local DOL office or check the DOL website to see if you may have access to for an exception.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test, but you must schedule a new appointment — you cannot take it again the same day. Your temporary knowledge test pass is valid for a limited time, so schedule your next attempt soon. The DOL website shows how long your knowledge test pass remains valid.

Do I need to take the tests again if I move to Washington from another state?

Yes. Washington requires you to pass both the knowledge test and the driving test, even if you have a valid license from another state. You cannot straightforward transfer your out-of-state license. Bring your current license along with the other required documents when you visit the DOL office.

How much does a Washington driver's license cost?

The fee varies depending on how long your license is valid. An eight-year license costs less per year than a four-year license. Check the DOL website for the current fee, as it changes periodically. You pay the fee at the DOL office when you take your tests.

Can I take the knowledge test online?

No. You must take both the knowledge test and the driving test in person at a DOL office. However, you can study the test material online using the free Washington Driver Guide before you go.