Where to go for your driver's license in Kennewick

The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) office in Kennewick handles all driver's license services for the area. The office is located at 7920 W. Clearwater Avenue, Kennewick, WA 99336. You can visit in person during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally — call ahead to confirm before you go.

You can also handle some driver's license tasks online through the Washington DOL website, including renewing a license that is not yet expired and changing your address. However, if you need to take a written test, vision test, or photo, you must visit the office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The Kennewick DOL office is at 7920 W. Clearwater Avenue and is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours.
  • You will need to bring a valid ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to get a new license.
  • A standard Washington driver's license costs $72 and is valid for eight years, though the fee may be different if you are renewing early or getting a replacement.
  • If you are under 18, you must complete a driver's education course and hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test.
  • You can renew your license online if it has not yet expired, which saves you a trip to the office.

What documents you need to bring

Washington requires you to bring specific documents when you visit the DOL office. You will need one form of valid identification — a passport, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license all work. You also need proof that you live in Washington, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original documents, not copies.

You must also provide your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation of your ITIN. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Getting a new license versus renewing

If you have never had a Washington driver's license, you are getting a new one. You will need to pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test. The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Washington Driver Guide, which is available free on the DOL website.

If your Washington license has expired or is about to expire, you are renewing. A renewal is simpler — you do not retake the written or driving tests unless the DOL has reason to require it. If your license expired more than five years ago, you may need to retake the written test. If you renew online, you skip the office visit entirely, though you will need to renew in person if you want to change your photo or address.

Costs and how long it takes

A standard eight-year Washington driver's license costs $72. A four-year license costs $48 if you prefer to renew more often. A replacement license — if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged — costs $20. These fees are current but may change, so confirm the amount when you call or visit.

If you visit the office in person, you usually receive your license the same day or within a few days. If you renew online, the license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. If you need your license urgently and cannot wait for mail delivery, ask the office whether they offer a temporary license or expedited service when you visit.

If you are under 18

Washington requires anyone under 18 to complete a driver's education course before they can get a license. The course covers classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. After you finish the course, you receive a certificate of completion, which you bring to the DOL office.

You also must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you take the driving test. During that time, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the car. Once six months have passed, you can schedule your driving test at the Kennewick office. The test covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe decision-making on the road.

Renewing online or by mail

If your Washington driver's license has not yet expired, you can renew it online through the DOL website without visiting the office. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs the same as renewing in person. Your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need to change your photo, if you want to update your address, or if you have certain medical conditions that require DOL review. In those cases, you must visit the Kennewick office in person. You can also renew by mail by downloading the form from the DOL website, filling it out, and mailing it with a check or money order.

What to do if your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen, visit the Kennewick DOL office and request a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency, just as you would for a renewal. A replacement license costs $20 and you receive it the same day or within a few days. If you believe your license was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you may also want to contact the three major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file.

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, ask the office whether they can issue a temporary license on the spot. Some offices do this at no extra charge, though availability varies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?

Yes, but if it expired more than five years ago, you will need to retake the written test and may need to retake the vision and driving tests. If it expired less than five years ago, you can usually renew without retesting. Call the Kennewick office to confirm what you will need to bring.

What if I moved to Kennewick from another state?

You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Washington license at the Kennewick DOL office. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of residency in Washington, and your ID. You do not need to retake the written or driving test — your out-of-state license counts as proof you passed those tests. You will need a new photo and pay the license fee.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Kennewick DOL office?

Appointments are not always required, but calling ahead to check wait times is a good idea. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others operate by appointment only. The Kennewick office phone number is available on the Washington DOL website.

What if I fail the written or driving test?

You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no extra fee to retake a test. Most people are allowed to retake a failed test within a few days, though you may need to wait a short time between attempts.

Can I get a Real ID at the Kennewick office?

Yes. A Real ID is a driver's license that meets federal security standards and can be used for air travel and entry to federal buildings. It costs the same as a standard license and requires the same documents, plus proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency. Ask for a Real ID when you visit the office.