Where to go for your driver's license in Spokane

The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) handles all driver's licenses in Spokane. You can visit their main office at 1313 W. Riverside Avenue in downtown Spokane, or use one of their smaller service locations around the county. The main office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and handles both new licenses and renewals without an appointment.

Before you go, check the DOL website or call 509-329-6500 to confirm current hours, since they sometimes adjust for holidays or staffing. Bring all required documents with you — going back a second time costs you time and gas money.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington's Department of Licensing office in downtown Spokane is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and does not require an appointment for driver's licenses.
  • You will need proof of identity, 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; a Real ID license costs $82 and is required for federal buildings and flights after May 2025.
  • Renewals by mail are available if your license is not suspended and you have not had a name change, but you must be at least 69 years old or have a medical condition.
  • The entire process at the office usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and you receive your temporary license on the spot.

Documents you need to bring

Washington requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN. For identity, bring your passport, birth certificate, or a previous Washington ID. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of documents like a school ID, employee badge, or tribal ID — the DOL website lists all accepted combinations.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Spokane address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you have just moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord works. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS.

The difference between a standard license and Real ID

Washington offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID. The standard license costs $72 and works for driving and state ID purposes. A Real ID costs $82 and has a gold star in the upper right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID or a passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

If you are not sure whether you need Real ID now, a standard license is fine for driving. You can always upgrade to Real ID later by returning to the DOL office with your current license and paying the difference. Many people get Real ID at their first renewal to avoid the trip back.

Getting a new license versus renewing

A new license is what you need if you have never had a Washington license or if your license has been expired for more than five years. You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a photo. The written test covers road signs, right-of-way, and safe driving — you can study the official Washington Driver Guide on the DOL website before you go.

A renewal is what you do if your current license is still valid or expired less than five years ago. Renewals do not require a test or a new photo (unless your license is more than 20 years old). If you are renewing and your address, name, or other information has changed, tell the staff when you arrive and they will update your record.

Renewing by mail if you cannot visit the office

Washington allows mail renewals for people who are 69 or older, or who have a medical condition that prevents them from visiting an office. You cannot renew by mail if your license is suspended, if you have had a name change, or if you are getting a Real ID for the first time. To renew by mail, contact the DOL at 509-329-6500 or visit their website to request the renewal form.

Mail renewals take two to three weeks to arrive. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you do not lose your ability to drive during the wait. If you need your license sooner, you must visit the office in person.

What happens after you finish at the DOL

When you complete your visit, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license arrives by mail in seven to ten business days. Keep the temporary license with you while you drive — it is your proof of a valid license until the permanent one arrives.

If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, call the DOL at 509-329-6500. Occasionally mail gets delayed, and they can check the status or reissue your license. Do not assume it is lost — the DOL tracks every license issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

Washington does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at a DOL office, by mail if you meet the age or medical requirements, or through a third-party service like an AAA office if you are a member. The in-person visit at the main Spokane office takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Report the loss to the Spokane Police Department or the sheriff's office, then visit the DOL office with your ID documents. A replacement license costs $20 and you receive a temporary license on the spot. The permanent replacement arrives by mail in seven to ten business days.

Do I need an appointment?

No. The main DOL office in Spokane does not require appointments for driver's licenses. Walk-in service is available during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Arrive early if you can — the office is busiest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring proof of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will need to visit the office in person; mail renewal is not available for name changes. The fee is the same as a standard renewal, and you receive a temporary license when ready.

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

Yes. Bring your ITIN letter from the IRS instead of a Social Security card. The process is the same, and you pay the same fee. If you do not have an ITIN, contact the IRS before visiting the DOL.