Driver's License Offices in Spokane

Spokane has two Department of Licensing (DOL) offices where you can get a driver's license. The main office is at 1818 West Broadway Avenue in downtown Spokane, and a second location is at 6410 North Division Street on the north side of the city. Both offices handle the same services: written tests, driving tests, license renewals, and replacements.

The Broadway location tends to be busier during peak hours, particularly mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays. The Division Street office often has shorter wait times, especially if you visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Neither location requires you to make an appointment in advance, though you will need to bring the correct documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Spokane's two DOL offices are at 1818 West Broadway Avenue and 6410 North Division Street, and both offer the same services without requiring an appointment.
  • You must bring a Social Security card, proof of residency, and proof of identity before you arrive at either location.
  • The Division Street office typically has shorter waits than the Broadway location during standard business hours.
  • Written tests and driving tests happen at the same location, though you may need to schedule your driving test separately after passing the written exam.
  • Office hours vary slightly between locations, so check the DOL website or call ahead to confirm hours before you go.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Washington State requires three categories of documents before you can get a driver's license. First, you need proof of your Social Security number — your actual Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form all work. Second, you need proof of identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID. Third, you need proof of your current Washington address, which can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form at the office. If you are renewing a license rather than getting one for the first time, bring your current or expired license along with these documents. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

The Written Test and Driving Test Process

When you arrive at either Spokane office, you will first take the written test on a computer. The test covers Washington traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 30 minutes to complete it, and you need to answer at least 40 out of 50 questions correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no additional cost.

After you pass the written test, you will schedule your driving test. Some people can take the driving test the same day if an examiner is available, but most are scheduled for a later appointment. You will drive your own vehicle (or a vehicle registered to someone you know) with an examiner in the passenger seat. The test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe decision-making on the road.

Hours and Wait Times

Both Spokane offices are open Monday through Friday. The Broadway location is typically open from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Division Street location keeps similar hours, though these can shift seasonally. Both offices close for state holidays. Saturday and Sunday hours are not available at either location.

Wait times depend on the time of day and the day of the week. Mondays and Fridays are usually busier than mid-week days. If you arrive right when the office opens at 8:15 a.m., you will typically wait 15 to 30 minutes. Mid-day waits can stretch to an hour or longer, especially at the Broadway location. The Division Street office is generally less crowded, so consider visiting there if you have the option.

Fees and Payment Methods

A standard five-year driver's license costs $72 in Washington State. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more and requires additional testing. If you are renewing rather than getting a new license, the cost is the same. The offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards — they do not accept checks.

If you fail the written test and need to retake it, there is no additional fee for the retest. If you fail the driving test, you will need to pay the full license fee again when you retake it, which typically costs another $72. Some people choose to wait a few weeks between attempts to study more, which is allowed.

What Happens After You Pass

Once you pass both the written and driving tests, the examiner will take your photo and process your new license at the office. Your temporary license is printed on paper and is valid when ready for driving. Your permanent plastic license card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. The address on your license will be the Washington address you provided at the office.

Your new license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can drive legally with your temporary paper license while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. If you move before the plastic card arrives, you can update your address online through the DOL website or at your next office visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The DOL offers the written test in multiple languages including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. Tell the staff member at the front desk which language you need before you start the test. You may be asked to bring an interpreter for the driving test portion, depending on the examiner's availability.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. Each attempt costs the full $72 license fee. Most people wait at least a week between attempts to practice more. You can schedule your next test at the office right after you fail, or you can call or visit the website to schedule it later.

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

Both Spokane offices accept walk-ins without an appointment. However, you will wait in line based on when you arrive. Arriving early in the morning typically means a shorter wait. If you prefer to know your wait time in advance, you can call the office you plan to visit and ask how busy they are.

What if I lose my license before it arrives in the mail?

You can request a replacement at either Spokane office. Bring your temporary paper license and the documents listed above. A replacement license costs $72 and takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail, just like a new license.

Can I renew my license online instead of going to an office?

Online renewal is available in Washington, but only if your license is not expired and you have not had any changes to your address or name. If either of those applies, you must visit an office in person. You can check the DOL website to see if you are may be able to access for online renewal before you go.