Where to get your Redmond driver license

Redmond does not have its own driver licensing office. Washington State issues all driver licenses through the Department of Licensing (DOL), and the nearest office to Redmond is in Bellevue, located at 1125 104th Avenue NE. You can also visit the Kirkland office at 8320 132nd Avenue NE, or the Olympia headquarters at 1125 Carter Avenue SW if those are more convenient.

You can complete some transactions online through the DOL website without visiting an office in person — renewing an expiring license, changing your address, or ordering a replacement card. For a new license or a test, you must go to a physical office.

The Bellevue office is typically the closest option for Redmond residents and handles all standard license services. Hours vary by location, so check the DOL website for current hours before you go. Appointments are available but not required; walk-ins are accepted during business hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington State's Department of Licensing issues all driver licenses; Redmond has no local office.
  • The Bellevue DOL office at 1125 104th Avenue NE is the nearest location to Redmond for in-person services.
  • You can renew, change your address, or order a replacement online without visiting an office.
  • New licenses and tests require an in-person visit to a DOL office with proof of identity and residency.
  • Appointments are optional; you can walk in during business hours, though wait times vary.

Documents you need for a new Washington driver license

Washington requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Washington residency. Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, a state ID card, a military ID, or a tribal ID. You cannot use a school ID or a work badge alone.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before your DOL visit.

Proof of residency can be a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document with your current Washington address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A PO box does not count as proof of residency.

Bring the originals of these documents, not copies. The DOL staff will examine them and return them to you.

The written test and driving test

Washington requires a written knowledge test covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass. You can study using the official Washington Driver Guide, available free on the DOL website in English and other languages.

If you pass the written test, you can schedule a driving test at the same office or a different one. The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, turning, stopping, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors.

You can take the written test and driving test on the same day if you pass the written portion and an examiner is available. Many people schedule the driving test for a later date to have time to practice.

Fees and payment methods

A new Washington driver license costs $72 and is valid for eight years. The fee covers the license card itself and the written and driving tests. Payment methods accepted at DOL offices include cash, debit card, and credit card. Personal checks are not accepted.

If you renew online, the cost is $72 for an eight-year license. If you renew in person at an office, the cost is the same. Replacement cards for a lost or damaged license cost $20.

How long the process takes

The written test is scored when ready, and you will know if you passed before you leave the office. If you pass and take the driving test the same day, you will know the result that day as well. If you schedule the driving test for another date, you can book it at the office or online.

After you pass both tests, your license is issued on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to your address. The plastic card typically arrives within two to three weeks.

Wait times at the office vary. The Bellevue location can have waits of 30 minutes to over an hour during peak times, usually mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays. Arriving early in the morning or on a Tuesday or Wednesday often means shorter waits.

Renewing your license online or in person

If your Washington license is expiring and you have not had any violations or medical suspensions, you can renew online through the DOL website. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $72. Your new license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks.

You can also renew in person at any DOL office. In-person renewal takes longer but is useful if you want to update your photo or address at the same time. Bring your current license and proof of residency if you are changing your address.

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must explore for a new license and take the written and driving tests again.

Changing your address or name

You can change your address online through the DOL website without visiting an office. The change takes effect when ready, and you do not need to order a new card unless you want to. If you want a new card with your updated address, you can order one for $20.

To change your name on your license, you must visit a DOL office in person and bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the name change. The office will issue a new license with your updated name at no additional cost if your license is not expiring soon. If it is expiring within six months, you can renew and update your name at the same time for the standard renewal fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Washington offers the written test in Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, Russian, and several other languages. Tell the DOL staff which language you need when you arrive, and they will provide the test in that language. The Driver Guide is also available in multiple languages on the DOL website.

What if I fail the written test or driving test?

You can retake the written test the same day or schedule it for another visit. There is no waiting period between attempts. You must pay the full $72 fee each time you take a test. For the driving test, you can schedule a retest at the office or online, usually within a few days.

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

Appointments are not required, but you can book one online to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are welcome during business hours. If you book an appointment, you will be seen within 15 minutes of your scheduled time. Without an appointment, wait times depend on how busy the office is that day.

Can I use my out-of-state license while I wait for my Washington license?

Yes. Your out-of-state license remains valid until it expires. You can drive legally in Washington with your out-of-state license while your new Washington license is being processed. Once your Washington license arrives, you should carry it instead of your old license.

What happens if I move out of Washington after getting my license?

Your Washington license remains valid until it expires, even if you move to another state. You do not have to surrender it. However, if you move permanently to another state, you should obtain a license from that state within the timeframe required by that state's law, usually 30 to 60 days after moving.