What documents you need to bring

Washington State requires you to bring specific documents when you explore for a driver's license. You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number — the state calls this the "REAL ID" package, even if you are not getting a REAL ID license.

For identity, bring a passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate. A school ID or work ID alone will not work. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and Washington address. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the Department of Licensing office. If you are 18 or older, you can explore alone.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (passport, passport card, or birth certificate), proof of residency (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number to explore.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and sign your process at the Department of Licensing office.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
  • The written test and vision test can be taken on the same day, but you must schedule the driving test separately.
  • Washington charges different fees depending on whether you want a standard license or a REAL ID license, and fees vary based on how long you want the license to last.

The written test and what it covers

Before you take the driving test, you must pass a written test at a Department of Licensing office. The test has 50 questions about Washington traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass.

The Department of Licensing publishes a free study guide called the "Washington Driver Guide" on its website. You can read it online or request a printed copy. Many people study the guide for one to two weeks before taking the test. You can take the written test as many times as you need — there is no limit on retakes, though you will pay the test fee each time.

The vision test and driving test

You will take a vision test at the same Department of Licensing office where you take your written test. The test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you cannot take the driving test that day.

The driving test is separate and must be scheduled in advance. During the test, a Department of Licensing examiner sits in your car while you drive on public roads for about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner watches how you handle turns, stops, parking, and how you respond to other traffic. You must use a car that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The car must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors.

You can take the driving test as many times as you need. If you fail, you can schedule another test, though wait times vary by location and season.

Age-specific rules for new drivers

Washington has different rules depending on your age. If you are 16 or 17, you must first get a learner's permit and hold it for at least six months before you can take the driving test. During those six months, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the car with you.

If you are 18 or older, you do not need a learner's permit. You can go straight to the written test, vision test, and driving test. However, if you are 18 to 20 years old and you pass your driving test, you will receive a license with restrictions for the first six months — you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot have passengers under 20 in the car unless a licensed adult 25 or older is also in the car.

Fees and how long your license lasts

Washington charges a fee to issue your driver's license. The amount depends on whether you want a standard license or a REAL ID license, and how long you want it to last. A standard license is cheaper but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight. A REAL ID license costs more but works for all federal purposes.

Standard licenses last either 5 years or 8 years, depending on which you choose. REAL ID licenses last 5 years or 8 years as well. Renewal fees are lower than the initial issue fee. You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Licensing office, depending on your situation.

If you already have a license from another state

If you have a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Washington, you do not need to take the written test or driving test again. You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Washington license by bringing your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to a Department of Licensing office. You will still need to pass the vision test.

If your out-of-state license has expired, the rules are stricter. You may need to take the written test and driving test again, depending on how long it has been expired. Contact your local Department of Licensing office to ask about your specific situation.

Where to explore and how to schedule your tests

You explore for your driver's license at a Department of Licensing office. Washington has offices in most towns and cities. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Department of Licensing website. Some offices are busier than others — offices in larger cities often have longer wait times.

You can walk in to take the written test and vision test on the same day, though you may wait. The driving test must be scheduled in advance, usually online through the Department of Licensing website or by calling your local office. Scheduling times vary by location — some offices have openings within a few days, while others may have a wait of several weeks during busy seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online?

No. You must take the written test in person at a Department of Licensing office. However, you can study for it online using the free Washington Driver Guide on the Department of Licensing website.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can schedule another driving test. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. You do not need to retake the written test or vision test unless your vision has changed.

Do I need to bring my own car for the driving test?

Yes. The car must be registered and insured in Washington, and it must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. You cannot use a rental car or a car belonging to the Department of Licensing.

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my permanent one?

Yes. When you pass your driving test, the Department of Licensing will give you a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is being printed and mailed to you.

What if I lose my documents before I can explore?

You can request a replacement birth certificate from the Washington Department of Health, or a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration. Both can take several weeks. If you need to drive before your documents arrive, contact your local Department of Licensing office to ask about other options.