What you need to do to get a Washington driver's license

To get a driver's license in Washington, you will need to pass a written knowledge test, a driving test, and a vision screening. You'll also need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The process takes place at a Department of Licensing office, and you can complete it in one visit if you're ready, though most people spread it across two trips — one to take the written test and one to take the driving test after practicing.

Washington issues licenses to people age 16 and older. If you're under 18, the rules are stricter: you'll need to hold a learner's permit for at least six months, practice with a licensed adult, and follow restrictions on when and where you can drive. If you're 18 or older, you can move straight to the full license without a permit stage.

Key Takeaways

  • You need proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number before you visit a Department of Licensing office.
  • The written test covers traffic laws and safe driving practices; you can study using the Washington Driver Guide, available free on the Department of Licensing website.
  • You must pass a vision screening at the office, and if your vision doesn't meet the standard, you may need glasses or contacts to pass.
  • The driving test happens on a closed course or quiet streets and lasts about 20 minutes; you bring your own vehicle or use one provided by the office.
  • If you're under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months and log supervised driving hours before you can take the driving test.

Documents you need to bring to the Department of Licensing

Bring one document that proves your identity. A U.S. passport, birth certificate, or state ID card all work. If you're using a birth certificate, bring a second form of ID as well — a school ID, employee badge, or tribal ID. The document needs to show your name and date of birth.

Bring one document that proves you live in Washington. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you've just moved and don't have a bill yet, a signed lease is usually accepted.

Write down your Social Security number. You don't need to bring a card, but you do need to know the number. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you're not may be able to access for one.

Bring your current driver's license or learner's permit if you have one. If you're renewing or replacing a license, this speeds up the process. If you're getting your first license, you don't need this.

Passing the written knowledge test

The written test has 35 questions about Washington traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You need to answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. The test is multiple choice, and you take it on a computer at the Department of Licensing office.

Study using the Washington Driver Guide, which is free and available on the Department of Licensing website. The guide covers everything the test asks about: right-of-way rules, speed limits, how to handle different road conditions, what different signs mean, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. Read through the guide once, then focus on the sections you find confusing.

You can retake the test if you don't pass the first time. There's usually a waiting period of a few days before you can try again, and you'll pay the test fee each time. Most people pass on the first or second attempt if they've studied the guide.

Passing the vision screening and driving test

At your Department of Licensing appointment, you'll have your vision checked. You need to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If your vision doesn't meet the standard even with correction, you won't be able to get a license until it improves.

The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and responding to road situations. You'll drive on quiet streets or a closed course, depending on which office you visit. The examiner watches how you handle turns, stops, parking, and how you respond to traffic signs and other vehicles.

You can bring your own vehicle or use one provided by the Department of Licensing office. If you bring your own, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, and wipers before you start.

You need to pass the driving test to get your license. If you don't pass, you can retake it after a waiting period. Most offices let you schedule another test within a few days or weeks.

If you're under 18: the learner's permit stage

If you're under 18, you must get a learner's permit first and hold it for at least six months before you can take the driving test. To get a learner's permit, you pass the written knowledge test and vision screening, but you don't take the driving test yet.

While you have a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult age 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. You also cannot drive on highways until you've had your permit for at least one year.

Log your supervised driving hours. Washington requires at least 50 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. Keep a record of your practice sessions — the date, time, and location. When you're ready to take the driving test, bring this log with you.

Fees and how long the process takes

The written test costs around $20 to $30, and the driving test costs around $30 to $40. A new driver's license costs around $70 to $80. Prices vary slightly depending on which Department of Licensing office you visit and whether you're getting your first license or renewing one. Check the Department of Licensing website for the exact fee at your local office.

The written test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The vision screening takes a few minutes. The driving test takes about 20 minutes. The whole appointment, including waiting time, usually takes 30 minutes to an hour if you're only taking one test.

If you're under 18 and need to hold a learner's permit for six months before taking the driving test, the total timeline is at least six months plus the time it takes to schedule and pass the driving test. If you're 18 or older, you can complete both tests in two separate visits over a few weeks.

Finding a Department of Licensing office and scheduling an appointment

Washington has Department of Licensing offices in most counties. Search for "Department of Licensing office near me" on the Washington State Department of Licensing website to find the office closest to you. The website lists the address, phone number, and hours for each office.

You can schedule an appointment online through the Department of Licensing website, or call your local office to book a time. Online scheduling is usually faster and shows you available times. Some offices accept walk-ins, but appointments are recommended because wait times can be long.

Bring all your documents to your appointment. If you're missing anything, the office will turn you away and you'll need to reschedule. Double-check the list of required documents before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?

Most offices allow you to take both tests in one visit if you pass the written test first. However, some offices schedule them on different days. Call your local Department of Licensing office to ask about their policy. If you can do both the same day, you'll finish the process faster.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after a waiting period, usually a few days to a week. You'll pay the test fee again. Most people pass on the second or third attempt. The examiner will tell you what you did wrong so you can practice those specific skills before trying again.

Do I need to take a driver's education class?

Washington does not require a driver's education class to get a license. However, if you're under 18, some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete an approved course. Check with your insurance company to see if a discount is available.

What if I move to Washington from another state?

If you have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Washington license without taking the tests again. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Washington, and your Social Security number to a Department of Licensing office. You'll still need to pass a vision screening.

Can I get a license if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you're not may be able to access for a Social Security number. You'll also need to bring your identity and residency documents. The process is the same otherwise.