Washington Driver's License
Requirements
In Washington State, driver's licenses are issued by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) — not a "DMV." The state offers three credentials: a standard driver license, an Enhanced Driver License (EDL) that meets REAL ID requirements and is valid for land/sea border crossings into Canada and Mexico, and a Commercial Driver License (CDL). Drivers under 18 must complete an approved driver training course and 50 hours of supervised practice driving before applying for an Intermediate License, which carries passenger and nighttime restrictions until age 18 or 12 violation-free months.
Requirements Overview
You must be a Washington State resident to apply. The DOL requires documents proving your current Washington address. EDLs additionally require proof of U.S. citizenship and are not available to non-citizens.
Required Documents
Bring original documents only — photocopies are not accepted. Verify the complete current list at the official Washington DMV website.
- Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, permanent resident card)
- Proof of Social Security number — or your SSN provided verbally to the DOL agent
- Proof of Washington residency (typically two documents such as utility bill, lease, bank statement)
- Parental or guardian signature on Form DLE-520-013 (if under 18)
- Proof of enrollment in or completion of an approved driver training course (under 18)
- For an Enhanced Driver License (EDL): additional proof of U.S. citizenship is required
Fees & Costs
Fees change frequently. Always verify the current fee at the official Washington DMV website before your visit.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to get your Washington driver's license. Steps may vary based on your age and residency status — always confirm with the official DMV.
Study the Washington Driver Guide
Download the official Washington Driver Guide from dol.wa.gov. The knowledge test is based entirely on this guide and covers traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices specific to Washington State.
Pro tip: The DOL publishes free practice knowledge tests on its website — take them several times until you consistently score 90%+ before booking your real test.
Get an Instruction Permit (Age 15 or 15½)
You can apply for an instruction permit at age 15 if you are enrolled in an approved driver education program, or at age 15½ otherwise. Visit a DOL driver licensing office with your identity, SSN, and residency documents. Pass a vision screening and written knowledge test. The permit costs $35 for one year.
Pro tip: You can pre-apply online through your License Express account at dol.wa.gov to save time at the office.
Complete an Approved Driver Training Course (Under 18)
All applicants under 18 must complete a Washington-approved driver training course (typically 30 hours classroom + 6 hours behind-the-wheel). The DOL maintains a list of approved schools at dol.wa.gov. This requirement does not apply to applicants 18 and older.
Pro tip: Some Washington high schools offer state-approved driver education at reduced cost — ask your school counselor.
Complete 50 Hours of Supervised Practice Driving
Washington requires 50 hours of supervised driving practice for applicants under 18 — including at least 10 hours at night. All practice must be with a parent, guardian, or driver licensed for at least 5 years. You must hold your permit for at least 6 months and have no traffic violations in the 6 months before applying.
Pro tip: Use a driving log app or printable log from dol.wa.gov to track hours. A parent or guardian must sign to certify them.
Pass the Knowledge and Driving Tests
Schedule and pass the knowledge test (if not already passed for the permit) and the behind-the-wheel driving skills test. The driving test is administered by DOL or by a DOL-licensed driver training school. Bring your permit, proof of insurance, and a safe, registered vehicle.
Pro tip: Many Washington driver training schools include the road test in their course — taking the test through your school can mean shorter wait times than at a DOL office.
Receive Your License (Intermediate or Standard)
Pay the license fee ($111 for 6 years or $131 for 8 years). Applicants under 18 receive an Intermediate Driver License (IDL) with restrictions — see FAQ below. At 18 or after 12 violation-free months on the IDL, all GDL restrictions are lifted automatically. Your physical card arrives by mail in about 2 weeks; you receive a temporary paper license immediately.
Pro tip: Consider an Enhanced Driver License (EDL) if you travel to Canada or Mexico by land or sea — it meets REAL ID and serves as border-crossing ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Washington Intermediate Driver License (with parental consent and completed driver training). You can apply for an instruction permit at age 15 if enrolled in driver's ed, or at 15½ otherwise. A full unrestricted license requires you to be 18 or to have held an Intermediate License for 12 violation-free months.
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official Washington DMV to start your application with the correct, up-to-date requirements.
This website is not affiliated with any government agency or DMV office. Information is for general guidance only. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official DMV website before taking action.