How Much Does a Washington
Driver's License Cost?
A Washington driver's license costs $111 and lasts 6 years. Below are all 5 official fees from the Washington Department of Licensing.
Washington License Costs at a Glance
- Permit + first license (approx.)
- $146
- License valid for
- 6 years
- About $18.50 per year
- REAL ID
- $153
At $111, Washington's license fee is higher than in 49 other states. The national median is $34.
📊Official Washington Department of Licensing Fees
From the Washington Department of Licensing fee schedule. Verify current amounts before paying.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Instruction Permit (1 year) | $35 (verify at dol.wa.gov) |
| First Driver License — 6 years (ages 16–17) | $111 (verify at dol.wa.gov) |
| First Driver License — 8 years (ages 16–17) | $131 (verify at dol.wa.gov) |
| First Enhanced Driver License (EDL) — 6 years | $153 (verify at dol.wa.gov) |
| First Enhanced Driver License (EDL) — 8 years | $187 (verify at dol.wa.gov) |
🗓️When You Pay Each Fee in Washington
- 1
Get an Instruction Permit (Age 15 or 15½)
The permit costs $35 for one year.
- 2
Receive Your License (Intermediate or Standard)
Pay the license fee ($111 for 6 years or $131 for 8 years).
How much does a Washington driver's license cost?
A first-time Washington driver license costs $111 for a 6-year license or $131 for an 8-year license. The instruction permit is $35 for one year. An Enhanced Driver License (EDL) costs $153 for 6 years or $187 for 8 years. Fees can change — verify current amounts at dol.wa.gov.
🗺️Washington Compared With Neighboring States
You must be a resident to get a state's license, but if you live near a border, here is how Washington's fees compare.
Budgeting Beyond the Department of Licensing Fee
The figures above are Washington's official fees. Driver education, behind-the-wheel lessons, and insurance can cost more than the license itself.
Estimate your total Washington cost
The official fees above are only part of the bill. Add your age, REAL ID, driver education and retests to see a realistic total for Washington.
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Most states charge $5–$35 per failed road-test attempt. Optimistic? First-try pass rates run 50–60% in most states.
Estimates use the fees listed on this page. Open the full calculator to compare other states.
Fees change. Always confirm the amount on the official Washington Department of Licensing website before paying. US Driver Guide is not affiliated with any government agency.