Getting a Washington driver's license

Requirements at 16 or 17

• Be at least 16 and a Washington resident.
• Finish an approved driver training course. Online, self-paced and parent-taught courses don't count.
• Hold your Washington learner permit for at least 6 months.
• Log 40 hours of daytime and 10 hours of nighttime supervised driving.
• No traffic convictions in the 6 months before you apply, and no alcohol or drug offense while on your permit.
• Pass the knowledge and drive tests, and have a parent or guardian give permission.

Steps at 18 or older

1. Pass the knowledge test and the drive test. You don't need driver training or a learner permit, though a permit lets you practice with a licensed driver who has at least 5 years of experience.
2. If you're under 25 and getting your first license on or after November 1, 2026, pass the free online work zone and first responder course.
3. Apply online if you have a Washington photo learner permit and no suspensions. Otherwise, book a driver licensing office appointment.
4. At the office, show proof of identity, give your Social Security number or sign that you don't have one, pass a vision screening, have your photo taken and pay.
5. Keep your temporary license or printed receipt. The card is mailed within 7-10 days.

What it costs

Codes on your license

Washington doesn't put a class letter on a regular license. The letters you may see are endorsements and restrictions. L is a motorcycle endorsement and O a motorcycle instruction permit. B means you must wear corrective lenses, G limits you to daylight driving, and J covers other restrictions, such as an ignition interlock or a probationary license.

Moving to Washington

New residents have 30 days to get a Washington license. If you're 18 or older with a valid license from another US state and a driving record dated within the last 30 days, you don't need to take the tests. Licenses from some places, such as most other countries, mean starting from the beginning.