What you need to bring to the Department of Licensing
Washington issues driver's licenses through the Department of Licensing (DOL), which operates service offices across the state. To get a license, you must visit one of these offices in person with specific documents — you cannot complete the entire process online or by mail.
Bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consular ID card), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current Washington address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed, bring a court order or marriage certificate showing the change. Non-citizens must bring their visa or immigration documents.
You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test at the office. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one — this can speed up the process. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present with their own ID.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Department of Licensing office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and current address.
- Washington requires you to pass a vision test and written knowledge test on the same day you explore.
- The knowledge test covers traffic laws and safe driving; you can study using the free online manual at dol.wa.gov.
- Standard licenses cost $72 and are valid for eight years; the fee varies slightly if you are under 21 or over 62.
- Processing takes about 10 business days after your visit; your temporary license is valid when ready.
The written knowledge test and what it covers
The knowledge test has 35 multiple-choice questions about Washington traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, and you can request a reader or other accommodation if you need one.
Washington publishes the official Driver Guide free on the DOL website at dol.wa.gov. This guide contains all the material covered on the test. You can read it online, read it as a PDF, or request a printed copy by mail. Many people study the guide for a few days before their appointment; there is no waiting period between studying and taking the test.
If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no fee for retakes. If you pass, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while the DOL prints and mails your permanent card.
Vision testing and medical requirements
The DOL will test your vision at the service office using a standard eye chart. You must see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them to your appointment.
If you have a medical condition that affects your driving — such as seizures, severe hearing loss, or certain medications — you may need to provide a medical report from your doctor. The DOL will tell you at your appointment if this is required. Some conditions do not prevent you from getting a license but may result in restrictions, such as "corrective lenses required" printed on your card.
Fees and how long the process takes
A standard eight-year driver's license costs $72. If you are 21 to 61 years old, this is your fee. Drivers under 21 pay $57, and drivers 62 and older pay $37. These prices do not change based on where you live in Washington.
You will receive a temporary paper license when ready after passing the test. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving right away. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within 10 business days in most cases, though it can take longer during high-volume periods. You can check the status of your card on the DOL website using your driver's license number once it has been issued.
Renewing or replacing a license you already have
If you already hold a Washington driver's license and it is still valid, you can renew it online at dol.wa.gov without visiting an office. Online renewal costs $72 and takes about 10 business days. You cannot renew online if your license has expired for more than five years, if you need to update your address, or if you have medical restrictions that need review.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it in person at any DOL office for $20. Bring your proof of identity and address as you would for a new license. A replacement card arrives by mail within 10 business days.
Finding a Department of Licensing office near you
Washington has DOL service offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you, check its hours, and schedule an appointment on the DOL website at dol.wa.gov. Many offices now require appointments, especially in urban areas, though some still accept walk-ins. Scheduling ahead reduces wait times significantly.
If you live in a rural area far from an office, some county sheriff's offices and vehicle licensing agents can process driver's license applications on behalf of the DOL. Call your county sheriff's office to ask whether this service is available in your area. The process and fees are the same.
Special situations: Minors, name changes, and out-of-state transfers
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany you to the DOL office and sign your process. You will receive a license marked "under 21" that expires on your 21st birthday, even though standard licenses are valid for eight years. The fee is $57.
If you are moving to Washington from another state and already hold a valid driver's license, you can transfer it. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Washington residency, and your Social Security number. You will still take the Washington knowledge test and vision test. Your new Washington license will have the same expiration date as your old one, adjusted to Washington's eight-year cycle.
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document proving the change along with your old license. The DOL will issue a new license with your current name at no extra charge if your old license is still valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the knowledge test online or by mail?
No. Washington requires you to take the knowledge test and vision test in person at a DOL office. You cannot complete these tests remotely or through the mail. You must visit an office to receive your license.
What happens if I fail the knowledge test?
You can retake the test the same day at no additional cost, or you can schedule another appointment for a later date. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Most people pass on their second attempt after reviewing the Driver Guide again.
How long is my temporary paper license valid?
Your temporary license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic card should arrive by mail within 10 business days, but during busy periods it may take longer. You can drive on the temporary license until your permanent card arrives.
Do I need to take the knowledge test again if I move to Washington from another state?
Yes. Washington requires all new residents to pass the Washington knowledge test, even if you held a valid license in another state. You will also take the vision test. Your out-of-state license helps speed up the process but does not replace the test requirement.
What if I cannot see well enough to pass the vision test?
If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them to your appointment. If you still cannot meet the 20/40 standard in each eye even with correction, you will not receive an unrestricted license. The DOL may issue a license with restrictions, such as "corrective lenses required," or may deny the license. You can request a medical evaluation if you believe a condition is temporary or treatable.