Where the Kennewick office is and what it handles

The Kennewick Drivers Licensing Office is located at 7911 W. Clearwater Avenue, Kennewick, WA 99336. This is a Washington State Department of Licensing facility that issues driver's licenses, ID cards, and handles renewals, replacements, and address changes for people in the Tri-Cities area.

The office serves Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and surrounding communities in Benton County. If you live in this region, this is your local office for in-person transactions. You can also reach them by phone at (509) 736-2600 to ask about wait times, required documents, or specific services before you visit.

Key Takeaways

  • The Kennewick office is at 7911 W. Clearwater Avenue and handles driver's licenses, ID cards, renewals, and address changes for Benton County residents.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax ID to get a license or ID card.
  • Some transactions like renewals can be done online or by mail through the Washington State Department of Licensing website, which may be faster than visiting in person.
  • The office is open during standard business hours, but you should call ahead or check the Department of Licensing website for current hours and wait times.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.

What documents you need to bring

Washington State requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax identification number for any new license or ID card. Proof of identity must be an original document or certified copy — a photocopy will not be accepted. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, military ID, or tribal ID.

Proof of residency shows your current address in Washington. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail addressed to you at your Kennewick address. The document must be recent — typically from the last 60 days. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, a lease or rental agreement signed by both you and your landlord works.

Bring your Social Security card or a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form that shows your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) documentation. You will also need to bring any existing license or ID card you are replacing.

Transactions you can do online or by mail instead

Not every transaction requires a visit to the Kennewick office. The Washington State Department of Licensing website allows you to renew your license online if your license is not expired and you have not had any changes to your name, address, or medical conditions. Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes about two weeks for your new license to arrive by mail.

You can also renew by mail by downloading the process form from the Department of Licensing website, filling it out, and mailing it with a check or money order. This route takes longer — typically three to four weeks — but avoids a trip to the office. Address changes can sometimes be done online as well, depending on your situation.

If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, or if you need to take a written or driving test, you must visit the office in person. The same applies if you are getting a license for the first time or if you need to update your license class (for example, adding a motorcycle endorsement).

What to expect during your visit

Arrive with all required documents and be prepared to wait. The Kennewick office serves a large area and wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Calling ahead at (509) 736-2600 gives you a sense of how busy the office is. Early morning or mid-week visits are often shorter than afternoons or Fridays.

When it is your turn, a staff member will review your documents, take your photo and signature, and collect your fee. If you are getting a license for the first time or after a suspension, you may need to pass a written test or a driving test on the same day or schedule one for later. Ask the staff member what to expect based on your specific transaction.

You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. Keep the temporary license with you until the permanent one arrives — it is valid for driving.

Fees and payment methods

License and ID card fees vary depending on the type of document and how long it is valid. A standard driver's license costs less than an enhanced ID card, which requires additional background checks. Renewal fees are lower than fees for a new license. The Department of Licensing website lists current fees, which change periodically.

The Kennewick office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you are paying by check, make it out to the Washington State Department of Licensing. Ask the staff member which payment methods are available on the day you visit, as this can vary.

Hours and how to contact the office

The Kennewick Drivers Licensing Office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Exact hours change seasonally and may shift without notice, so check the Department of Licensing website or call (509) 736-2600 before you go. The office is closed on state holidays.

You can also contact the Department of Licensing main customer service line at 1-360-902-3900 for questions about documents, fees, or whether you need to visit in person. This line can answer many questions without requiring a trip to Kennewick.

If you cannot visit the Kennewick office

Washington State has other drivers licensing offices throughout the state. If the Kennewick location is not convenient, you can visit an office in Spokane, Yakima, Olympia, or other cities. Any Washington State drivers licensing office can handle your transaction — you do not have to use the one closest to your home.

Some transactions can also be handled by your local county auditor's office or through the mail, depending on what you need. The Department of Licensing website shows all office locations and which services each one offers. If you are unsure whether another office or the mail route works for your situation, call customer service at 1-360-902-3900.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit the Kennewick office?

No appointment is required. The office operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, you can call (509) 736-2600 to ask about current wait times before you visit, which helps you choose the best time to go.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

You can report a lost or stolen license online through the Department of Licensing website and request a replacement. You can also do this in person at the Kennewick office. Bring proof of identity and residency, and pay the replacement fee. A temporary license is issued when ready, and your permanent replacement arrives by mail.

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than a year?

If your license has been expired for more than a year, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit the Kennewick office in person. You may also need to retake the written test or driving test, depending on how long it has been expired. Call (509) 736-2600 to ask what you need to bring.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring your current license and a document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You must visit the office in person to update your name. The staff will issue a new license with your current name.

How long does it take to get my license after my visit?

You receive a temporary paper license when ready after your visit. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If you need your license sooner, ask the staff whether an expedited option is available, though this may cost extra.