Where the Federal Way office is and what it handles
The Federal Way Driver Licensing office is located at 1717 South 348th Street, Suite 100, Federal Way, WA 98003. This office is run by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) and handles standard driver license and ID card transactions for residents in the Federal Way area and surrounding communities.
This office processes new license applications, renewals, replacements, and address changes. It also handles commercial driver license (CDL) transactions, ID card services, and knowledge tests. If you need to renew your license in person rather than by mail or online, or if you're explore for your first license, this is where you'll go.
The office does not handle vehicle registration or title work — those services are handled at separate vehicle licensing offices throughout Washington State. If you need registration or title services, you'll need to visit a different location or use an online service.
Key Takeaways
- The Federal Way office is at 1717 South 348th Street, Suite 100, and handles driver licenses, ID cards, and knowledge tests.
- Hours vary by day and the office is closed on some holidays, so check the current schedule before you go.
- Bring your current license or ID, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the specific documents depend on whether you're renewing or explore new.
- Walk-in service is available, but wait times can be long during peak hours; arriving early in the day or mid-week typically means shorter waits.
- Vehicle registration and title services are not available at this location and require a separate visit to a vehicle licensing office.
Current hours and when the office is closed
The Federal Way office operates Monday through Friday. Standard hours are typically 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though hours may vary by day of the week. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays, including New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Hours can change seasonally or due to staffing, so before making the trip, check the current schedule on the Washington State Department of Licensing website or call the office directly at (360) 902-3900. This is especially important if you're planning to visit on a Monday or Friday, as some DOL offices adjust hours on these days.
If you cannot visit during standard business hours, you may be able to renew your license online through the Washington State DOL website if you meet the renewal requirements, or by mail if you're may be able to access. Not all transactions can be done remotely, so check what services are available for your specific need before deciding whether an in-person visit is necessary.
Documents you need to bring
The documents required depend on whether you're renewing an existing license, explore for your first license, or replacing a lost or damaged one. For any transaction, bring your current driver license or ID card if you have one, and be prepared to show proof of your Social Security number.
For a renewal, you'll need your current Washington driver license or ID card and proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
For a first-time process, bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or certified vital record), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of residency. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present. For a CDL process, you'll also need a current medical certificate and your current license if you hold one.
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for most documents. If any of your documents are not in English, bring a certified translation along with the original.
What to expect when you arrive
The Federal Way office operates on a walk-in basis — you do not need an appointment. When you arrive, check in at the front desk and take a number. Wait times vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. Early morning (shortly after opening) and mid-week visits typically have shorter waits than late afternoon or Friday visits.
Once your number is called, you'll be directed to a service window. The staff member will review your documents, ask you to verify information, and process your transaction. If you're taking a knowledge test, you'll be directed to a testing station. The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is and the complexity of your transaction.
If documents are missing or incomplete, the staff member will tell you what you need to bring back. You cannot complete your transaction without all required documents, so it's worth double-checking the list before you go. If you discover you're missing something, ask whether you can submit it by mail or online instead of making another trip.
Fees for driver licenses and ID cards
Washington State charges different fees depending on the type of license or ID and how long it's valid. A standard driver license renewal costs $72 for an eight-year license. A first-time driver license process is $72. An ID card (for non-drivers) is $72 for an eight-year card.
A knowledge test costs $20 if you're taking it for the first time or retaking it. A driving skills test costs $30. Replacement licenses or ID cards (for lost, stolen, or damaged cards) cost $20. Fees are subject to change, so confirm the current amount when you call or visit the office.
The Federal Way office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you're paying by check, make it out to the Washington State Department of Licensing. Ask for a receipt for your records.
When to visit in person versus using online or mail services
Not every license transaction requires an in-person visit. If you're renewing a standard driver license and your license is not expired or suspended, you can renew online through the Washington State DOL website. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs the same as in-person renewal.
You can also renew by mail if you're may be able to access. Mail renewal takes longer — typically two to three weeks — but you don't have to visit an office. You're may be able to access for mail renewal if your license is not expired, suspended, or revoked, and if you haven't had any violations or changes to your information.
You must visit in person if you're explore for your first license, taking a knowledge or driving skills test, replacing a suspended or revoked license, changing your name, updating your address after moving out of state, or explore for a CDL. If you're unsure whether your transaction can be done online or by mail, call the office or check the DOL website before making the trip.
Parking and accessibility
The Federal Way office is located in a commercial area with parking available on-site. There is accessible parking for people with disabilities. The building is wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms and service counters available.
If you have questions about accessibility or need accommodations, call the office ahead of time at (360) 902-3900. Staff can let you know what's available and may be able to arrange for information if you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make an appointment instead of waiting in line?
The Federal Way office does not offer appointments. Service is on a walk-in, first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early in the day or visiting mid-week typically means shorter waits than visiting late afternoon or on Fridays.
What if I don't have all my documents when I arrive?
You cannot complete your transaction without all required documents. The staff member will tell you what's missing. Ask whether you can submit missing documents by mail or online instead of making another trip. Some documents can be submitted after your visit if you're unable to bring them that day.
How long does a knowledge test take?
The written knowledge test takes about 30 minutes to complete, including check-in and scoring. You'll receive your results when ready. If you pass, you can move forward with scheduling a driving skills test. If you don't pass, you can retake it the same day or return another time.
Can I renew my license online if it's already expired?
No. If your license is expired, you must renew in person at a driver licensing office. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You may also need to retake the knowledge test depending on how long your license has been expired.
Where do I go for vehicle registration or title services?
Vehicle registration and title services are handled at separate vehicle licensing offices. The nearest vehicle licensing office to Federal Way can be found on the Washington State DOL website. You cannot handle vehicle services at the driver licensing office.