Where to go for your Spokane Valley driver's license

The Department of Licensing (DOL) office in Spokane Valley is located at 8714 E. Mission Avenue, Spokane Valley, WA 99216. This is the main place to explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or handle most license-related transactions in the valley.

You can visit in person during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally. It's worth calling ahead at the Spokane Valley office or checking the Washington DOL website to confirm current hours before you go, since staffing changes can affect availability.

If you prefer not to visit in person for a renewal, Washington allows online renewals for some driver's licenses — but only if your license is not expiring within 30 days and you meet other conditions. For a first-time license, a license upgrade, or if you have a suspended or revoked license, you must appear in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The Spokane Valley DOL office is at 8714 E. Mission Avenue and handles all driver's license services for the valley area.
  • You must bring a Real ID-compliant document (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) plus proof of residency and your Social Security number to get a new license.
  • A standard Washington driver's license costs around $70 to $80 for an eight-year term, though the exact fee depends on your age and license type.
  • Washington requires a written test, vision screening, and a driving test for first-time applicants; renewals do not require a test unless the DOL orders one.
  • If you have an out-of-state license, you can transfer it to Washington, but you will still need to pass a vision test and provide proof of residency.

Documents you need to bring to the Spokane Valley office

Washington requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number before issuing a driver's license. For identity, bring a Real ID-compliant document — this means a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, passport card, or state ID. A regular photo ID like a school ID or expired license does not count.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Spokane Valley address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with someone else and are not on the utility bill, a notarized letter from the homeowner or landlord stating you live there will work.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be prepared to state the number when you explore. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but the process is different — ask the office staff about options when you arrive.

What to expect during your first visit

When you arrive, you will check in and wait for a staff member to call you. They will review your documents, take your photograph, and collect your fee. You will then take a vision test — if you fail, you may be asked to get glasses or contacts and return, or the office may issue you a license with a restriction requiring corrective lenses.

Next, you will take a written test covering Washington traffic laws and road signs. The test is 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass. You can study using the Washington DOL's free online practice test before you go. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.

After passing the written test, you will schedule a driving test with an examiner. This test is not always given the same day — you may need to return to the Spokane Valley office on a different date. During the driving test, an examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you bring) and watch you perform basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping.

Fees and how long it takes

A standard Washington driver's license valid for eight years costs approximately $70 to $80, depending on your age. If you are under 21, the fee is lower. The exact amount can change, so confirm the current fee when you call or visit the office.

Once you pass all tests and pay the fee, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. Do not throw away the paper license — it is valid until your plastic card arrives.

The total time from your first visit to receiving your permanent license is usually three to four weeks, assuming you pass all tests on your first try. If you need to retake the written or driving test, add another week or two for scheduling and rescheduling.

If you have an out-of-state license

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state and are moving to Washington, you can transfer it without retaking the written test. You will still need to pass a vision test and provide proof of residency in Spokane Valley.

Bring your out-of-state license, a Real ID-compliant document, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The staff will review your driving record from your previous state — if you have suspensions, revocations, or serious violations, Washington may deny your transfer or impose restrictions.

The fee for a transfer is the same as for a new license. Your out-of-state license will be surrendered, and you will receive a Washington license valid for eight years from the date of issue.

Special situations: suspended, revoked, or restricted licenses

If your Washington license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward renew it. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation — this usually means paying outstanding fines, completing a DUI program, or serving a waiting period. Contact the Spokane Valley DOL office or check your suspension notice for the specific steps you need to take.

Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can return to the office to get a new license. You may be required to retake the written and driving tests, depending on how long your license was suspended and the reason for the suspension.

If your license has restrictions — such as corrective lenses required, or an ignition interlock device required — those restrictions will carry over to your new license unless you can show they are no longer necessary. For example, if you were required to wear glasses and no longer need them, bring a current eye exam showing your vision is now acceptable.

Real ID compliance and what it means for you

Washington driver's licenses are Real ID-compliant by default, which means they meet federal standards for identification. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings.

If you do not want a Real ID license, you can request a standard Washington license instead — but it cannot be used for federal ID purposes. Most people choose the Real ID option because it costs the same and is more widely accepted. The choice is yours when you explore.

Starting in May 2025, a Real ID license or passport will be required to board domestic flights in the United States. If you plan to fly and do not have a passport, getting a Real ID license is the simpler option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Washington license online if I live in Spokane Valley?

You can renew online only if your license is not expiring within 30 days, you have no medical conditions affecting your driving, and you have not had any violations or suspensions. If you meet these conditions, you can renew through the Washington DOL website without visiting the office. If you do not meet them, you must visit the Spokane Valley office in person.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test, but you must schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee for retaking the test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. You can practice with a licensed driver between attempts to build confidence.

How do I check if my license is suspended?

Call the Spokane Valley DOL office directly, or visit the Washington DOL website and use their license status lookup tool. You will need your driver's license number or date of birth. If your license is suspended, the lookup will tell you the reason and what you need to do to lift the suspension.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Spokane Valley office?

Washington DOL offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but you can check wait times online before you go. During busy times, wait times can exceed two hours. Arriving early in the morning or on a Tuesday or Wednesday typically means shorter waits than Friday afternoons.

What if I move out of Spokane Valley after getting my license?

Your Washington license remains valid no matter where you move within the state or out of state. You do not need to update your license unless you move to a different state and want to get a license there. If you move within Washington and want to update your address, you can do so online or by mail without visiting an office.