What you need to do to get a Washington learner's permit

To get a Washington learner's permit, you visit your local Department of Licensing office, bring the required documents, pass a written knowledge test, and pay the fee. The whole process usually takes one visit and a few hours. You do not need to pass a driving test yet — the learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the road test for a full license.

Washington has different rules depending on your age. If you are 15 or 16, you follow the Intermediate License Program, which has specific steps and waiting periods. If you are 18 or older, the process is faster and has fewer restrictions.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to the Department of Licensing office.
  • The written knowledge test covers Washington traffic laws and safe driving practices, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
  • Applicants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a consent form before you can take the test.
  • The learner's permit fee is currently $20, though you should confirm the current amount when you visit.
  • Once you have your permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat.

Documents you need to bring

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or state ID card to prove your identity. If you do not have one of these, you can use a combination of documents — ask the Department of Licensing office what they will accept.

You also need proof that you live in Washington. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Bring your Social Security card or a letter from the Social Security Administration if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead. You will also need to fill out an process for a Driver License or Instruction Permit (form DL 44) before you arrive, though many offices have copies available.

The written knowledge test

The test has 35 questions about Washington traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly — that is 80 percent — to pass. The test covers things like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies on the road.

You can take the test on a computer at the Department of Licensing office. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time. There is no extra fee to retake the test.

Study materials are free on the Washington Department of Licensing website. You can read the Driver Guide online or read it as a PDF, and many people find practice tests helpful before they go in.

Age-specific rules for applicants under 18

If you are 15 or 16, a parent or legal guardian must sign a consent form at the Department of Licensing office. You cannot get your permit without this signature. Bring the adult with you, or bring a signed, notarized consent form if they cannot come in person.

Once you have your learner's permit, you must hold it for at least six months before you can take the road test for an Intermediate License. During those six months, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

If you are 18 or older, you do not need parental consent and you do not have to wait six months. You can take the road test as soon as you pass the written test, though most people practice for a few weeks first.

What happens after you pass the test

The Department of Licensing will issue your permit on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on the office. Your learner's permit is valid for five years. Keep it with you whenever you drive.

Your permit shows your name, photo, address, date of birth, and the date it expires. It also lists any restrictions — for example, if you are under 18, it will note that you must have a licensed adult in the car.

While you have your learner's permit, you can practice driving in all conditions: city streets, highways, day and night (if you are 18 or older). The goal is to get comfortable with the car and the rules before you take the road test. Many people practice for several weeks or months.

Fees and payment

The learner's permit fee is $20. You pay this at the Department of Licensing office when you explore. They accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you fail the written test and retake it, there is no additional charge.

If your permit is lost or stolen, you can get a replacement for a small fee — usually around $10 to $15. Contact your local Department of Licensing office for the exact amount.

Where to go and what to expect

Find your nearest Department of Licensing office on the Washington Department of Licensing website. You can search by city or zip code. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can save you a trip.

Bring all your documents in a folder so you do not lose anything. Arrive early in the day if you can — offices tend to be less crowded in the morning. The whole visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, though it can be longer if the office is busy.

If you cannot visit in person, you cannot get a learner's permit by mail. You must go to a Department of Licensing office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your ITIN. If you have neither, contact your local Department of Licensing office to find out what documents they will accept instead.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no extra cost, or come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Most people pass on the second or third try if they study the Driver Guide.

Do I need to take a driver's education class before I get my learner's permit?

No. You can take the written test without a class. However, if you are under 18, completing an approved driver's education course can shorten the six-month waiting period before you can take the road test. Ask the Department of Licensing about which courses are approved.

Can I drive alone with my learner's permit?

No. If you are under 18, you must have a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat at all times. If you are 18 or older, you can drive alone with your learner's permit.

How long is my learner's permit valid?

Your Washington learner's permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. After that, you need to renew it or move on to a full driver's license.