Getting a Washington instruction permit
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Create a License Express account and pre-apply to get your Washington Driver License (WDL) number.
Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026To drive before 18, register for an approved driver training course (from age 15) and give the school your WDL number.
Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Without a course, wait until 15½ and pass the knowledge test at an approved testing location.
Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Complete the permit application online with your parent or guardian, no more than 10 days before your course starts.
Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026For a photo permit, book an office appointment and bring identity documents (and your parent if under 18).
Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pay the $35 fee and carry the temporary paper permit until the card arrives in 2–4 weeks.
Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Minimum age for an instruction permit
- 15 if you are enrolled in an approved driver training course; otherwise 15½.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit age without driver training
- 15½, and without a driver training course you cannot get a license until 18.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Instruction permit fee
- $35 for 1 year.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit validity
- 1 year; it can be renewed twice ($25 per renewal at an office or online).Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit renewal fee
- $25 for 1 year.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Parental permission
- Applicants under 18 need a parent or guardian present to give permission online (or another qualifying responsible adult over 21 if you do not live with a parent).Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Who must ride with a permit holder
- A licensed driver with at least 5 years of driving experience; other passengers of any age are allowed. No phone use except to call 911.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Knowledge test score
- A passing knowledge test score is valid for 2 years; you have 2 years to pass the drive test.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Driver guide languages
- The Washington Driver Guide PDF is offered in 17 languages, including Spanish.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- What to bring for a license
- Proof of identity documents and your Social Security number (or a signed declaration that you do not have one). Under 18: a parent and proof of the relationship.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Office appointments
- Appointments are preferred for in-person renewals; walk-ins are served when possible.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long to hold the permit (under 18)
- At least 6 months (out-of-state permit time counts).Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Work zone and first responder course
- Since November 1, 2026, first-time license applicants under 25 must pass a free online course (about an hour, 14 languages).Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Washington guide
Official Washington links
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