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USA DMV

Getting a REAL ID in Washington

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.

  1. Check whether you already have a REAL ID-compliant document such as a passport.

    Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  2. Know that a standard Washington license can no longer be used to board domestic flights.

    Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  3. For an enhanced license (U.S. citizens only), gather your Social Security number and proof of citizenship, identity and residency.

    Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  4. Make an appointment and apply at a driver licensing office.

    Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  5. Pay the enhanced fee: $7 per year left on your license to upgrade, or $153/$187 for a new EDL.

    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

REAL ID in Washington
A standard Washington license is not REAL ID compliant (marked 'Federal limits Apply'). The enhanced driver license (EDL) or enhanced ID is Washington's REAL ID option; a passport also works.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Enhanced license fee
New EDL: $153 for 6 years or $187 for 8 years ($17/year issuance). Upgrading: $7 per year left on your license.Source: dol.wa.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

More in the Washington guide

Instruction permitSteps and official links →First licenseSteps and official links →RenewalSteps and official links →Moving to WashingtonSteps and official links →Lost or replacement licenseSteps and official links →

Official Washington links

Agency home pagedol.wa.gov ↗Appointmentsdol.wa.gov ↗Driver handbookdol.wa.gov ↗Driver handbook (PDF)dol.wa.gov ↗Driver handbook (Spanish)dol.wa.gov ↗Online renewaldol.wa.gov ↗REAL IDdol.wa.gov ↗Permit and first licensedol.wa.gov ↗New residentsdol.wa.gov ↗Replace a licensedol.wa.gov ↗Feesdol.wa.gov ↗

These links open official government websites. USA DMV is an independent study site and is not affiliated with any of them.

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Not a government website. USA DMV (usadmv.app) is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by any state DMV, the Texas Department of Public Safety or any other government agency. Practice questions are written to reflect official driver handbooks but are not the official test questions. Always confirm current requirements with your state’s licensing agency.