Requirements for Obtaining a Driver’s License in Washington

1. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington?


In Washington, the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license is 16 years old.

2. Are there any additional requirements for teens to obtain a driver’s license in Washington?


Yes. Teens between the ages of 16 and 18 must complete a Driver’s Education Course, have a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving, hold an instructional permit for 6 months, and be at least 16 and 6 months of age.

3. What proof of residency is required to obtain a driver’s license in Washington?


To obtain a driver’s license in Washington state, applicants must provide proof of residency in the form of documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, rent agreement, or mortgage paperwork. Identification documents such as a birth certificate, passport, permanent resident card, or other official government-issued documents may also be required.

4. What proof of identity is necessary to obtain a driver’s license in Washington?


In Washington, applicants must present at least one form of primary identification (such as a valid passport, U.S. birth certificate, or permanent resident card) and one form of secondary identification (such as a Social Security card, credit card, or Washington State ID card). Applicants must also provide proof of their Washington residence, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.

5. Is there a vision test requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington?


Yes, there is a vision test requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington. Applicants must have visual acuity of at least 20/40 in both eyes or wear corrective lenses to meet the minimum legal requirement. Applicants must also pass a color perception test.

6. Is there a written knowledge test required to obtain a driver’s license in Washington?


Yes, there is a written knowledge test required to obtain a driver’s license in Washington. The test consists of 35 multiple choice questions that cover the rules of the road, driving laws, and safe driving practices.

7. Are there any restrictions placed on young drivers with a driver’s license in Washington?


Yes, there are restrictions placed on young drivers with a driver’s license in Washington. These restrictions include:
• Drivers under 18 years old must have a licensed adult in the vehicle at all times.
• All drivers must abide by the state’s nighttime driving curfew which restricts drivers under 18 from driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
• All drivers must adhere to passenger restrictions, which limit the number of passengers under 18 years old who can be in the vehicle at one time.
• Drivers under 18 years old must maintain a clean driving record for at least six months before they can apply for an intermediate driver’s license.

8. What type of documentation is necessary to prove legal presence for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington?


In order to prove legal presence for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington, individuals must provide documents from the following list:

• U.S. Passport or Passport Card
U.S. Birth Certificate
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• Employment Authorization Card
• Foreign passport with valid I-94
• Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Citizenship
• Refugee Travel Document
• Washington State ID card from the Department of Licensing

9. Is a social security number required to obtain a driver’s license in Washington?


No, a social security number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Washington.

10. Are there any restrictions on the type of vehicle that can be legally operated with a driver’s license in Washington?


Yes, drivers in Washington must meet certain restrictions depending on the type of license they have. For example, those with a regular driver’s license can operate a passenger vehicle, RV, or light truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 lbs. or less. Those with an enhanced driver’s license can operate any passenger vehicle, RV, light truck or motorcycle. Commercial drivers must meet additional restrictions, such as having a CDL certification and meeting specific weight restrictions.

11. What is the fee associated with obtaining a driver’s license in Washington?


The fee for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington state is currently $54. This fee covers the cost of the license itself as well as any associated testing or application processing fees.

12. Is there an expiration date for driver’s licenses issued in Washington?


Yes, Washington state driver’s licenses are valid for up to 8 years.

13. Is driving school or driver education mandatory to obtain a driver’s license in Washington?


No, driving school or driver education is not mandatory to obtain a driver’s license in Washington.

14. Are there any medical conditions that would disqualify someone from obtaining a driver’s license in Washington?


Yes, there are a few medical conditions that could potentially disqualify someone from obtaining a driver’s license in Washington. These conditions include but are not limited to: epilepsy, loss of consciousness, mental illness, vision impairment, and any condition which can cause confusion or loss of control while driving. Additionally, certain medications may also disqualify a driver from obtaining a license. If you have any of these conditions or are taking any medications, it is important to check with the Washington State Department of Licensing to determine if you are eligible to obtain a driver’s license.

15. Are there any hearing or speaking requirements for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington?


No, there are no hearing or speaking requirements for obtaining a driver’s license in Washington.

16. Does Washington require applicants to pass a road test prior to issuing a driver’s license?


Yes, Washington requires applicants to pass a road test prior to issuing a driver’s license.

17. Does Washington issue special licenses for driving commercial vehicles or motorbikes?


Yes, Washington does issue special licenses for driving commercial vehicles and motorbikes. To obtain these licenses, drivers must meet certain requirements, such as having a valid driver’s license and passing a skills test.

18. Is there an age restriction on when an individual can apply for a commercial driver’s license in Washington?


Yes. An individual must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a commercial driver’s license in Washington.

19. Does Washington offer provisional or temporary licenses for individuals under the age of 18 who are eligible for unsupervised driving with parental permission?


Yes, Washington offers a provisional or temporary license for individuals under the age of 18 who are eligible for unsupervised driving with parental permission. The license is known as an Intermediate License and requires applicants to meet certain requirements, such as passing a written and driving test, completing a driver’s education course, and having proof of insurance.

20. Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) accepted as valid identification when applying for a driver’s license in Washington?


No, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not accepted as valid identification when applying for a driver’s license in Washington. Washington requires applicants to provide two forms of non-expired identification, one of which must include a photo. Acceptable forms of identification include a valid driver’s license, passport, state identification card, or military ID.