How to Get Your Washington Learner's Permit (DOL Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Instruction Permit through the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Instruction Permit in Washington, you must be at least 15 (with driver education) and apply in person at the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Washington's knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving from the Washington Driver Guide. Teens complete driver education and supervised practice, then follow intermediate-license passenger and nighttime restrictions.
Documents to bring to the DOL
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity, such as a certified U.S. or foreign birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, or an existing Washington driver license or ID card.
- Your Social Security number (the DOL verifies it with the Social Security Administration; if you do not have one, you may sign a declaration stating so).
- Proof of your current Washington residential address, and a mailing address if it is different.
- For applicants under 18: a parent or guardian present to grant permission online, plus a document showing the parental or guardian relationship such as a birth certificate, adoption record, or school record.
- For applicants under 18 seeking a license before turning 18: enrollment in or completion of a state-approved driver training education course.
The knowledge test
In Washington, the knowledge test is taken in person. A written multiple-choice knowledge test of 40 questions requiring at least 32 correct answers to pass, taken in person at a driver training school or an approved testing location.
Rehearse with our free Washington practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Washington Practice Test →Fees
The DOL charges $35 for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DOL before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Drivers under 18 who move up to an intermediate license face restrictions for the first year: for the first 6 months they may not carry passengers under 20 unless they are immediate family, and for the next 6 months no more than three such passengers. A nighttime driving ban from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. applies unless a supervising adult 25 or older is present, and cell phone use while driving is prohibited.
Washington permit FAQ
How many questions is the Washington permit test?
The DOL knowledge test has about 40 questions, and you need 32 of 40 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Washington permit test online?
In Washington, the knowledge test is taken in person. A written multiple-choice knowledge test of 40 questions requiring at least 32 correct answers to pass, taken in person at a driver training school or an approved testing location.
What do I need to bring to the DOL?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Washington residency, plus anything required for a Instruction Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Washington permit?
You can apply for a Instruction Permit at 15 (with driver education) in Washington, provided you meet the DOL's other requirements.
How much does a Washington permit cost?
The DOL charges $35 for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DOL.
What happens if I fail the Washington permit test?
If you do not pass, there may be a waiting period before you can retest. Once you pass, your score stays valid for two years.
Official sources: dol.wa.gov · dol.wa.gov · dol.wa.gov