Washington DMV License

Drivers Permits in Washington

According to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL), the leading cause of injury and death in Washington is car crashes. Washington has therefore implemented a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program to help teenagers become more responsible drivers. Under the program, teens you must achieve age- and experience-related milestones before obtaining their driver’s license.

Obtain your instruction (learner’s) permit is the first steps on your path to your Washington driver’s license.

Washington Learner’s Permit

You must be at least 15 years old and enrolled in a Driver’s Ed program to apply for your Washington Learner’s Permit. However, if you are 15 ½ years old you do not have to be enrolled in Driver’s Ed but you will be required to pass the knowledge test.

To apply, visit your local driver licensing office and:

• Submit proof of identity, Washington residency, U.S citizenship and social security number.
• Submit a completed Parental Authorization Affidavit (Form DLE-520-003).
• A printed waiver from your Driver’s Ed provider.
• Submit proof of enrollment in Driver’s Ed.
• Pass a vision test.
• Pass a written knowledge exam
• Get your picture taken.
• Pay the $25 application fee

Your learner’s permit is valid for a period of one year and you can only renew it once.

While holding your learner’s permit, you must drive under the supervision of a licensed driver who has been licensed for at least 5 years and your supervisor must seat next to the driver seat.

Washington Intermediate License

You are eligible to apply for your intermediate license once you turn 16 years old. However, you must have held your learner’s permit for more than six months and you must have completed 50 hours of behind-the-wheel practice, with at least 10 hours being at night. In addition, you must not have had any traffic violations in the last six months and have not been convicted of any drug- or alcohol-related violations.

To apply, visit your local driver licensing office and submit:

• Your instruction permit
• Your Social Security number.
• Signed certificate of completion for a driver training course.
• A signed Parental Authorization Affidavit (Form DLE-520-003).
• Pass a vision test
• Pay the $35 application fee and an addition of  $54 licensing fee

Your license will be mailed to you within 10 days, but you will be issued with a temporary license.