DMV
← Back to Washington Permit

How to Get Your Washington Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with WA DOL directly.

Enrolled in Driver Education

  1. Enroll in an approved driver education course

    Enrolling in a Washington-approved driver education course lets you apply for an instruction permit starting at 15, half a year earlier than an applicant who isn't enrolled.

    • Driver education enrollment record

  2. Apply for your instruction permit

    Pass the 40-question knowledge test (mixed multiple-choice and true/false, 80% to pass) and a vision screening at a DOL office.

    • Parent/guardian consent

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving

    Log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, with a supervisor at least 21 who's held a license at least 3 years.

  4. Hold the permit at least 6 months

    Washington requires holding the instruction permit for a minimum of 6 months before applying for an intermediate license.

  5. Complete driver education and pass the licensing exam

    Complete the driver education course and pass the licensing exam administered by the department to become eligible for an intermediate license at 16.

    • Driver education completion record
    • Supervised driving certification

  6. Follow intermediate license restrictions

    For the first 6 months (or until 18), carry no non-family passengers under 20; after that, up to 3 are allowed. No driving 1 a.m.-5 a.m. unless with a licensed driver 25 or older.

  7. Move to a full license

    Once you turn 18 (or complete the restriction period, whichever comes first) and have a clean record, the intermediate restrictions end.

Not Enrolled in Driver Education

  1. Apply for your instruction permit at 15 years 6 months

    Without driver education enrollment, the minimum age to apply for an instruction permit is 15 years 6 months, half a year later than an enrolled applicant.

  2. Pass the knowledge test and vision screening

    Pass the same 40-question knowledge test (80% to pass) and vision screening at a DOL office.

    • Identification documents

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving

    Log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 at night, with a supervisor at least 21 who's held a license at least 3 years.

  4. Hold the permit at least 6 months, then complete driver education

    An approved driver education course is still required before the intermediate license, regardless of the age at which the permit was obtained.

  5. Apply for an intermediate license at 16

    Pass the licensing exam and meet all other requirements to receive an intermediate license, subject to the same passenger and curfew restrictions.

Notes

  • A May 1, 2026 change to Washington's intermediate-license law expanded who can supervise a permit holder's driving beyond parents and guardians to include certain professionals who support minors.
  • The knowledge test is taken on a computer terminal at a DOL office or approved driver training school — there is no remote/online testing option.
  • Exact fees and current driver-education provider requirements change over time — confirm the current process on the official Washington DOL website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-20