Washington Driver's License

Department of Licensing (DOL)

Washington requires new residents to get a WA license within 30 days. The state issues licenses regardless of immigration status.

Required Documents

identity

  • Valid passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Permanent resident card
  • EAD
  • Foreign passport with valid visa

ssn

  • Social Security card
  • If no SSN, a signed declaration

residency

  • Utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Lease agreement
  • Pay stub with WA address

legal presence

  • Not required for standard license (WA issues to all residents)

Written Knowledge Test

Questions

40

Passing Score

32 correct (80%)

Attempts

Can retake same day if time permits

Languages

9+ languages

English
Spanish
Chinese
Vietnamese
Korean
Russian
Arabic
Somali
Tigrinya

Study Tips:

  • Study WA Driver Guide
  • Available in 9+ languages
  • Focus on WA-specific laws

Behind-the-Wheel Test

Duration: About 20 minutes

Requirements:

  • Instruction permit
  • Vehicle with valid registration and insurance
  • Licensed driver to accompany you

What They Test:

  • Lane changes
  • Intersections
  • Parking
  • Residential and business district driving

Fees

$25

learner permit

$71.50 (6 years)

license

$35 additional

real id upgrade

$71.50

renewal

Tips for Immigrants

Washington issues standard driver licenses to ALL residents regardless of immigration status

No Social Security Number required - just sign a declaration

Written test available in 9+ languages including Somali and Tigrinya

This is one of the most immigrant-friendly states for driver licensing

Ready to get your Washington license?

Let ImmigrationGuide help you prepare all your documents and forms.