FAQ
Find resources and answers to your questions regarding driver education, preparation, instruction, training, and testing. To download the WA state Driver Guide use this link: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-training-and-testing/driver-guides
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Written Knowledge Test (KT) WA state Drivers Guide
How do I study for the Written/Knowledge Test (KT)?
The best way to study and prepare for the written/knowledge test (KT) is to get and read the WA state Drivers Guide booklet. You can get them for free from most Departments of Licensing (DOL) and Libraries. You can also get a softcopy using this link (language options available through this link): https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-training-and-testing/driver-guides
Control Driving School also offers a $200 2-hour KT Prep Course (in Spanish and English) if you need extra help. This course includes one free attempt at the WA state KT which you can usually do right after the course or you can schedule it for a later time. Please note that this course is designed for those who have already read the WA state drivers guide beforehand.
What should I expect on the Written/Knowledge Test (KT)?
The KT fee is $30. Any further attempts are $20.
The KT is a 40 question multiple-choice test. At Control Driving School we use the WA Automated Testing System (ATS) and you will take the test on your personal electronic device.
You must get 32 out of 40 correct answers to pass the test. If you do not pass.
there is no waiting period before you can re-test.
A passing score is good for 2 years.
The KT is available in 12 languages:
English
Español (Spanish)
Arabic
Chinese, Simplified
Chinese, Traditional
Japanese
Japanese
Korean
Punjabi
RussianTagalog
Ukrainian
Vietnamese
You can take an online practice test in both:
Español (Spanish): https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/1998476/2015-Driver-License-Practice-Test-Spanish
Need to study? Read the driver guide to learn more about Washington's rules of the road: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-training-and-testing/driver-guides
Ready to take the knowledge test? Schedule your test with Control Driving School or at any training and testing location: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-training-and-testing/driver-testing-locations
Teen Driver's Education ("Drivers Ed")
Helpful email for when best to enroll your teen
Dear Nida,
As we went over- YES, the laws and rules are a bit confusing, Mostly because the laws and rules change based on age and with or without Drivers Ed. I'll try to keep it as simple as I can here.
First thing to keep in mind is that a written "Knowledge Test or KT" score is only valid for 2 years (they must have a passing KT score within the last 2 years to qualify to take the drive "Road Test or RT". That RT score is valid for 1 year. If those times elapse they will have to re-take one or both if either/both expire.
WITHOUT DRIVERS ED "DE"
15 1/2 year olds and younger can't do anything
15 1/2 year olds can take and pass the KT and obtain a Learners Permit (They will have to always be accompanied by a licensed adult when practice driving).
I believe the Permit is $25 and valid for 1 year so you will have to renew it and possibly retake the KT at 17 1/2 as it will have been 2 years by then.
They CANNOT take the RT until they are 18 years old. At which point they can take and pass it then get their Regular old/standard license.
WITH DRIVERS ED "DE" (The below is if they are enrolled in an active DE Course)
15 years old is the youngest one can enroll in DE (and take the KT if DONE with DE)
15 1/2 year olds can take the KT without being done (or when mid) DE
15 1/2+ year olds when DONE with both DE and KT can then take the RT
16 year olds done with all of the above (DE, KT and RT- and who have had their Permit for at least 6 months and have driven 50 hours (40 day and 10 night at least) can then obtain from the DOL their Intermediate Drivers License or "IDL". The IDL has the "no driving between 1-5am" and "no driving with non-family members under the age of 20" (when alone) restrictions.
After 1 year of good driving (no accidents or moving violations) OR when they turn 18 years old they can get a regular old/standard license.
Meaning if they start soon enough they can be solo driving with no restriction at 17 as opposed to 18.
Hope this helps!
-Control Driving School
What is needed to enroll a teen in a Driver's Education (Drivers Ed) course?
Requirements- A teen must:
Be at least 15 years old (by the first day of class) in order to enroll in that class.
Have applied for an received a WDL number through the Secure Access Washington (SAW) website. (If you have a WA ID it is the number that starts with "WDL")
Must have at least 1 form of Valid Physical Photo ID (Passport, WA ID, School ID etc)
Must show proof of Date of Birth (DOB) such as with a Birth Certificate.
Must obtain a Permit after submitting the above to the school: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/learner-permit-application
Please note that once a teen turns 15 1/2 they can obtain a permit by passing the KT- WITHOUT doing a Drivers Ed course but they will not be able to take the Drive/Road Test (RT) or get their License until they are 18 years old (if they do not complete a Drivers Ed Course).
What resources can I use as a parent/guardian to teach a teen to drive?
Resources for the person supervising driving practice
The Parent's Supervised Driving Program (English): https://www.edrivermanuals.com/washington/
The Parent's Supervised Driving Program (Español): https://www.edrivermanuals.com/washington-sp/
Safe-Driving Agreement for parents and teens to establish safe-driving rules: https://dol.wa.gov/sites/default/files/forms/661401A.pdf
Does a 16-17 year old with a valid out of state Driver's License need to (re)-do Driver's Education?
No- teens 16-17 years old with a valid out-of-state driver license do not need to re-do Driver's Education (Driver's Ed) as long as the Driver's Ed course they did in the other state meets WA states Driver's Ed requirements.
Make an appointment to visit a DOL
Ensure that the DOL approves your out-of-state Driver's Ed/Traffic Safety Education (TSE). You can email your TSE certificate to TSE@dol.wa.gov for approval.
Bring with you:
Proof of identity
Proof of your out-of-state license
Proof that you had a learner permit for at least 6 months
A parent to sign the parental authorization form, or have them fill out a Parental Authorization Affidavit and have it notarized. Bring the notarized form with you to the office.
Provide your Social Security number or sign a declaration that you don't have one.
Pass a vision screening.
Have your photo taken.
Pay the driver licensing fees.
WA ID, Permit, Intermediate Driver's License (IDL) and Standard License
How Do I obtain a WDL# and/or WA ID?
You will need a WDL# and/or ID to do Driver's Ed, take both the Written Knowledge Test (KT) and Drive/Road Test (RT) as well as any Driving Lessons.
Pre-apply online at: http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/preapply.html
When you are done with the pre-application, you will receive an email with a confirmation code.
Next, log into License eXpress to access your WDL# number (It starts with “WDL”).
How do I obtain a WA Permit (Photo Permit or Non-Photo Permit)?
You will need a Permit to do Driver's Ed, Take both the Written Knowledge Test (KT) and Drive/Road Test (RT) as well as any Driving Lessons. It is suggested that you apply for a Photo Permit rather than the Non-Photo Permit. You will need to have passed the KT and pay $25 before you can obtain a permit. If you are under the age of 15 1/2 you do not need to pass the KT but you do need to be enrolled in a Driver's Education course.
Pre-apply online at: http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/preapply.html
When you are done with the pre-application, you will receive an email with a confirmation code. Log into License eXpress (LX) to access your WDL# (It starts with “WDL”).
The DOL currently issues two types of permit.
Type 1: Non-Photo Permit (which must be paired with separate photo ID).
Type 2: Photo ID Permit (which acts as a permit as well as ID).
How do I obtain a WA Driver's License (18 years and older)?
If you're just visiting Washington, you may use your out-of-country driver license for up to 1 year.
You have 30 days after you move to Washington to get your driver license. You will also need your Washington driver license before you can register any vehicles here.
Depending on where you are moving from, your may need to take a Drive/Road Test (RT). Learn if you need to take a driver test: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-training-and-testing/do-i-need-take-test
If you're under the age of 18 see the "How do I obtain a Driver's License- 16 and 17 year olds" and/or: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/get-your-first-license-or-permit/driver-license-application-ages-16-17
Follow the steps below to get your new Washington driver license.
1. Establish residency in Washington- You're considered a Washington resident if you:
Have a Washington address
Are registered to vote in Washington.
Receive state benefits.
Receive in-state tuition fees.
Get any WA state license at resident rates (Fishing license, hunting license, etc.).
2. Decide which license is right for you
You will need to decide if you want a Standard Driver's License or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL).
Enhanced driver license
An EDL meets REAL ID standards. You use it to re-enter the U.S. by land and sea after traveling to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. Getting an EDL has additional requirements.
3. Make an appointment to visit a Department of Licensing (DOL)
You must make an appointment to go into the office. Bring all of the following:
Proof of identity, including your out-of-state license
Payment for the driver licensing fee
Additional documents, if needed for EDL or name change
At the office, you'll need to:
Give your Social Security number (SSN)- just number- not card.
Pay fees (cash, check, or card).
Decide if you want to register to vote or become an organ donor (optional).
Pass any required tests. Prepare for your test by reviewing the Washington State Driver Guide: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-training-and-testing/driver-guides
4. Get your license
Before you leave the DOL they will punch a hole in your out-of-state driver license or ID card and return it to you. You'll get a temporary license that allows you to drive for 45 days. You probably won't be able to use your temporary license for ID purposes. Some businesses may accept your hole-punched out-of-state card for identification while others may ask you to provide something else for proof of ID.
The DOL will mail your permanent license within 7–10 days. If you don't receive it within 30 days, call 360-902-3900 (TTY: call 711).
5. Get WA plates for your vehicle, if needed
See "Moving to Washington: Get a license plate" to find out what you need to do: https://dol.wa.gov/moving-washington/moving-washington-vehicle-registration-and-plates
How do I obtain a Driver License- 16 and 17 year olds (Intermediate Driver's License)?
If 16 or 17 years old- to get your intermediate driver license (IDL) you must:
Be a Washington resident (your license will show your Washington address)
Successfully complete an approved Driver's Ed course
Be at least 16 years old
Have had your WA permit for at least 6 months (this time can include an out-of-state learner permit)
Not have been convicted of any:
Traffic violations within 6 months prior to applying for the license
Alcohol or drug offense while having a learner permit
For more information visit: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/get-your-first-license-or-permit/driver-license-application-ages-16-17
1. Get a learner permit
Apply for a learner permit so you can practice driving on public roads. (see "How do I obtain a WA permit" FAQ
You must complete 50 hours driving (40 daylight and 10 night driving hours with someone who is licensed and has had their license for at least 5 years.
2. Complete a Driver's Ed course
You must complete a driver training course if you plan to get your driver license before you turn 18. Out-of-state driver training courses are okay if they meet the WA requirement of 30 hours classroom instruction and 6 hours behind-the-wheel instruction.
3. Pass the KT and RT (you can do the tests here with Control Driving School or at any other approved School, Test Center or DOL.
4. Apply for your license
To apply online you must have a WA photo permit to apply for your license online. Your parent or guardian must be with you so they can give permission online for you to get your license.
Print the receipt which serves as your temporary license. It's not valid as ID since it doesn't have your photo. Your permanent license will have the same photo as your instruction permit or ID card.
To apply for your license in-person make an appointment to visit a DOL. You must either bring a parent with you to the licensing office or have them fill out the Parental Authorization Affidavit form and have it notarized. Bring the notarized form with you to the office.
Ensure your driver training school has submitted your course completion status and exam scores. The school has 24 hours to enter your exam scores into the system once you’ve passed each exam.
Show documents for proof of identity.
Provide your Social Security number, or sign a declaration that you don't have one.
Pass a vision screening.
Have your photo taken.
Intermediate license restrictions for teen drivers
Driving with passengers
There are restrictions on passengers allowed in a vehicle with you. If you drive safely for 1 year, then the passenger restrictions expire. However, penalties for other violations will apply until you're 18.
First 6 months
You may not have any passengers under 20 years old except for immediate family members (spouse, child, stepchild, or siblings by birth or marriage).
Next 6 months
You may not have more than 3 passengers under 20 years old who aren't members of your immediate family (spouse, child, stepchild, or siblings by birth or marriage).
Nighttime driving
You can't drive between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless you're with a licensed driver who's 25 years or older. If you drive safely for 1 year, then the nighttime driving restrictions expire. However, penalties for other violations will apply until you're 18.
Exceptions for agricultural work
The only exceptions are driving related to agricultural work and transporting farm products or supplies under the direction of a farmer as described in RCW 46.20.070.
No cell phones
You can't use any wireless devices while driving, even if they are hands-free. You may only use a wireless device to report an emergency.
Penalties for traffic violations and accidents
First violation
Passenger and nighttime restrictions (see above) will apply until you're 18. We'll send a warning letter to you and your parent or guardian for any of the following:
Getting a ticket for violating restriction
Getting a ticket for violating a rule of the road
Involvement in an accident where:
You get a ticket or are determined to have caused the accident*
No one involved in the accident receives a ticket
The cause of the accident can't be determined*
Your car was the only vehicle involved in the accident
Second violation
DOL will suspend your license for 6 months or until you turn 18, whichever comes first. They will notify you and your parent or guardian before we take any suspension action.
Third violation
DOL will suspend your license until you're 18. They will notify you and your parent/guardian before they take any suspension action.
When will I receive my license?
If you apply online, you'll print your temporary license
If you apply in person, the DOL will give you your temporary license before you leave the office and mail your permanent license within 7-10 days. If you haven't received it after 30 days, call 360-902-3900 (TTY: call 711).
Do I have to get a new license when I turn 18?
No, your intermediate driver license automatically converts to a regular driver license.
Who enforces intermediate license laws, and how?
Police enforce them as a secondary action. This means that if you're stopped for a traffic offense, the officer can cite you for any violations of the intermediate license restrictions.
Do the intermediate license laws apply to me if I have a license from another state?
Yes. When a driver under 18 with a valid out-of-state license becomes a Washington resident, they must get an intermediate Washington license. Learn how to transfer your out-of-state license to Washington.
If I have a drug or alcohol-related offense or Minor in Possession, can I get an intermediate license?
No. You must wait until you're 18 if you're convicted of any of the following while you have an instruction permit:
Driving under the influence (RCW 46.61.502?)
Physical control of vehicle under the influence (RCW 46.61.504?)
Driver under 21 consuming alcohol (RCW 46.61.503?)
Alcohol or drug violations (RCW 46.20.265?)
What are the Intermediate Driver's License (IDL) restrictions?
If you're under 18 years old, you will be issued an intermediate driver's license (IDL). You must follow all of the following rules until you turn 18:
Driving with passengers
There are restrictions on passengers allowed in a vehicle with you. If you drive safely for 1 year, then the passenger restrictions expire. However, penalties for other violations will apply until you're 18.
First 6 months
You may not have any passengers under 20 years old except for immediate family members (spouse, child, stepchild, or siblings by birth or marriage).
Next 6 months
You may not have more than 3 passengers under 20 years old who aren't members of your immediate family (spouse, child, stepchild, or siblings by birth or marriage).
Nighttime driving
You can't drive between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless you're with a licensed driver who's 25 years or older. If you drive safely for 1 year, then the nighttime driving restrictions expire. However, penalties for other violations will apply until you're 18.
Exceptions for agricultural work
The only exceptions are driving related to agricultural work and transporting farm products or supplies under the direction of a farmer as described in RCW 46.20.070.
No cell phones
You can't use any wireless devices while driving, even if they are hands-free. You may only use a wireless device to report an emergency.
Penalties for traffic violations and accidents
First violation
Passenger and nighttime restrictions (see above) will apply until you're 18. DOL will send a warning letter to you and your parent or guardian for any of the following:
Getting a ticket for violating restriction
Getting a ticket for violating a rule of the road
Involvement in an accident where:
You get a ticket or are determined to have caused the accident*
No one involved in the accident receives a ticket
The cause of the accident can't be determined*
Your car was the only vehicle involved in the accident
Second violation
DOL will suspend your license for 6 months or until you turn 18, whichever comes first. They will notify you and your parent or guardian before they take any suspension action.
Third violation
DOL will suspend your license until you're 18. They will notify you and your parent/guardian before they take any suspension action.
Who enforces intermediate license laws, and how?
Police enforce them as a secondary action. This means that if you're stopped for a traffic offense, the officer can cite you for any violations of the intermediate license restrictions.
Do the intermediate license laws apply to me if I have a license from another state?
Yes. When a driver under 18 with a valid out-of-state license becomes a Washington resident, they must get an intermediate Washington license. Learn how to transfer your out-of-state license to Washington.
If I have a drug or alcohol-related offense or Minor in Possession, can I get an intermediate license?
No. You must wait until you're 18 if you're convicted of any of the following while you have an instruction permit:
Driving under the influence (RCW 46.61.502?)
Physical control of vehicle under the influence (RCW 46.61.504?)
Driver under 21 consuming alcohol (RCW 46.61.503?)
Alcohol or drug violations (RCW 46.20.265?)
What are the penalties for violating the Intermediate Driver's License (IDL) restrictions?
Penalties for traffic violations and accidents
First violation
Passenger and nighttime restrictions (see above) will apply until you're 18. We'll send a warning letter to you and your parent or guardian for any of the following:
Getting a ticket for violating restriction
Getting a ticket for violating a rule of the road
Involvement in an accident where:
You get a ticket or are determined to have caused the accident*
No one involved in the accident receives a ticket
The cause of the accident can't be determined*
Your car was the only vehicle involved in the accident
*Note: DOL doesn't determine who caused an accident. If you'd like a copy of your collision report, contact the Washington State Patrol Collision Reports Section at 360-570-2355.
Second violation
DOL will suspend your license for 6 months or until you turn 18, whichever comes first. They will notify you and your parent or guardian before they take any suspension action.
Third violation
DOL will suspend your license until you're 18. They will notify you and your parent/guardian before they take any suspension action.
Who enforces intermediate license laws, and how?
Police enforce them as a secondary action. This means that if you're stopped for a traffic offense, the officer can cite you for any violations of the intermediate license restrictions.
Do the intermediate license laws apply to me if I have a license from another state?
Yes. When a driver under 18 with a valid out-of-state license becomes a Washington resident, they must get an intermediate Washington license. Learn how to transfer your out-of-state license to Washington.
If I have a drug or alcohol-related offense or Minor in Possession, can I get an intermediate license?
No. You must wait until you're 18 if you're convicted of any of the following while you have an instruction permit:
Driving under the influence (RCW 46.61.502?)
Physical control of vehicle under the influence (RCW 46.61.504?)
Driver under 21 consuming alcohol (RCW 46.61.503?)
Alcohol or drug violations (RCW 46.20.265?)
When will I receive my license- after passing the Drive/Road Test (RT)?
Control Driving School has up to 24 hours after you take your RT to enter your score into the Secure Access Washington (SAW) account.
If you apply online, you'll print your temporary license.
If you apply in person, the DOL will give you your temporary license before you leave the office and will mail your permanent license within 7-10 days. If you haven't received it after 30 days, call 360-902-3900 (TTY: call 711).
Do I have to go to the DOL to change an Intermediate Driver's License (IDL) to a Standard License when I turn 18?
No, you do not need to go to the DOL when you turn 18. Your intermediate driver license automatically converts to a regular driver license.
Do the Intermediate Driver's License (IDL) laws apply to me if I have a license from another state?
Yes. When a driver under 18 with a valid out-of-state license becomes a Washington resident, they must get an intermediate Washington license. Learn how to transfer your out-of-state license to Washington.
If I have a drug or alcohol-related offense or Minor in Possession, can I get an intermediate license?
No. You must wait until you're 18 if you're convicted of any of the following while you have an instruction permit:
Driving under the influence (RCW 46.61.502?)
Physical control of vehicle under the influence (RCW 46.61.504?)
Driver under 21 consuming alcohol (RCW 46.61.503?)
Alcohol or drug violations (RCW 46.20.265?)
If I have a drug or alcohol-related offense or Minor in Possession (MIP), can I get an intermediate driver's license?
No. You must wait until you're 18 if you're convicted of any of the following while you have an instruction permit:
Driving under the influence (RCW 46.61.502?)
Physical control of vehicle under the influence (RCW 46.61.504?)
Driver under 21 consuming alcohol (RCW 46.61.503?)
Alcohol or drug violations (RCW 46.20.265?)
Drive/Road Test (RT) to obtain a WA Driver's License
What should I expect on the Drive/Road Test (KT)?
During the RT, an instructor will determine whether you are able to operate a vehicle safely while applying your knowledge of traffic laws to real-life situations.
The RT fee is $80 (Practice Warm Up and Road Test is $140).
You must score at least 80 out of 100 to pass the test.
Your examiner will discuss your results with you, and if you do not pass.
There is no waiting period before you can re-test.
A passing score is good for one year. If you do pass, your score will be entered in the Secure Access Washington (SAW) system within 24 hours.
If you want to use your personal vehicle for the RT, you must bring:
Proof of auto liability insurance for the vehicle you are using to test.
Proof of valid registration for the vehicle you are using to test.
A vehicle in good working condition with tabs, and plates
You will not be allowed to take the RT in your personal vehicle without these.
Ready to take the drive test? Schedule your test with Control Driving School or at any approved training and testing location: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-training-and-testing/driver-testing-locations