What is a Washington license number?
When you get a Washington state ID card, a permit, or a driver's license, you'll have this number at the top of your card. If your card was issued before 2018, the license number looks something like this: SMITHJA123QZ. Since 2018, the license number format changed to look like this: WDL123ABC23B. Everyone's number now begins with WDL (which stands for Washington Driver License).
If you have a Washington state ID card, you already have this number at the top of your card. If you don't have one, you can apply for a free license number here. This number is required before you can take a knowledge or driving test.
What is required to get a driver's license in Washington?
18 years old or older
You must pass a state knowledge test and a state road test. You do not need a permit, but it is optional if you want to legally drive on public roads before your road test. Please visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website for more information.
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16-17 years old
You must be at least 16 years old, a Washington state resident, complete an approved driver's education course, have a Washington state learner's permit for at least 6 months (this 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, not have been convicted of any alcohol or drug offense while having a learner's permit, and have passed the state knowledge and driving tests. Please visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website for more information.
How do I get my learner's permit?
First you will need to have a Washington Drivers License (WDL) number. You can then make your appointment on the Washington State Department of Licensing website Online Services portal.
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Your WA permit might not be valid for driving in another state. If you're traveling out of state, you should confirm that they will honor your WA learner's permit before you drive there.
I am under 18, can I get my license?
Yes, but you will need to take an approved driver training course like ours if you want to get your license before you are 18 years old. Enroll in our course now!
I am under 18 but I don't want to take a driver's ed course, how can I get my license?
If you don't complete an approved driver training course, you must wait until you’re at least 18 to get your driver license. At age 15 1/2 you may get a permit by passing the Washington State knowledge test and hold it until your 18th birthday. Be mindful that the knowledge test results are only valid for 2 years, meaning that you may need to retest prior to your 18th birthday to ensure your permit is in good standing.
How many private driving lessons do I need?
The exact number of lessons needed depends on your first driving lesson with us. Typically, students take 1-4 lessons, provided they practice at home with someone. For those completely new to driving and lacking practice outside lessons, it may take around 7-10 lessons to build confidence for independent driving.
I passed the written exam but I have not driven in a while, how can I practice before taking the road test?
Our Warm-Up services are perfect for you! We offer 30 minutes or 1 hour of practice driving with our instructor prior to taking the road test. Get some practice and build up your confidence to ensure you pass with flying colors!