#1 You and your License

Getting a Driver License

• To take a driving test, you must first pass the knowledge test and provide proof of residency.
• You should arrive 15 minutes early for your driving test.
• You can find a list of testing locations in your area on the website www.dol.wa.gov.

Photograph and Facial Recognition

• Your driver license, instruction permit, or ID card will include a photo showing a full front view of your face.
• You may be asked to remove obstructions, such as hats, sunglasses, or hair, to ensure a full view of your face and head.
• If you choose not to remove obstructions, your license will be marked "Not Valid for Identification."
• Exceptions are made for medical and religious reasons.
• The Department of Licensing uses a Facial Recognition System (FRS) to prevent fraudulent activity.

Types of Licenses

• Motorcycle or Trike Instruction Permit: allows you to operate a motorcycle or three-wheeled motorcycle-based vehicle on public roadways.
• Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver License (CDL): allow you to operate a commercial vehicle on public roadways.

Getting Your License

• You can get an instruction permit or driver license at any driver licensing office.
• Some offices do not offer testing, so be sure to check before visiting.
• Driver training schools and school districts may also administer driver licensing examinations.

Requirements for a Driver License

• You must have had an instruction permit for at least six months.
• You must show proof of 50 hours of driving experience, including 10 hours at night.
• You must not have been issued a traffic ticket or convicted of a traffic violation in the last six months.
• You must provide your Social Security number, which will be verified.

Intermediate License

• Driving restrictions: no driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless with a parent, guardian, or licensed driver at least 25 years old.
• For the first six months, no passengers under 20 years old unless they are immediate family members.
• For the remaining time, no more than three passengers under 20 years old unless they are immediate family members.

Requirements for the Driving Test

• All brakes, brake lights, turn signals, tires, seat belts, and windshield wipers will be checked before the test.
• You must present acceptable proof of liability insurance.
• Only you, the examiner, a service animal, and an interpreter for the deaf or hard of hearing are allowed in the vehicle during the test.
• During the test, you must:
  • Show correct arm and hand signals.
  • Use hand signals when signal lights cannot be seen.
  • Turn your head and look to the rear for motor vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians when backing.
  • Stop completely at all stop signs and signals.
  • Obey all rules of the road.
  • Demonstrate safe driving habits throughout the test.

Instruction Permit

• You must be at least 15-1/2 years old (or 15 years old if enrolled in an approved driver-training course).
• You must pass the knowledge test (unless enrolled in an approved driver-training course).
• You must complete the vision and medical screenings and pay an application/examination fee.
• If you are under 18, you must also bring your parent or guardian with you to the licensing office.

Intermediate Driver License

• You must be between 16 and 18 years old.
• You must show proof of passing an approved driver-training course with at least 30 hours of classroom and six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction.
• You must get the consent of your parent or guardian.
• You must pass the medical and vision screenings, the knowledge test, and the driving test.

Standard Driver License

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must show acceptable proof of identity and age.
• You must provide your Social Security number, which will be verified.
• You may be required to be examined by an eye care or medical specialist before your application is processed.