Find out what tests you'll need to take to get your driver license.
New requirement for first-time drivers under 25
Starting November 1, 2026, first-time driver license applicants under the age of 25 must pass a free online course for work zone and first responder safety to get their license. Learn more.
What tests do you need to take?
Before you can get a driver license in Washington, you may need to take one or more of these tests:
| If you have | Pass these tests |
|---|---|
A valid license from:
|
No tests required if you're 18 years old or older. See Teens if you're under 18. |
|
Requires translated certification. Contact respective offices for more information. |
| A license from a country or Canadian province not listed above | Must complete all the steps to getting your first license |
| An expired license from another state | Knowledge and drive test |
| No driver license | Knowledge and drive test |
| A Washington learning permit | Knowledge and drive test |
| A valid license, but have a medical or physical condition that shows testing is required | Knowledge and drive test |
If you're just visiting Washington, you may use your out-of-country driver license for up to 1 year.
Knowledge test
The knowledge test is a written multiple-choice test. You'll need to pay a fee to take the test that varies by location—check with your testing location for the exact amount. You must get 32 out of 40 correct answers to pass the test. If you do not pass, there may be a waiting period before you can retest. A passing score is good for 2 years.
The knowledge test is available in 12 languages:
- English
- Español (Spanish)
- <中文 (Traditional Chinese)
- 한국어 (Korean)
- Русский (Russian)
- Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)
- 日本語 (Japanese)
- العربية (Arabic)
- 简体中文 (Chinese Simplified)
- ਭਾਸ਼ਾ ਦਾ ਨਾਮ (Punjabi)
- Tagalog (Tagalog)
- Українська (Ukrainian)
Check with your driver training school to make sure they offer the knowledge test in the language you need.
You can take an online practice test in both English and Español (Spanish).
Need to study? Read the driver guide to learn more about Washington's rules of the road.
Ready to take the knowledge test? Schedule your test at a training and testing location.
Drive test
During the behind-the-wheel drive test, an instructor will determine whether you can operate a vehicle safely while applying your knowledge of traffic laws to real-life situations. You'll need to pay a fee to take the test that varies by location—check with your testing location for the exact amount. 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 may be a waiting period before you can retest. A passing score is good for one year. If you do pass, your score will be sent directly to us.
To be able to take the drive test, you must bring:
- Proof of auto liability insurance for the vehicle you are using to test.
- A vehicle in good working condition with valid registration, tabs, and plates.
You will not be allowed to take the drive test without these 2 items.
You may use a rental car for the drive test.
Ready to take the drive test? Schedule your test at a training and testing location.
Work Zone and First Responder Course
Starting November 1, 2026, first-time driver license applicants under the age of 25 must pass a free online course for work zone and first responder safety to get their license.
Key features of a roadside emergency or work zone are orange safety cones, speed reduction signs, and flashing lights. The course covers how to navigate these zones and avoid risky last-minute decisions.
About this course
- Free of charge
- Available now!
- Must be completed online
- Takes about an hour to complete
- Includes a test at the end
- Mobile and desktop friendly
- Available in 14 languages
- Can be completed before or after any other required driver education and testing
Do you need to take this course?
Whether you need to complete the Work Zone First Responder course depends on 2 things:
- The date you get your first WA driver license and
- Your age on the day you get your first WA driver license
| When you'll get your first WA license | Age 16 | Age 17 | Age 18 | Age 19 | Age 20 | Age 21 | Age 22 | Age 23 | Age 24 | Age 25 or older |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| On or before October 31, 2026 |
No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| On or after November 1, 2026 |
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Note: This course is only required for first-time Washington driver license applicants under the age of 25, but it is available to everyone who wants to take it.
Ready to take the online test? Visit our Work Zone and First Responder course page.
Medical and vision screening
You must also have a vision and medical screening at a driver licensing office when:
- You apply for a driver license
- A vision or medical issue may impact your driving
Vision
We'll check your eyesight to ensure you see well enough to safely drive. If you don't meet the standard without glasses or corrective lenses, you may get a restriction. You may need to get an exam by an eye care specialist and submit a Visual Examination Report (English, Español, Русский, and more).
Medical
We’ll ask if you have a mental or physical condition that could impair your driving ability. We'll also ask if you're taking any medication that could impair your driving. You may need to get an exam by a medical specialist and submit a Physical Examination Report (English, Español, Русский, and more).
