Learn how to get a license for a driver training school, which includes all businesses that provide driving instruction for a fee.
Who needs a license?
Anyone who has a business that provides driving instruction for a fee.
How to apply: Main school location
Follow the steps below to apply for a license for your school's main location:
1. File with the Department of Revenue (DOR)
File a business license application with DOR to get a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number. Once you receive your UBI you can apply for your driver training school license.
2. Gather your documents
You'll need all of the following:
Documents for your school and school owners
- Copy of a lease for school premises
- Proof of insurance for school premises
- Driver Training School Supplemental Declaration for Online Application complete with signatures of all school owners
- School policy
- Complete student record
If your driver training school is changing owners, be prepared to provide a copy of the purchase or sales agreement.
Documents for your vehicle(s)
- Vehicle registration information
- Proof of insurance for instruction vehicle(s), which must include coverage for Uninsured Motorists (UMI) and property damage
Curriculum documents
- A completed Curriculum Cross Reference Tool form (only available in English)
- A copy of your completed Behind the Wheel form
- Curriculum flow chart
- Final test and answers
3. Submit your application
You'll receive your license faster if you apply online using your SecureAccess Washington Account. You'll pay the licensing fee when you apply.
Log into SecureAccess Washington (SAW)
Don't have a SAW account? Learn how to set up SAW account access.
How to apply: Branch location
Follow the steps below to apply for a license for your school's branch locations.
1. Update your business license with DOR
Update your license with DOR to add a new location. Once your UBI has the new location listed, you can apply for your driver training school branch license.
2. Gather your documents
You'll need all of the following:
- Copy of lease for school premises
- If this is an ownership change be prepared to provide a copy of the purchase or sales agreement
- Driver Training School Supplemental Declaration for Online Application complete with signatures of all school owners
Insurance information
Main Schools must provide an update to their insurance certificate(s) to include the new location. Please visit your main school dashboard in our online professional licensing system and submit the updated insurance by submitting a Financial Guarantee Account Maintenance Request (AMR).
3. Submit your application
You'll receive your license faster by applying and paying online.
Log into SecureAccess Washington (SAW) or create an account to apply, upload your paperwork, and pay the licensing fee.
4. Get an inspection
An auditor will contact you to schedule an inspection of your school and vehicles.
Post your license
You must post your license at your place of business before you start instructing students.
We'll notify you when we approve your license and it’s ready for you to link instructors and staff in License eXpress for Business.
Log into License eXpress for Business to print copies of your license. You'll be able to print a copy of your license after you're associated with an instructor in License eXpress for Business. We can mail you a copy of your license for a $5 fee.
Related laws
- Driver training schools (RCW 46.82)
- Driver training schools (Chapter 308-10)