Washington Driver's Permit Requirements
Everything you need to get your Washington learner's permit — age, fees, required documents, supervised-hours rules, and what happens after — summarized from the official DOL pages and linked to the source.
Last verified 2026-07-13 · Source: Washington DOL — Get Your Learner Permit ↗
Fees and rules change — always confirm current requirements on the official page above before you go.
How to get your permit in Washington
- Apply for the learner permit ($35) — at 15 with driver training, otherwise at 15½ after passing the knowledge test
- Complete the driver training course (30 hours classroom + 6 hours behind-the-wheel) if licensing before 18
- Hold the permit at least 6 months while logging 40 daylight and 10 night practice hours
- Pass the driving test for the intermediate license (passenger and 1–5 a.m. limits for the first year)
- Restrictions lift after a year of safe driving; full license terms at 18
Washington GDL restrictions for new drivers
- Passenger rule: First 6 months: no passengers under 20 except immediate family. Next 6 months: no more than 3 passengers under 20 outside immediate family. Expires after 1 year of safe driving
- Curfew: No driving 1–5 a.m. unless with a licensed driver 25+. Expires after 1 year of safe driving
- Cell phone: No wireless devices while driving, even hands-free (911 calls excepted)
Documents you'll need
- Proof of identity
- Parent/guardian permission (given online) for under-18 applicants
The details
- Permit eligibility: 15 if enrolled in an approved driver training course; 15½ without one
- Permit validity: 12 months — Renewable twice
- Practice hour details: 40 daylight hours + 10 night hours
- Knowledge test: 40 questions; 80% to pass; 40-question knowledge test, 80% (32 correct) to pass; a passing score is valid for 2 years.
Frequently asked questions
How old do you have to be to get a permit in Washington?
You can get a learner's permit in Washington at 15. 15 if enrolled in an approved driver training course; 15½ without one.
How much does a Washington permit cost?
The Washington permit fee is $35.
How long do you have to hold your permit in Washington?
You must hold your Washington permit for at least 6 months before the driving test.
How many practice driving hours does Washington require?
Washington requires 50 hours of supervised practice driving, including 10 at night.
Where can I practice for the Washington permit test?
Right here — take a free Washington practice test in your browser, or get the free DMV Prep app for the full DOL-format experience with a readiness score.
