Washington Instruction Permit Guide

So you’re a teenager in Washington and you’re looking to hit the road – where do you start, and what needs to be done in order to get your first Washington drivers license? First and foremost, prospective teenage drivers are going to need an instruction permit.

What is an Instruction Permit?

Also known as a learners permit or driving permit, the instruction permit gives teenage drivers an opportunity to practice their driving skills behind the wheel before earning the chance at a Washington drivers license.

An instruction permit is required for all teen drivers 17 and under, and in the state of Washington, you can get your instruction permit as early as 15 years old.

How Do I Get an Instruction Permit?

The first thing you’ll need to do is enroll in a driver training course. This drivers ed course will teach about the basics of driving, including road rules, road signs, and how to drive in different situations.

Once you’ve signed up for a course, pre-apply for your permit online to save you precious time at a Department of Licensing (DOL) office. Finish this application at a DOL office as soon as possible – in order to earn a permit, you must do this within 10 days of enrolling in your driver training course.

When finishing your application, don’t forget to bring proof of identity – and if you’re 18 and under, your parents will need to bring proof of identity too, along with signing a parental authorization form. Then you just have to pass an eye test, take your photo, and pay any associated fees, and boom – you’ll have your instruction permit!

What About a Written Permit Test?

It’s important to note that if you’re 15 ½ or older, a driver training course isn’t mandatory to earn your instruction permit – in its place, you’ll be required to take a knowledge test. This written exam will test you on similar subject matter covered in a driver training course. Note that you’ll still be required to complete a driver training course to get a drivers license, so it’s probably a good idea to take it sooner rather than later.