How to get an instruction (learner’s) permit

To legally practice driving before taking your driver license test, you must have an instruction permit.

Age requirements

  • If you’re enrolled in a driver’s education class, you can get an instruction permit when you’re 15 years old, if you:
    • Apply for the permit no more than 10 days before the class starts.
    • and
    • Bring a completed waiver/application from your driving school.
  • If you aren’t enrolled in a driver’s education class, you can get a permit when you’re 15½ or older, if you pass the knowledge test.

How to apply for an instruction permit

  1. Visit a driver licensing office and bring the following with you:
  2. If you’re at least 15½ years old and aren’t enrolled in a driver’s education class, pass the knowledge test.
  3. Pass a vision screening, which includes color recognition.
  4. Pay the fee. You may pay with:
    • Cash
    • Check
    • MasterCard and American Express credit or debit cards, and some Visa debit cards.
      • Credit and debit cards not accepted at Coulee Dam, Davenport, Friday Harbor, Forks, Goldendale, Newport, Republic, or South Bend.
      • A vendor-charged convenience fee is added to all transactions paid with a debit or credit card at driver licensing offices.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to have an instruction permit before I get a license?

  • If you’re under 18, you must have an instruction permit for at least 6 months before you can get your first driver license.
  • If you’re over 18, you may apply at any time; an instruction permit is only required to practice driving.

How long is my instruction permit valid?

The permit is valid for 1 year, and can be renewed only once. However, we may issue a 3rd permit under certain unusual circumstances. To renew your permit, visit any driver licensing office.

If my instruction permit has expired, do I have to retake the knowledge test?

You may renew your permit without retaking the test. The knowledge test is valid for 2 years from the date it was taken. If your permit has been expired more than 2 years, you’ll have to retake the knowledge test when you apply for your driver license.

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