Moving? Get WA license

By law, you have 30 days to get your Washington driver license once you establish residency in Washington State.

How to establish residency in Washington

You’re considered a Washington resident when you do any of the following:

  • Arrive in Washington and begin establishing a home in the state.
  • Register to vote.
  • Receive state benefits.
  • Apply for any state license.
  • Seek in-state tuition fees.

How to get a Washington State driver license

If you have a driver license from another state

  1. Visit a driver licensing office and bring all of the following with you:
    • Proof of identity, including your out-of-state license.
    • The $45 fee for your first Washington driver license ($20 for your application and $25 for your license). 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.
    • Your Social Security number, which is mandatory to help enforce child support laws. You don't need to show us your Social Security card. We’ll verify your Social Security number, but it won’t appear on your license.
  2. Complete a driver license application.
  3. Pass a vision screening and demonstration of color recognition.
  4. Pass any required tests:
    • If you have a valid license from another state, you don’t need to take a knowledge test or driving test unless you have a medical or physical condition that indicates testing is required.
    • If you have an expired license from another state, you must pass the knowledge test and driving test.
  5. Turn in your out-of-state driver license or ID card.

If you have valid license from another country

Germany, South Korea, and British Columbia are the only locations that have reciprocity agreements with Washington State.

  • If you have a valid German, South Korean, or British Columbia driver license, you may get a Washington State driver license by following the steps above for drivers with a valid license from another state.
  • If you have moved to Washington State from a country other than Germany or South Korea, or a Canadian province other than British Columbia, you must complete all the steps to getting your first license.

If you’re visiting Washington State from another country, you may use your out-of-country driver license for up to 1 year.

When you’ll get your WA license

Before you leave the licensing office, you’ll get a temporary license that will allow you to drive for 45 days. Your permanent Washington driver license will be processed and mailed to you within 7–10 days. If you haven’t received your new license within 30 days, please return to any driver licensing office.

How to get an enhanced driver license

See Steps to getting your EDL/EID to learn how to get a Washington State enhanced driver license, which is an acceptable alternative to a passport for re-entry into the U.S. at land and sea border crossings.

Related laws

RCW 46.20.021: New residents

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