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 are considered a 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 valid out-of-state driver license

  • Visit a driver licensing office.
  • Bring with you:
    • Proof of identity and residence, including your out-of-state license.
    • Cash or check to pay the $45 fee for your first Washington driver license ($20 for your application and $25 for your license).
    • Your social security number, which is mandatory to help enforce child support laws. Your social security number will be verified but does not appear on your license.
  • Complete a driver license application, which includes:
    • your address.
    • a physical and mental fitness statement.
    • previous driver licenses information (if any).
    • suspensions, revocations, or cancellations of prior driver licenses.
  • Pass a vision screening and demonstration of color recognition.
  • After completing the steps above, you won’t need to take a knowledge test or a driving test unless you have a medical or physical condition that indicates testing is required.
  • You must turn in your out-of-state license to the Department of Licensing so it can be invalidated.

If your out-of-state license is expired

You must pass the knowledge test and driving test in addition to completing all the steps above.

Receiving your license

You will receive a temporary license at the driver licensing office, which will allow you to drive for 45 days. Your permanent new Washington driver license will be processed and mailed to you within 5 days.

If for some reason you have not received your new license within 20 days, please contact us at (360) 902-4071 or email the Photo Return Desk: fotoreturn@dol.wa.gov.

How to get an Enhanced Driver License

See Steps to getting your EDL/ID 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