Learner permit application

Follow these steps to get your learner permit so you can legally practice driving on Washington roads.

1. Get a Washington Driver License (WDL) number

Before applying for a learner permit, you'll need to pre-apply and get a Washington Driver License (WDL) number. You'll need it when you enroll at your driver training school.

You may already have a WDL number if you have:

  • A valid or expired Washington ID card

  • Have filled out an application on our website

  • Received a ticket in the past such as a minor in possession or driving without a license

If you think you already have a WDL number but don't remember it, call us for assistance at 360-902-3900.

About WDL numbers

Washington learner permits, ID cards, and licenses use a 12-digit number that usually starts with WDL. This number identifies you and is unique.

2. Decide how you’ll learn to drive and get your permit

Depending on your age and when you want to get your driver license, you have 2 options.

Option 1: Take a driver training course

You must complete an approved driver training course if you want to get your driver license before you turn 18.

If you're at least 15 years old and plan to take a driver training course, you can apply for your permit.

  • Give your WDL number to your driver training school.

  • Your driver training school will notify us that you’re enrolled.

    • Complete your online application for a permit no earlier than 10 days before the course starts (including weekends and holidays). If you’re under 18, your parent or guardian must be with you so they can give permission online for you to get your permit. If you want a photo on your permit, you’ll need to visit a driver licensing office to complete your application. Make an appointment to do this and make sure you bring in the right documents to prove your identity. Bring your parent or guardian and documents showing parental or guardian connection. Commonly used documents are birth certificates, adoption records and school records.
  • A permit costs $25.

Option 2: Learn without taking a driver training course

If you're not enrolled in a driver training course, you must be at least 15 and a half years old to get your permit. You’ll also need to wait until you’re 18 to get your driver license.

  • Fees for testing can vary depending on where you take it.

  • After you pass the knowledge test, complete your online application for a permit. If you’re under 18, your parent or guardian must be with you so they can give permission online for you to get your permit.

  • If you want a photo on your permit, you’ll need to visit a driver licensing office to complete your application. Make an appointment to do this and make sure you bring in the right documents to prove your identity. If you’re under 18, bring your parent or guardian and documents showing parental or guardian connection. Commonly used documents are birth certificates, adoption records and school records.

  • A permit costs $25.

When will your permit arrive?

After you complete your application and pay the fee (online or in our office), we’ll issue you a temporary permit. Carry this with you until you receive the permanent card in the mail in 7-10 business days. It will be a hard plastic card that looks similar to an ID card or driver license – labeled “Instruction Permit” in the header. If you haven't received it after 30 days, call us at 360-902-3900 (TTY: call 711).

Requirements for driving on public roads

To practice driving on public roads, you must:

  • Have a valid learner permit with you.

  • Have a licensed driver with at least 5 years of driving experience (you may have other passengers of any age).

  • Not use a phone or other mobile device while driving, unless you need to call 911.

Driving outside of Washington

Your WA permit might not be valid for driving in another state. If you're traveling out of state, you should confirm that they will honor your WA learner's permit before you drive there.

Renewing a permit

Your learner permit is valid for one year and can be renewed twice If you still need a learner permit after you’ve renewed twice, you can apply for a new one, but must retake the knowledge test unless you’re enrolled in a driver training course.

What if I don't live with my parent or guardian?

If you don't live with a parent or legal guardian, another responsible adult who helps you may be able to give you permission for your learner permit. This person must know you've met all the requirements, be over 21, and meet one of these conditions:

  • Be a relative or caregiver.
  • Be a professional who provides support to you, like a teacher, doctor, lawyer, social worker, or Washington state licensed mental health professional.
  • Be a government worker who provides support to you.
  • Be your employer.

This responsible adult can only sign for permission to get your learner permit. They may not be able to help with establishing your identity. For more details, check the identity requirements.

What if I can't establish my identity?

If your parent or guardian isn't available to help establish your identity and you can't establish it on your own, you have a few options:

  • If you're in foster care, ask your caseworker to submit a Washington State Identicard form for you.
  • If you're in the Juvenile Rehabilitation (JR) system, contact your caseworker.
  • If you are experiencing homelessness and enrolled in public school, contact your school's homeless education liaison. If you don't know who this is, any teacher or counselor can direct you to them. 
  • Reach out to local youth services or community organization to see if you they can help confirm your identity.

You can also visit a driver licensing office and ask to speak to a supervisor about your situation, They'll help you with your options. You don't need to make an appointment.

Need more help?

Here's how to contact us:

call Phone: 360-902-3900
(TTY: Call 711)
Was this information helpful?