How to Get Your Washington Learner’s Permit
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk
Methodology & Editorial PolicyHow to study (step by step)
- Start your application
Begin your application online or at a driver licensing office. You may start at age 15 or older if enrolled in driver education or age 15½ otherwise. (Parental/guardian consent required if under 18.)
- Take the Diagnostic Test
Check your baseline first so your practice is efficient.
- Practice Tests (At least 2–3 sets)
Complete at least 2–3 sets. Short 10-minute sessions work best.
- Clear your mistakes
Use the Challenge Bank to fix every missed question and lock in the rule.
- Practice exam simulator
Keep practicing until you’re consistently scoring 80% or higher.
- 3–5 short study sessions per week
- 80–120 total practice questions
WA DOL permit test - what to expect
The Washington permit test has 40 questions. You must get 32 correct (80%) to pass.
- Where: Any Washington DOL office (find locations)
- Bring: ID + SSN + residency proof + permit/license fee (see checklist)
- If you fail: You may immediately retake the knowledge test as soon as you’re ready (fees may vary by testing location).
- Commonly missed: safe following distance (3-second rule), passing, and lane marking rules.

