New Residents in Washington State
DRIVER LICENSING
How soon do I need to apply for my Washington driver's license?
If you carry a license from another state, you must apply for a Driver's License within 30 days of becoming a Washington resident. You are considered a resident when you establish a permanent home in this state, register to vote, receive state benefits, apply for any state license, or seek in-state tuition rates.
Where do I get a new license?
There are over 50 driver licensing offices (DOL) throughout Washington state. Click here to visit the DOL website for a complete listing of driver licensing offices with office hours and locations.
What type of Identification do I need to bring?
You must present documents that establish your identity by linking your name, residence, photograph, and signature. Click here to visit the DOL website for a list of acceptable identification and residence documents.
I have a valid out-of-state license, will I need to take any tests?
If you already have a valid out-of-state license, you will only need to pass a vision test and medical screening. You will not be required to take a Knowledge Test or a Driving Test. If you are getting a new license, you will need to take a Knowledge and Driving Test. Click here to visit the DOL website for complete information.
I have a valid out-of-country license, will I need to take any tests?
Only these five places of Driver's License are transferable without any tests: Germany, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, British Columbia class 5 only. Click here to visit the DOL website for more information on out-of-country license transfer.
When will I receive my new driver's license?
When you have met the licensing requirements, we can issue you a temporary Driver's License. Your new license will be processed and mailed to you within 10-14 days. If you do not receive it within 30 days. Please visit any driver licensing office.
Do I need insurance?
If you operate a motor vehicle registered in Washington state, you must have liability insurance and carry a current insurance identification card with you. If you will use the school vehicle for a drive test, the school vehicle has motor insurance already.
Does Washington have a different Driver's License for teens?
Yes, Washington has an intermediate driver's license for teens ages 16 to 18. For a complete description of the program, including restrictions, please visit here. If a teen already has a license from another state and is moving to Washington, they need to provide the out-of-state license, provide proof that they completed a qualifying traffic safety education class with classroom and behind-the-wheel, be at least 16 years of age, and have parental permission. Their parent must provide their own identification documents and one that proves their relationship to the minor (such as a birth certificate).
VEHICLE LICENSING
When can I get a vehicle license?
If you own a vehicle licensed in another state, your vehicle must be licensed in the state within 30 days of becoming a Washington resident. You are considered a resident when you register to vote, receive state benefits, apply for any state license at residential rates, or seek in-state tuition rates. If you are a resident and do not license your vehicle in this state, you could receive a traffic fine.
Where can I get a vehicle license?
You can license your vehicle at any vehicle and vessel licensing office throughout the state, including county auditors' offices. For a complete list of offices and their hours of operation, please visit their website.
What will I need to license my vehicle?
You will need the following:
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For a new vehicle, the Manufacturer's Statement/Certificate of Origin.
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For used vehicles, the current title and registration. If a lien holder holds the title, you will need to supply a fax or photocopy of the title being held by the lien holder. If your title has been lost, you must apply for a duplicate from the state of issuance.
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Certification that your vehicle has passed a Washington emissions test is necessary if you live in the urban area of Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Spokane counties. Vehicles 2009 or newer must be California Emissions Compliant. For more information about emissions testing, please visit the Department of Ecology website at www.ecy.wa.gov
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All registered owners must present identification. If the vehicle title is from another state and there will be no change in registered owners, only one registered owner's signature is needed.
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An odometer reading if your vehicle is less than 10 years old. You and the previous owner must sign an odometer disclosure statement if you are titling and licensing a newly acquired vehicle.
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The weight of your vehicle (except travel trailers).
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Cash or a check for licensing fees and taxes. Credit and debit cards are accepted at most licensing offices.