Washington DOL Permit Practice Tests (2026)

FAQ

• What is an instruction permit?

  A Washington instruction permit allows individuals 15 or older to legally practice driving while supervised by a licensed driver aged 21 or older. It is the first step towards getting your license.

• What are the requirements for getting a permit as a teen?

  All applicants must pass a vision test and the knowledge exam (unless your driving school waives it). You will also need parental consent.

  • If you are UNDER 15 ½, you are required to enroll in a state-approved driver's education course (consisting of 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction). If you are taking a driver's training course, you must finish your application for a permit online or at a local Washington DOL office 1-10 days before your classes start.
  • If you're OVER 15 ½, you do not have to enroll in a state-approved driver's education course, but then you won't be able to get a license before you turn 18.

• How do I apply for a learner's permit?

  Start by pre-applying online through the Washington DOL License Express. Then visit a licensing office with:

  • Proof of identity and residency
  • Social Security number
  • A completed Parental Authorization Affidavit (if under 18)
  • Completion or enrollment proof for driver's ed (if under 15 ½)

• How many questions are on the Washington permit test?

  The Washington state permit test consists of 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 questions correctly to get a passing score (80%). The questions in our sample tests are nearly identical to those on the official exam.

• What is tested on the permit exam?

  You'll be tested on road signs, Washington traffic laws, right-of-way rules, DUI penalties, defensive driving, and safe driving techniques. All questions are based on the "Washington Driver Guide".

• What is the best way to study for the permit test?

  Zutobi is the most popular permit test prep resource in the United States. Our gamified lessons, real-time feedback, and realistic WA permit practice tests make learning the rules of the road easy and efficient.

• What are the permit restrictions in Washington?

  With a permit, you may only drive while accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older seated beside you. You must always carry your permit while driving and follow all traffic laws.

• Is driver's education required?

  Yes and no. Teens under 15 years and 6 months old must complete a WA state-approved driver training program that includes at least 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. Teens over 15 years and 6 months old do not have to enroll in a state-approved driver's education course, but then they won't be able to get a license before turning 18.

• How do I progress to a Washington intermediate license?

  You must be at least 16, hold your permit for at least six months, complete a driver's ed course (if under 18), and complete 50 hours of driving practice (including 10 at night). If you meet all requirements, you can schedule a road test and get your next license.

• What is the driving skills test?

  The driving skills test evaluates your ability to control the vehicle, obey traffic laws, and demonstrate safe driving habits. You'll need to schedule the test through a DOL-approved testing center.

• What is an intermediate license?

  An intermediate license allows for unsupervised driving.

• What are the driving restrictions with an intermediate license?

  • During the first 6 months, no passengers under 20 are allowed (unless immediate family).
  • During the second 6 months, you may have up to 3 passengers under 20.
  • You are not allowed to drive between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless supervised.
  • Cell phones are strictly forbidden while driving, even hands-free technology.

  These restrictions lift after 12 months of violation-free driving.