Steps to getting your license:
1. If you need to practice driving or take a driver training course, see Washington Driver's Permit.
2. Getting a Driver's License
- Find out if you can pre-apply online. Some restrictions may apply, but try this first.
- You will receive an account number which you will take with you to your tests and to the DOL to complete your application.
- If you can't pre-apply, go to the DOL and apply in person – you will need all of your documents to apply in person.
- If you have a permit, skip this step.
3. Pass the knowledge test at a training and testing location. If you're taking driver training or you've passed the knowledge test, skip this step.
- Be sure to take your account number with you!
4. Visit a driver licensing office to apply for a license. If you have a permit, skip this step.
- Bring with you:
Proof of identity- Passport
- Visa – this should have Gonzaga University printed on it as the school you are going to. This should be enough to establish your residency in Washington state.
- Driver’s license from your home country, if available
- I-20 or DS-2019
- Electronic I-94 form which you can find here; click on get most recent I-94 and print a copy.
- Proof of residence:
- Your Social Security number (SSN) if you have one - You don't need to show the card. They will still be able to verify it.
- If you don't have a Social Security Number,
- SEVIS Record which you can receive from the ISSS Office.
- Letter of Enrollment which you can receive from the ISSS Office.
- Fees: $89.00 ($35 application fee + $54 issuance fee)
- Cash
- Check
- MasterCard and American Express credit/debit cards and some Visa debit cards.
- There’s a vendor-charged fee on all credit/debit card purchases
- During your visit, you will also have to:
- Pass a vision screening.
- Decide if you want to be an organ donor (optional).
5. Schedule a drive test at a training and testing location
6. Pass the drive test
7. Get your license
- Online if you have an instruction permit
- If you have a WA photo instruction permit and don't have any driving violations, license suspensions, or revocations. Print the receipt. It's your temporary license.
- At a driver licensing office if you don't have an instruction permit
- Be prepared to wait in line. See Tips for visiting an office: Driver licensing offices. You'll get your temporary license before you leave.
8. Keep your temporary license with you until you receive your permanent license, which should happen within 7-10 days. If you haven't received it after 40 days, please visit a driver licensing office.