When you can apply
Two ages matter. If you are enrolled in a drivers education course, you can apply at 15. If you are not taking drivers ed, you have to wait until 15 and a half. That gap is one reason a lot of families start drivers ed early.
What to bring
Plan to show proof of who you are and where you live. Most teens bring a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security number, and something with a current address. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian needs to be there to give permission, usually online at the counter.
The knowledge test
The permit knowledge test is 40 questions, and you need 32 right, which is 80 percent. It covers signs, signals, right of way, and the rules in the Washington driver guide. If you want the full rundown, see our knowledge test guide.
What the permit lets you do
A permit is not a license. You can only drive with a licensed driver who has at least 5 years of experience in the front passenger seat, and during drivers ed, with your instructor. The permit lasts one year, which is your window to log practice hours and get ready to test.