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Starting the Journey Page 5

Getting Your First Washington License Page 11

Renewing Your License Page 13

Reinstating Your Driver License Page 21

Updating Your License Page 16

Getting a Washington ID Card Page 23

Vehicle Safety Tips Page 24

Official Forms Page 27

DOL Hours and Locations Page 28

Replacing Your License Page 19

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Table of Contents

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Starting the JourneyWelcome to the world of driving in Washington! Obtaining your license is one of the most gratifying moments in your life. Driving independently is an exciting experience; but, before you start getting behind the wheel on your own, you need to go through a process. Our purpose through this guide is to make sure you get to through it with as little stress or complications as possible. Getting your driver license in Washington is a smooth sailing process that only requires you to slightly prepare before embarking on the adventure. That is where we come in. We are here to help you know exactly what you need. You will be required to hold different permits and licenses before you get your full privilege Washington driver license. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to start this journey. So, let’s get rolling!

TEEN DRIVERSIf you’re a teenager on the brink of entering adulthood, chances are that you’re currently dreaming of obtaining your driver’s license. Well, we are here to help you make that dream true! In each step moving towards obtaining your license, we will outline and help you better understand each procedure you must complete.

Did you know that vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among people between 15 and 21? Teenagers are inexperienced drivers who enjoy speeding and having fun. These behaviors lead them to be protagonists of fatal accidents. To avoid that, Washington has a special process to improve teen driving laws, with the aim of reducing traffic crashes and fatalities involving young drivers. Therefore, if you are 15-17 years old, you will need to complete a three stage process to freely drive. As a teen driver and as a new driver, it is important that you carefully read through each step and fully understand how everything operates. This will avoid you any complications and prepare you to take on your responsibilities on the road. Let’s begin the journey!

1- Instruction permit With this permit, you will be able to practice driving while supervised by a licensed driver. It’s your first step to obtain your independent driving privilege and you must hold it for six months before continuing with the process.

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To apply you have to:

• Be at least 15 years old if you are enrolled in a WA driver education class.

• Be at least 15 and a half years old if you are not enrolled in a driver’s education class.

• If you are enrolled in the driver’s education course you don’t have to take the knowledge test. If you are not enrolled, you must take and pass it at a training and testing location.

• Pre-apply online for the permit.

• Finish the application at a DOL office.

• Bring one proof of identity.

• If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must go with you to sign the application. If they are not able to go with you, they must sign and notarize a Parental Authorization Affidavit Form.

• If you don’t have a Social Security number, you must present one proof of WA residency.

• Take and pass the vision test.

• Pay the fee.

Restrictions

• You may only drive while you are accompanied by five-year licensed driver whose license is valid.

2- Intermediate License With this license, you will have more freedom as well as responsibility to drive while you prepare for the full privilege license. You must hold this license until you turn 18 years of age before it automatically becomes a regular driver license.

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This is what you need:

• Be at least 16 years old.

• Have held the instruction permit for six months.

• Successfully pass a driver training course.

• Have a record clean of alcohol-related convictions while holding the permit and clean of traffic convictions in the last six months.

• Complete at least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a five-year licensed driver. Ten of the hours must be at night.

• Pass the driving test at a training and testing location.

You may get your license:

Online • Go to the online application while your parent or guardian is next to you to give you authorization.

• Pay the fee.

• Print your receipt.

• Your license will be mailed to the address on file within seven to ten days.

In Person • Visit a DOL office.

• Show one proof of passing the driving course.

• Your parent or legal guardian must go with you to sign the application. If they are not able to go with you, they must sign and notarize a Parental Authorization Affidavit Form.

• Present one proof of identity.

• Provide your Social Security number or sign a declaration that states that you don’t have one.

• Pass the vision test.

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• Have your photo taken, if required.

• Pay the fee.

• You will get your license the same day.

TipIf you are supervising a teen driver, use the resources listed at the Teen Safety section.

Restrictions • During the first six month, you may not carry passengers under 20 years of age unless they are immediate family members.

• After the first six months, you may not carry more than three passengers who are under 20 and are not immediate family members.

• You may not drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m., unless you are accompanied by a licensed adult at least 25.

• You are not allowed to use cellphones, unless you need to report an emergency.

3- Full License Are you 18 already? Then, you are ready to get your full license! With this license you will not be restricted to drive during certain times or with a limited amount of passengers. If you have a clean record, your license will automatically turn into a full driver license.

If you are 18 years of age or older and never held an intermediate license, go to the Getting your First Washington License section.

Driving Education Once you turn 15, you must enroll in a driving training program that includes:

• 30 hours of classroom instruction, with at least two hours per day.

• At least six hours of practice driving, with a maximum of one hour per day.

• At least one hour of behind-the-wheel observation.

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Find additional information about driving education and tips on how to choose a good driving course at the driving training section drivertraining.html of the DOL website.

ALL DRIVERSRemember that the roads aren’t always safe; therefore, it is in your best interest to fully prepare for whatever may be on your way before you begin driving. When you become a driver, you not only take on the responsibility for your safety, but also for the safety your passengers vehicles around you and pedestrians. If you are already 18 years of age and did hold an intermediate license, you may hold a learner’s permit before applying for the full license, in case you want to practice to enhance your driving skills. What is a must, regardless of your age, is to take and pass a vision, knowledge, and driving tests, before applying for a full license. Let’s review them!

Vision TestThe vision test consist of an eye screening of your vision acuity determine if they meet the standards for safe driving. The standard minimum acuity is 20/40. If you fail the test, you may have a restriction on your license for corrective lenses or you may be required to have an eye care specialist submit a Visual Examination Report.

Knowledge TestYou must also take and pass a knowledge written test on which you will proof your understanding of the traffic signs and signals, the laws related to driving, and the safe driving practices. The test consists of 25 multiple choice questions and you must correctly answer 80 percent (which equals to 20 questions) of the questions to pass. The questions of the test are taken from the Washington Driver’s Guide.

If you don’t have a WA permit or intermediate license, you must first create a record by pre-applying online or visiting a DOL office before taking the test. All the tests are administered at the driver training and testing locations.

TipUse the practice test to have an idea of how the questions will look like.

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Driving TestOnce you pass the other two tests, you need to take and pass a driving exam before getting your driver license. All drivers are required to take it, regardless of their age. This test will evaluate you driving skills and your ability to control a vehicle by asking you to perform some driving tasks and maneuvers. You must schedule an appointment at a testing location.

The day of the appointment you must take a one proof of auto liability insurance and a vehicle that has:

• Brakes and all three brake lights.

• Turn signals.

• Seat belts.

• A working passenger door.

• A working driver door window.

• Mirrors (outside left and inside rearview, or outside left and outside right).

• Windshield wipers, headlights, and defrosters, if required by the weather conditions.

You must get 80 points out of ten in order to pass. If you pass, you will be able to apply for a license. Learn more about the driving test.

Fees You must pay the permit/license fee plus the photo and testing fees.

Instruction permit $25

Renew Instruction Permit $25

Replace Instruction Permit $20

Intermediate License $89

Enhanced Intermediate License $107

Upgrade to EDL $3-$18*

*$3 per each year remaining on your license.

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As soon as you turn 18 years, you become eligible to hold a full driver license as long as you comply with the requirements. Are you a new Washington resident? You will also find all the information that you need to get your WA license in a special section just for you. Now, it’s only a matter gathering some documents and following the steps that best fit your situation to officially hold that brand new license.

CURRENT WASHINGTON RESIDENTS

If you are 18 years of age or older and want to learn how to obtain a WA driver license, you have come to the right place. If you are under 18, please go to our Teen Drivers section. Getting a full license for the first time is a very simple process if you follow these steps:

• If you are a WA Resident, pre-apply online. If you are not a WA resident visit a DOL office or you want to apply for an enhanced license, visit n EDL office.

• Visit a DOL office to finish or start your application. Comply with the identification requirements and pay the fees.

• Pass the knowledge test and schedule an appointment for the driving test.

• Pass the vision test.

• Pass the driving test.

• You may get your driving license online if you have an instruction permit and have no violations, suspensions or revocations. If you are not eligible, get your driver license at a DOL office.

You are going to receive a license that identifies you as a minor. You will get your license by mail within seven to ten days.

NEW WASHINGTON RESIDENTSNew to Washington? If you already hold an out-of state license and just moved to Washington, you will have to obtain a WA license. It is very important to make sure that

Getting Your First Washington License

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you obtain a valid driver’s license if you want to drive within the state. If you are under 18, please go to our Teen Drivers section. Applying is very easy if you follow some simple steps. So, let’s begin and you will have your license in no time!

You must get your Washington license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.

If you hold a current out-of state license you must:

• If you are a WA Resident, pre-apply online. If you are not a WA resident visit a DOL office or you want to apply for an enhanced license, visit n EDL office.

• Visit a DOL office to finish or start your application. Comply with the identification requirements and pay the fees.

• Pass the vision test.

• Surrender your out-of-state driver license.

If you have never held a license before, if you do but it is expired, or if you have a medical or physical condition that shows that you require to be tested, you must follow the same procedure as current Washington residents.

Enhanced Driving License (EDL) An enhanced driver license or ID card is an alternative to your passport when you re-enter the U.S by land or sea. To request, renew, replace, update or reinstate one, follow the same procedures of regular licenses but comply with the EDL/EID identification requirements and visit the EDL/EID offices instead.

FeesNew Driver License $89

New Enhanced Driver License (EDL) $107

Upgrade to EDL $3-$18*

*$3 per each year remaining on your license.

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Renewing Your License“Oh no, my license has expired!”That is something no one ever wants to have to say, as it means you no longer hold a legal license to drive. This means a loss of freedom and the risk of getting a ticket. So, it is best to renew your license as soon as you notice the expiration date creeping up on you. Before you renew your license, it is important that you thoroughly comprehend the process so that you can avoid any issues.

HOW TO RENEWYou may renew up to one year before your license expires. It expires every five or six years by your birthday.

As of August 11, 2014, the driver license renewal period is transitioning from five-year to six-year. Learn more here.

In Washington, you may renew your license through eXpress or online if you are 24-70 years old. If not, you may renew by mail or in person.

Online• If you have a license eXpress account you just need to log in and follow the instruction on the application. You cannot use this method if your license is enhanced.

• If you do not have a license eXpress account, go the change address application and enter the required information and follow the steps the application will give you. Use this application if you have an enhanced driver license or ID.

TipIf you want a license with a new photo, you must renew in person.

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By MailYou can only use this method if you received the renewal letter. It will contain step by step instructions to renew by mail

In PersonTo update your license in person, you must:

• Visit a DOL office or an EDL/EDI office if you have an enhanced license.

• Pas the vision test.

• Get a new photo taken.

• Pay the required fee.

Out-of-state RenewalIf you are on active duty or the dependent of one and your driver license is lost or stolen, you may request a duplicate by mail or request a 12-month extension.

TipYou are not required to renew your license while you are on active duty or if you are the spouse or dependent of someone on active duty. Your license will remain valid until you are discharged.

Twelve-Month Extension• Complete a Driver License Extension request.

• Mail the form and the fee to: Driver RecordsDepartment of LicensingPO Box 3907Seattle, WA 98124-3907

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Renew by MailIf you know that you will not return to Washington in one or more years after your license expires, have a Social Security number, and you renewed your last license in an office, you may renew by mail:

• Complete the Driver License Replacement/Renewal Request while Out-of-State. If you need the DOL to send you this form, call 360-902-3900 or e-mail drivers@dol.wa.gov.

• Mail the form and the fee in the form of a money order payable to the Department of Licensing to:

Department of LicensingP.O. Box 9030Olympia, WA 98507-9030

Fees Renew license (five-year) $45

Renew license (six-year) $54

Renew Enhanced license (five-year) $60

Renew Enhanced license (six-year) $72

Renew Late Fee $10

12-Month Extension $5

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Updating Your License InformationNow, your life may be coming to a turning point, which can mean events as big as changing your name to a more subtle change such as moving neighborhoods. Either way, this information is essential to your identification, which includes your driver license. So, how can you update your driver license should you ever need to? Well, to better understand the process, follow the steps that best fit your situation.

You must notify the DOL within 10 days if you move to a different address or change your name.

CHANGING YOUR NAMEChanging your name is not only the result of a big change in your life, but it will also greatly affect your documents and general information in regards to your identity. If you have officially changed your name then, you will surely be required to change your name on all of your identification documents and cards, including your driver license. Doing this is very simple; all you must do is:

• Visit a DOL office.

• Provide acceptable documentation to proof for your name change such as:

o A document with your new name already on it.

o Certified marriage certificate or license

o Certified divorce decree

o Certified court order

o Amended birth certificate

• Present your current license.

• Pay the duplicate fee

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If your license is enhanced you must also make sure that your new name matches the records on the Social Security Administration (SSA).

CHANGING YOUR ADDRESSIn the case that you may have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you notify the WA DOL for them to update the address on your driver license. You may do it online, in person or by mail. All you need is to stick to the process and, once you have completed every step properly, you driver license will be updated. Now, simply follow the steps below.

Online• If you have a license eXpress account you just need to log in and follow the instruction on the application.

• If you do not have a license eXpress account, go the change address application and enter the required information and follow the steps the application will give you. Use this application if you have an enhanced driver license or ID.

TipIf you want, you may request a duplicate of your license after an update. To do so, you must pay a fee.

By Mail• Open the address change form.

• Complete it and print it.

• Submit it together with the appropriate fee to:Driver & Vehicle Records Department of LicensingPO Box 9030Olympia, WA 98507

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In PersonTo update your license in person, you must visit a DOL office and they will instruct you on what to do.

CHANGING YOUR GENDER DESIGNATION

If you want to change your gender designation you must:

• Complete the applicant section of the Change of Gender Designation Request.

• Have a specialist complete the “Physician” section of the form.

• Send the request and a copy of your license to the address on the form.

• You will receive an authorization letter to obtain a new license.

FeesUpdated license online $20

Updated license in person $10

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Replacing Your LicenseSomething’s happened to your license! What can you do now? No worries! You can always ask the Washington DOL for a replacement as soon as you need it. If your license is lost, stolen, destroyed, or illegible, you will only have to request one and go on with your life. In any case, you can effortlessly replace it with a new duplicate license. All it requires of you is to do a few things.

You can replace your driver license online, using eXpress, or in person.

REPLACE THROUGH EXPRESS

Join or login to license eXpress and replace your license through it. To use this application you must have a Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit or debit card. You cannot use this method if your license/ID is enhanced.

REPLACE ONLINETo replace online:

• You must be at least 18 years old.

• Your license cannot be expired, revoked or suspended.

• You must have a Visa, MasterCard or American Express debit or credit card.

Go to the replacement application and follow the instructions.

REPLACE IN PERSONIf you are not able to use the other replacement methods, you must replace in person. To do so, visit a Visit a DOL office or an EDL/EDI office if you have an enhanced license and:

• Present a one proof of identity

• Take your glasses in case you need to take the vision test.

• If you are under 18, have your parent or legal guardian accompany you to sign the application.

• Pay the fee.

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Out-of-state ReplacementIf you are temporarily out of state and your driver license is lost or stolen, you may request a duplicate by mail as long as it is in good standing and if you are not going to be back in Washington in the next 30 days. You just need to:

• Complete the Driver License Replacement/Renewal Request while Out-of-State. If you need the DOL to send you this form, call 360-902-3900 or email drivers@dol.wa.gov.

• Mail the form and the fee in the form of a money order payable to the Department of Licensing to:

Department of LicensingP.O. Box 9030Olympia, Wa 98507-9030

FeesDuplicate license $20

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Reinstating Your License The suspension or revocation of your driver license is the consequence of traffic violations or numerous offenses in your record. If your license is suspended, denied or revoked, your driving privilege is removed and you are not authorized to drive; it is illegal. To be able to drive again, you are required to reinstate your license if you are entitled to. So, try to not stress yourself out about the little stuff because that’s why we’re here. Instead, just take your time going through the process and information necessary to begin reinstating your Washington license!

Now, what’s the difference between suspended and revoked? A suspension is a temporary removal of your driving privilege while revocation is the termination of it. If your license is suspended, you must wait for the suspension period to expire and then request a reinstatement. If it is revoked, you will have to apply for a new license.

TipIf you don’t know the status of your license, you may obtain a driving record.

To get your driving privilege back, you must complete a reinstatement process and depending on the type of suspension, you need to request a hearing. The DOL has the reinstate your license application that will use your driving record to create personalized instructions with the reason that’s holding your license and the process you need to follow to reinstate it.

OCCUPATIONAL/RESTRICTED DRIVER LICENSE (ORL)If your license is suspended or revoked, you may apply for an ORL in case you need it for:

• Work

• School

• Court-ordered community service

• Substance abuse treatment

• Healthcare treatment

• Providing care to a dependent

• Applying for an apprenticeship

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To apply, complete a Restricted Driver License application. You must provide one proof of financial responsibility such as an SR-22. Pay the fees and submit your application. Learn more about ORL at the DOL website.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE (DUI) In Washington, if you are stopped or arrested because you are operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs or both, your license may be suspended or revoked. You will be charged with a DUI if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is:

• .08 or more if you are 21 or older

• .02 or more if you are under 21

If you are convicted for a DUI in court, your license may be suspended for 90 days to four years, depending on prior offenses and the type of suspension. Find additional information in the DUI section of the DOL’s website.

FeesApply for Occupational/Restricted driver license (ORL) $100

Apply for Ignition Interlock driver license (IIL) $100

Request a DUI hearing $375

License reissued after suspension or revocation:

Non-alcohol $75

License reissued after suspension or revocation:

Alcohol $150

Probationary driver license after a DUI

conviction or deferred prosecution $50

Check status

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Getting a Washington ID Card If you are not able to obtain a driver’s license, or you are not a driver, you should consider getting a Washington ID card instead. Having an ID card is essential for you to prove your identity when you visit the bank, travel or need someone to identify you. If you want to obtain your first Washington ID card, you will need to know the proper procedures and steps to take, and that is where we come in! In this section, we will guide you through the process on how to obtain, replace, renew, and update your ID card so you can be well prepared for all situations.

When it comes to obtaining your ID card, the process is identical to that of obtaining your driver’s license, except that you are not required to pass any driving or written test and the fees slightly vary. In addition, you are able to get it any age.

If you would like to take a look at the steps to follow in order to obtain your ID card, please go to the Getting Your First Washington License section.

Fees

New ID card $54

New Enhanced ID Card $72

Upgrade to Enhanced ID card $3-$18*

Renew ID Card (five-year) $45

Renew ID Card (six-year) $54

Renew Enhanced ID Card (five-year) $60

Renew Enhanced ID Card (five-year) $72

Replace ID Card $20

Updated ID Card Online $20

Updated ID Card in Person $10

*$3 per each year remaining on your license.

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Vehicle Safety Tips Before getting behind the wheel, it’s important that the vehicle is prepared for any trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive.

EMERGENCY KITOne of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, First Aid kit, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves and socks, and a shovel.

WINTER DRIVINGOne of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter, especially if you live in an area that snows or is prone to ice. Consider these tips below to drive safely during the winter.

• Don’t Rush!

Roads are often covered in snow and ice after it snows. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for your appointment.

• Don’t Panic If You Skid or Slip

In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while driving, make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control.

• Check Your Vehicle

Before you leave your house make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze, and exhaust are all in working order. It is also important that you remove any ice and snow from your car before you begin driving; this prevents the snow from blocking your view while you drive, or worse, flying off and hitting someone while in motion!

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DRINKING AND DRIVINGEvery year thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These events can be prevented; it only requires that you plan ahead of time by taking certain steps.

Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If they also become intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. Never allow someone drunk to drive, instead take away their keys and call for alternative transportation.

If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving – such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, breaking erratically or turning abruptly – call 9-1-1 and contact authorities immediately. Also make sure to avoid them on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until they are at a safe distance from your car.

USING YOUR PHONEDriving while using your cell phone is one of the most dangerous things you can do. During those few seconds that your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Make sure you don’t text, use the internet on your phone, or receive calls while you drive to prevent accidents as best as possible.

THINGS TO AVOIDDriving isn’t always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be both an annoyance and dangerous to you while driving on the road. These things are often avoidable if you make sure to take the necessary steps towards preventing them, as well as stopping them after you discover them to be occurring.

Car AccidentsOne way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive and will not cause you any problems. To do this, regularly check that your brakes are functioning properly, your tires are inflated and not worn out, and that the steering and suspensions are checked by a mechanic.

Wasting GasIf you drive often, start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. Saving on gas is something that is possible if you take a few steps towards ensuring you save some money in the long run.

Some of the ways that you can start saving gas are turning off the air conditioning, not leaving your engine running or speeding above 60 mph. These things are preventable

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and not necessary for you to drive, therefore you can quickly reduce the amount of gas you waste.

Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well-tuned, and that your octane level is the correct amount to your vehicle’s needs.

Aggressive DrivingAggressive driving and drivers are both things that should be avoided to prevent on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized as exhibiting behaviors such as aggressive tailgating, verbal or physical harassment towards another driver, or preventing another driver from merging or passing.

If you are an aggressive driver, you are putting others at risk every time you do any of the above behaviors. When you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, take a moment, breathe, and continue moving.

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Official FormsDriver License Change of Address (also for ID cards)

Driver License Extension Request

Driver License Replacement/Renewal Request While Out-of-State

Change of Gender Designation Request

Driver Evaluation Request

Notice of Surrender

Parental Authorization Affidavit

Physical Examination Report

Restricted Driver License Application

Signature Form for Minors

Social Security Number Declaration

Visual Examination Report

28Drivers-Licenses.org

DOL Hours and Locations There are several options available for you in case you need to visit or contact a DOL office. You may find all the DOL offices here. Select a city and the address, phone number, office hours and services will be displayed. In addition, you will see the waiting time in a box at the right of the screen. If you prefer, you may get a map and driving directions too. Find the testing locations here and the EDL/EID locations here.

Have you ever visited a state agency and realized that you forgot a document? Save the trip, time and money by using the online services. Some transactions such as changing your address, renewing your license and getting your driving record can be processed online without the need of calling or visiting the DOL. Check it out here.

If you need to contact the DOL for any other purposes, you can visit their main office or mail them. Department of LicensingPO Box 9030Olympia, WA 98507-9030

You may also contact them by calling to:

Phone360-902-3900

TTY

360-664-0116

Fax

Alcohol or drug treatment reports 360-570-7044

Hearings and interviews 360-570-4950

Medical and vision certificates 360-570-7893

Motorcycles 360-570-4914

Occupational/restricted driver licenses 360-570-7824

SR22/26 insurance certificates 360-570-7040

Vehicle accidents 360-570-4966

29Drivers-Licenses.org

You can also submit your complaints, questions or concerns to drivers@dol.wa.gov for reinstating and exams@dol.wa.gov for any other question.