How many questions are on the Washington permit test?

The Washington written knowledge test has roughly 46 questions; check the Washington DMV for the current count and passing score.

What's the passing score in Washington?

Most states require 80%; verify the current threshold on the Washington DMV site.

Can I retake the permit test if I fail?

Yes. States typically allow several retakes — fees and waiting periods vary.

How long is this practice test?

This practice test contains 46 questions, modeled on real DMV permit knowledge items.

Are the practice questions identical to the real DMV test?

No. The real test uses a private item bank. These questions cover the same topics, drawn from official handbook content.

What do you need to prove your identity when you apply for a new license?

A valid U.S. passport or birth certificate.

A piece of mail with your address.

A library card with your name on it.

A letter from a neighbor confirming who you are.

You have just moved to Washington from another state. How soon must you get a Washington driver license?

You do not need to switch unless you sell your car.

Sarah is 16 years old and has her Intermediate Driver License (IDL). Which of the following is she allowed to do?

Drive with only her parents in the car.

Drive alone to work at 10:00 PM.

Drive on the highway without an adult.

Drive with three friends her age in the back seat.

What documents do you need to prove you live in Washington State?

Two documents showing your name and Washington address.

A verbal promise to the clerk that you live here.

One document showing your name and address.

How many questions must you answer correctly to pass the Washington knowledge test?

You must get 20 out of 25 correct.

You must get 22 out of 25 correct.

You must get 15 out of 25 correct.

You must get all 25 questions correct.

Which type of license is required for a driver under 18 years old?

An Intermediate Driver License (IDL).

A Commercial Driver License (CDL).

You just moved to Washington from another state. What must you do to get a Washington driver license?

You must get a new Washington license within 30 days.

You only need to update your address online.

You must wait one year before applying.

You can drive with your Oregon license forever.

You are a new resident with a valid out-of-state license. What is required to get your Washington license?

You must take the written test, but not the driving test.

You must wait six months before applying.

You must take both the written and driving tests.

You can trade your license without any tests.

What documents must you bring to prove your identity when applying for a license?

A valid birth certificate or passport.

Only your social security card.

A friend's letter saying you live here.

Do you have a valid driver license from another country? What must you do to drive legally in Washington?

She must get a Washington license within 30 days of becoming a resident

She needs an International Driving Permit but never a Washington license

She only needs to get a Washington license if she gets a traffic ticket

She can drive forever with just her foreign license

How many questions are on the Washington written knowledge test? How many must you answer correctly to pass?

25 questions total; 20 correct to pass

20 questions total; 15 correct to pass

30 questions total; 24 correct to pass

25 questions total; 18 correct to pass

You just moved to Washington from another state. What must you do within 30 days of becoming a resident?

Apply for a Washington driver license within 30 days

Drive with her Oregon license for one full year

Wait until her Oregon license expires to get a Washington one

Only get a Washington license if she buys a car

What is the main difference between a standard driver license and an Intermediate Driver License (IDL)?

He cannot drive between 11 PM and 5 AM without an adult

He does not need to wear a seatbelt

He cannot drive at all during the day

He is not allowed to drive on highways

Which of these documents usually proves you live in Washington?

A current utility bill with your name and address

A newspaper clipping about your neighborhood

A bank statement from another state

A letter from a friend saying you live there

You just moved to Washington from another state. What do you need to do?

She must apply for a Washington license within 30 days

She only needs to get a Washington license if she gets a ticket

She must take the driving test again immediately

She can keep driving with her Oregon license forever

What happens if you are under 18 and get your driver license in Washington?

You get an Intermediate Driver License (IDL) with restrictions

You must wait until you are 21 to drive

You only get a learner's permit forever

You get a full license with no restrictions

What documents do you need to bring to prove your identity when applying for a license?

Proof of identity and proof of Washington residence

A photocopy of his license from another state

Only a utility bill showing his address

Before you start your car to drive, what should you do with your side mirrors?

Position them so you can see the sides of your own vehicle

Set them to look straight back over your shoulder

Adjust them only if you cannot see the cars behind you

Leave them in the position the last driver left them

A 6-year-old child who weighs 55 pounds needs to be secured in the vehicle. How must they ride?

In a forward-facing car seat with a harness

In a regular seat belt without a booster

In a standard seat belt with a booster seat

Your car has foggy windows and dirty side glass. How should you prepare before driving?

Clean all glass surfaces with a cloth and window cleaner

Wipe the inside glass with your hand and drive slowly

Turn on the defroster and drive until the windows clear

Tilt your head to see through the clean parts of the glass

You are driving a truck loaded with heavy boxes. What must you do to follow the law?

Secure the load so nothing can roll, slide, or fall out

Drive slowly so the boxes do not fall out

Ask a passenger to hold the boxes in place

Only secure the boxes if you are driving on a highway

What is the minimum liability insurance needed to drive legally in Washington?

$25,000 for injury to one person

$50,000 for injury to one person

No insurance is required if you drive carefully

Before you drive, what is the most important step for your vehicle's visibility?

Wipe all glass surfaces clean so you can see clearly

Adjust the seat so your feet can reach the pedals easily

Make sure your phone is connected to the Bluetooth system

Check that your radio volume is turned up high

What is the minimum liability insurance that Washington law requires drivers to carry?

$25,000 for one person, $50,000 for two or more, and $10,000 for property damage

$15,000 for one person, $30,000 for two or more, and $5,000 for property damage

$100,000 for one person, $300,000 for two or more, and $50,000 for property damage

$50,000 for one person, $100,000 for two or more, and $25,000 for property damage

You are driving with your 8-year-old daughter who weighs 65 pounds. Which restraint is required by law?

She must use a booster seat or a seat belt that fits properly

She can hold onto the seat belt with her hands

She must sit in the front seat with the airbag turned off

She can use an adult seat belt without a booster

When you get into your car, what is the correct order for adjusting your seating position?

Adjust the seat so you can reach pedals, then set mirrors

Turn on the engine, then adjust the seat and mirrors

Set the mirrors first, then adjust the seat

Put on your seat belt, then adjust the seat and mirrors

You are driving with a large load of lumber in the back of your pickup truck. What must you do to stay legal and safe?

Tie down the load securely so it cannot move or fall

Ask a passenger to hold the load while you drive

Drive slowly so the load does not fall off

Place a flag on the end of the longest piece of wood

Before you start driving, which of these actions is required to ensure your vehicle is safe?

Check that your tires have enough air and your lights are working

Wipe the inside of your windows only if it is raining

Make sure your load is loose so it can shift easily if you stop suddenly

Adjust your seat only if you feel uncomfortable after driving for an hour

You are driving on the highway with a large box in the back of your truck. What must you do according to Washington law?

Secure the load so it cannot move or fall out of the vehicle

Drive slower than 45 mph so the box does not fall out

Ask a passenger to hold the box while you drive

Put a flag on the box so other drivers can see it

A 4-year-old child weighs 45 pounds. What is the safest and legal restraint for this child in Washington?

A forward-facing child safety seat with a harness

The child can sit in the front seat without a seat belt

Which choice shows the right way to adjust your side mirrors before you drive?

Adjust them so you can see the lane next to you with very little movement of your head

Position them so you can see the side of your own car clearly

Look at the mirrors only when you need to change lanes

Set them to see the road directly behind your bumper

Before you start driving, what should you do to ensure you can see clearly?

Clean the inside and outside of all glass surfaces

Clean the side windows only if they are dirty

Wipe only the windshield if it is raining

Use a tissue to wipe the dashboard to reduce glare

What must you have to legally drive a car in Washington State?

A valid driver license and proof of insurance

A valid driver license and a vehicle registration only

A valid driver license and a clean driving record

A valid driver license and a paid parking ticket

How should you adjust your seat and mirrors before driving?

Adjust the seat so you can reach the pedals and see clearly

Set the mirrors to only show the rear window

Sit close to the wheel with mirrors aimed at the sky

Lean back as far as possible to relax while driving

You are driving with a heavy box in the back of your pickup truck. What must you do?

Secure the load so it cannot move or fall off

Place the box on the seat next to you

Cover the box with a tarp but do not tie it down

Drive slowly so the load does not slide out

A 5-year-old child weighs 45 pounds. What is the correct restraint for this child?

A booster seat used with a seat belt

No restraint is needed for children this age

You are driving on a highway and see a green sign with the name of the next city and the distance. What is this sign?

A guide sign showing directions and distances.

A warning sign for a construction zone.

A sign indicating a school zone ahead.

A regulatory sign telling you the speed limit.

You are approaching a roundabout. A sign shows a circle of arrows. How do you navigate it?

Stop before entering and wait for a gap in traffic.

Drive straight through the center of the circle.

Enter immediately without slowing down.

Turn left immediately upon entering.

Which shape and color identifies a 'Do Not Enter' sign?

A white square with a red circle and slash.

A green rectangle with white text.

A yellow diamond with black text.

What does a flashing yellow traffic light mean you should do?

Slow down and proceed with caution.

Turn right only, no left turns allowed.

Speed up to clear the intersection quickly.

Stop completely and wait for a green light.

You see a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a picture of a deer. What should you do?

Slow down and be ready to stop if an animal crosses.

Speed up to get past the area faster.

Stop the car immediately to look for deer.

Honk your horn to scare any deer away.

You are driving and see a diamond-shaped orange sign with a picture of a worker. What does this mean?

Road work is ahead and you should slow down.

You must turn left immediately.

The road is closed for the day.

You see a yellow traffic light ahead. What should you do?

Ignore the light and keep going.

You see a double solid yellow line on the road. What does this mean?

You are not allowed to cross the line to pass.

You can pass any car if you use your turn signal.

You can cross the line to park on the side.

You can pass only if the car in front is turning left.

Free Washington DMV Permit Practice Test 2026

Washington permit test: quick facts

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gathers and analyzes data on various aspects of road safety in the United States. Here are some key statistics and findings from recent reports:

In 2023, there were 6,498, 12, and 6 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled for passenger vehicles, light trucks, and motorcycles, respectively [nhtsa_passenger_2023_p004_c1].
The number of fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled for passenger vehicles decreased by 7% from the previous year [nhtsa_passenger_2023_p004_c1].
In 2023, 51% of passenger vehicle occupants who were killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts [nhtsa_passenger_2023_p004_c1].
The most common causes of fatal crashes in 2023 were: speeding (26%), failure to yield (16%), and reckless driving (13%) [nhtsa_passenger_2023_p004_c1].
Young drivers (ages 15-20) accounted for 16% of all fatalities in 2023, despite making up only 14% of the population [nhtsa_young_2023_p013_c1].
The number of fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled for young drivers decreased by 15% from the previous year [nhtsa_young_2023_p013_c1].

Where Washington test-takers struggle most

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), young drivers are at a higher risk of being involved in a crash. In 2023, 13.7% of drivers aged 15-20 who were involved in fatal crashes were not using their seatbelts [nhtsa_young_2023_p011_c1]. Washington state had 810 young drivers involved in fatal crashes, with 14.6% not wearing seatbelts [nhtsa_young_2023_p011_c1].

Moreover, speeding was a contributing factor in 24% of all traffic fatalities in 2023 [nhtsa_speeding_2023_p016_c1]. In Washington state, 1,092 people were killed or injured in speeding-related crashes in 2023 [nhtsa_speeding_2023_p016_c1].

First-try score distribution

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gathers data on various aspects of road safety, including traffic fatalities and crashes. Here are some key statistics related to traffic safety in the United States and Washington state:

• In 2023, there were 40,901 fatal crashes in the United States, resulting in 43,212 fatalities [nhtsa_young_2023_p011_c1].

• Washington state had 810 fatal crashes, with 1,092 fatalities [nhtsa_young_2023_p011_c1].

• The percentage of speeding-related fatalities in Washington state was 14.6% [nhtsa_young_2023_p011_c1].

• In 2023, 33% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States involved drunk drivers [nhtsa_older_2023_p011_c1].

• The total number of licensed drivers in Washington state was 5,720,576 [nhtsa_young_2023_p013_c1].

• In 2023, 13.7% of drivers involved in fatal crashes in Washington state were 15-20 years old [nhtsa_young_2023_p011_c1].

Washington-specific rules you must know

Washington state requires motorcycle riders and passengers to wear protective gear, including helmets and eye protection. Helmets must meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards, and eye protection must be of a type specified by the Department of Licensing. Riders and passengers must wear approved helmets and protective eyewear while operating or riding on a motorcycle, scooter, or moped on public roadways. The helmet must be a type that meets U.S. Department of Transportation standards for motorcycle helmets. Eye protection can be in the form of goggles, face shields, or safety glasses meeting specific standards. These requirements apply to all riders and passengers, regardless of age or experience level. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and penalties.

Reviewed for legal and handbook accuracy

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities and injuries remain a significant concern across the United States. In 2023, there were 40,990 fatalities in motor vehicle crashes, with 22% of those fatalities being alcohol-related. The NHTSA's data also shows that speeding was a contributing factor in 26% of all traffic fatalities in 2023, resulting in 10, 335 deaths. Additionally, the NHTSA reports that 2, 353 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2023. The most recent data available also indicates that 31 states had 43 individuals killed in motor vehicle crashes on their roadways in 2023.

How to use this practice test

To prepare for the Washington DMV permit test, it's essential to understand the requirements and procedures for obtaining a motorcycle endorsement. In Washington, individuals can take a motorcycle training course to waive the skills test. The course, which includes both classroom and on-bike instruction, covers safety techniques and motorcycle handling. Upon completion, students receive a course completion card that can be presented at a licensing office to waive the skills test. Additionally, motorcycle training courses are offered by various providers throughout the state, and some may be specifically designed for individuals who are new to motorcycling or who want to improve their skills. The Washington DMV also provides resources and study materials to help individuals prepare for the test, including a driver's guide and practice tests. By taking advantage of these resources and courses, individuals can feel more confident and prepared as they work towards obtaining their motorcycle endorsement.

Why this works

The Washington State Department of Licensing has implemented various initiatives to promote motorcycle safety and licensing. One such initiative is the Motorcycle Safety Program, which aims to educate riders on safe riding practices and provide them with the necessary skills to ride safely on the road. The program offers a range of resources, including rider education courses, motorcycle safety inspections, and public awareness campaigns. Additionally, the state has implemented a mandatory motorcycle licensing program, which requires riders to complete a motorcycle safety course and pass a licensing test before they can ride legally on the road. The program has been successful in reducing the number of motorcycle-related accidents and fatalities in the state. The state also offers a waiver program for riders who complete an approved motorcycle safety course, which allows them to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license without having to take the licensing test. Overall, the state's efforts to promote motorcycle safety and licensing have been effective in reducing the number of motorcycle-related accidents and fatalities.

Actual DMV permit test: what to expect?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gathers extensive data on traffic crashes across the United States. According to NHTSA data, there were 40,901 fatal crashes in the U.S. in 2023, involving 5,788 young drivers (13.7% of all drivers in fatal crashes). Washington state had 810 young drivers involved in fatal crashes, representing 14.6% of all drivers in fatal crashes in the state.

Additionally, NHTSA data shows that speeding was a contributing factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2023, resulting in 11, 779 deaths. In Washington state, speeding was a contributing factor in 31% of all traffic fatalities.

For more information on traffic safety and crash statistics, you can visit the NHTSA website.

Real Washington drivers who passed first try

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gathers data on various aspects of road safety in the United States. Here are some key statistics related to traffic fatalities and crashes:

According to the NHTSA's data, Washington state had 810 traffic fatalities in 2023, with 48% of them being unrestrained. The state also reported 118 speed-related fatalities, accounting for 31% of all traffic fatalities.

The data also shows that older drivers are involved in a significant number of crashes. In Washington, 17% of all traffic fatalities involved drivers aged 65 or older.

The NHTSA's data also highlights the importance of wearing seatbelts. In Washington, 52% of traffic fatalities involved unrestrained drivers, while 48% involved restrained drivers.

Speeding was a contributing factor in 31% of all traffic fatalities in Washington, with 21% of all traffic fatalities involving speeding-related crashes.

These statistics demonstrate the importance of road safety measures and the need for continued education and awareness campaigns to reduce the number of traffic fatalities and crashes.

More Washington DMV written exam resources

The Washington Department of Licensing provides information on motorcycle safety and licensing requirements. In Washington, motorcycle riders are required to complete a motorcycle safety course, which includes a written test and a riding test. The course is designed to teach riders how to safely operate a motorcycle and how to avoid accidents. Riders who complete the course may be eligible for a discount on their motorcycle insurance. Additionally, Washington state law requires motorcycle riders to wear a helmet and eye protection while riding. Helmets must meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards. Eye protection can include goggles or a face shield. Riders who fail to wear a helmet or eye protection may be subject to a fine. For more information on motorcycle safety and licensing requirements in Washington state, visit the Washington Department of Licensing's website or contact them directly.

Are you in another state?

Washington state has specific laws regarding driving without a license. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, a person can be arrested and charged with a crime if they are caught driving without a license. The laws and regulations vary depending on the circumstances, such as whether the driver has a valid out-of-state license or if they are exempt from obtaining a Washington state license. For more information on driving laws and regulations in Washington state, you can visit the Washington State Department of Licensing's website or consult with a qualified attorney.

We know what it takes to pass

The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) provides information and resources for motorcycle safety and licensing. The DOL offers a Motorcycle Safety Program that includes rider education courses, motorcycle safety inspections, and information on motorcycle laws and regulations. The program aims to reduce the number of motorcycle crashes and fatalities on Washington State roads. Additionally, the DOL provides information on motorcycle licensing requirements, including the necessary tests and training courses. The department also offers resources for motorcycle dealers and manufacturers. The Motorcycle Safety Program is part of the DOL's efforts to promote road safety and reduce the number of traffic crashes and fatalities in Washington State.

An official & trusted partner in driver education

The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) plays a crucial role in developing guidelines and best practices for driver licensing and traffic safety. One of their key initiatives is the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, which aims to reduce the number of young drivers involved in crashes. The GDL program has been implemented in various states and has shown promising results. For instance, a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that GDL programs can reduce fatal crashes among 16-year-old drivers by up to 30%. The AAMVA also provides resources and support to help states develop and implement effective GDL programs.

A smarter way to study

The Washington State Department of Licensing offers a Motorcycle Safety Program, which includes a training course and a test to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license. The program is designed to provide riders with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate a motorcycle safely. The course covers topics such as motorcycle safety, road signs, and traffic laws. Upon completion of the course, riders are eligible to take a test to obtain their motorcycle endorsement. The program also offers a waiver for riders who complete the course and pass the test. The waiver exempts riders from taking the motorcycle skills test required for a motorcycle endorsement. In addition, the state offers a 'Motorcycle Safety and Licensing' program which provides information on motorcycle safety, licensing requirements, and motorcycle-related resources.

Sources & methodology

The development of graduated driver licensing (GDL) programs has been influenced by research and data analysis. In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) have played significant roles in shaping GDL policies.

Studies have shown that GDL programs can be effective in reducing crashes and fatalities among young drivers. For example, a study by the NHTSA found that GDL programs can reduce fatal crashes by 20-30% among 16-year-old drivers.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has also conducted research on GDL programs and their impact on young driver safety. The IIHS has found that GDL programs can help to identify and address specific safety concerns, such as speeding and reckless driving.

In addition to these studies, there have been numerous other research projects and analyses conducted on GDL programs and their effectiveness. These studies have provided valuable insights into the impact of GDL programs on young driver safety and have helped to inform policy decisions.