Driving news: Washington
Washington will require driver training at 18 from 2027
Today an 18-year-old can get a first Washington driver license by passing the knowledge and drive tests, without a driver training course. From January 1, 2027, an applicant aged 18 needs approved driver training too, and the rule adds one age each year until it covers ages 18 to 21 in 2030.
- Jan. 1, 2027age 18 added
- 2028 to 203019, then 20, then 21
- 22 and oldernot covered
Who it covers
People who get their first Washington driver license as young adults. In 2027 that is applicants aged 18, which means those born in 2009 or later.
The schedule
Age 18 from January 1, 2027; age 19 from 2028; age 20 from 2029; and from 2030, every applicant aged 18 to 21. Applicants aged 22 and older are not part of the requirement.
What stays the same
A license before 18 already takes approved driver training, and that does not change. The knowledge test and the drive test stay. Separately, since November 1, 2026, first-time applicants under 25 also finish the free online work-zone and first-responder course.
What to do now
If you will turn 18 and apply in 2027 or later, plan a driver training course before the license, and check the Department of Licensing's pages for the steps that apply to your age and year.
Related Road to Permit guides
- Washington adult license
- Washington permit requirements
- Washington teen permit
- Washington's under-25 safety course
Official sources
- RCW 46.20.1191 — Driver training requirement
- Washington DOL — Driver License Ages 18+
- Washington DOL — Work Zone and First Responder Course
Independent study resource. Road to Permit is not affiliated with or endorsed by any DMV, DPS, FLHSMV or other government agency. Official state sources control if information changes.