Eager to get your driver’s license in Washington State? The first step is passing the Washington State knowledge test. This test makes sure you understand Washington’s traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
This guide will walk you through what to expect on the test, how to prepare, and why passing is so important for getting your license through Washington’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program.
What is a Washington State learner’s permit?
The Washington State learner’s permit allows you to practice driving before you get your full driver’s license.
Requirements for applying
To apply for a learner’s permit, you’ll need to:
- Be at least 15 1/2 years old (or 15 if you’re enrolled in a driver training course)
- Provide your Social Security number, proof of where you live, and proof of your identity
If you’re under 18, you’ll also need your parent or guardian to authorize your permit, and you’ll have to prove your relationship to that adult.
Restrictions and regulations
When you’re driving with a learner’s permit, you must:
- Be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has at least five years of driving experience
- Refrain from using any mobile device while driving
Once you turn 16 and have met other requirements, you can take the road test.
How to prepare for the Washington State knowledge test
You’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to study and practice before you take the knowledge test. Here are some tools and topics to focus on as you prepare:
Washington Driver’s Manual
Read through the official Washington Driver’s Manual carefully, paying special attention to traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving techniques.
Practice tests and resources
Take advantage of the many free online practice tests that are updated for 2025. The Washington DOL (Department of Licensing) also offers a permit practice test online.
You might also want to use a “cheat sheet”-style practice test, since these frequently have interactive features like hints and the option to eliminate half the possible answers.
If you really want to feel prepared, try out simulators that mimic the conditions you’ll experience when you take the real test.
Key topics
Make sure you understand these topics:
- Traffic laws
- Road signs and traffic signals
- Safe driving practices
- Driving under the influence
- Accident procedures
What to Expect on the Day of the Test
So, you’ve studied and prepped, and now it’s test day. Here’s what you can expect when you arrive.
Test Format and Scoring
The WA knowledge test is made up of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass, you’ll need to answer at least 32 questions correctly, which works out to an 80% passing score. The test has to be taken in person at a Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) office.
Languages Offered
The WA knowledge test is currently offered in English, Spanish, Hindi, and Vietnamese.
Immediate Feedback
One thing that’s helpful is that some of the practice tests available offer immediate feedback, which can really help you lock in the information.
Conclusion
Want to pass the Washington State knowledge test? The key is preparation. Study the driver’s guide and take practice tests.
Make sure you understand the rules and limits that come with a learner’s permit. Take the time to learn about each step of the state’s graduated driver’s license (GDL) program.
If you follow these tips, you’ll have a much better chance of passing the knowledge test and becoming a safe driver.