How long do new Washington residents have to get a Washington driver license?

The Washington Department of Licensing says you have 30 days after moving to Washington to get your driver license.

By · checked · FAQ answer · Washington · Driver licenses · Moving to a new state · Appointments · updated November 10, 2026

Within 30 days. Washington's Department of Licensing says new residents have 30 days after moving to get a Washington driver license. You need an appointment to visit a licensing office, and depending on where you are moving from, you may have to take a driver test.

At the office you get a temporary license that lets you drive for 45 days; DOL notes it probably won't work as ID. Applicants under 18 follow separate rules. Fee amounts are on DOL's fees page. Confirm with DOL before your visit.

Sources · checked October 29, 2026

We wrote this summary ourselves from the official pages above on the date shown. Agencies change rules without notice: the official page always wins. DMV Decoded is independent and not a government agency.

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