WA Permit practice Updated for 2026

Washington DOL Practice Test

Your Washington test at a glance

Car learner knowledge exam

Knowledge test

Questions
40
Correct to pass
32
Mistakes allowed
8
Sources & exam details
  • Eight mistakes is derived from 40 minus 32; the reviewed test page gives counts rather than a numeric passing percentage.
  • Availability of a particular language must be confirmed with the testing location.
  • Age 15.5 applies to obtaining a permit by taking the knowledge exam without an approved driver-training course; students in driver training may qualify for a permit at 15 without that exam.
Practice tests
15
Cost
FreeNo account needed

Independent practice with answer explanations. Read it alongside the state driver handbook.

Washington Safety Practice 1

Practice mode
Question 1 of 10Vehicle familiarization
  1. 1. You borrow a car whose lights and wiper controls differ from yours. When should you learn how those controls work?
  2. 2. A new warning indicator appears before a trip, but the car still seems to drive normally. What is the sensible next step?
  3. 3. Before departure, you clear a small opening in the windshield but leave frost on the side and rear windows. What is still needed?
  4. 4. An adult passenger has placed the shoulder belt behind their back while leaving the lap belt buckled. Is that the intended use of the belt?
  5. 5. During a strong forward-moving slowdown, where does the vehicle's load tend to shift?
  6. 6. Before entering a parked car, you notice that children have been playing nearby. What should be part of your departure preparation?
  7. 7. An allergy medicine is sold without a prescription. Does that fact alone establish that it cannot impair driving?
  8. 8. Two routes take similar driving time, but only one plan includes realistic rest opportunities. Which preparation better supports a long trip?
  9. 9. You keep looking at an animated roadside advertisement and miss a change in traffic ahead. What does this show about distraction?
  10. 10. Before turning across a bicycle lane, you have checked traffic ahead. What still needs attention?

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Your Washington study guide

Use this Washington permit practice guide to choose a starting point and compare the available study formats. Its leading topic groups are hazards, weather & emergencies, licensing & laws and speed, space & following distance; these describe this practice selection, not the agency’s published test weighting. Read each situation before choosing an answer, then use the explanation and source link to understand the rule behind it. When an answer surprises you, return to that part of the handbook rather than memorizing the position of the correct choice. Review your missed questions before starting another test. These independent exercises support handbook study; they are not the licensing examination or a guarantee of passing.

Before you apply

Washington licensing essentials

From DOL. Check the requirements for your age and application.

Sources checked

Can I get a Washington learner permit at 15?

You may qualify at 15 when enrolled in approved driver training. Without that enrollment, you must be at least 15 and a half and pass the knowledge test. Taking the no-course route does not remove the driver-training requirement for a license before age 18.

Washington DOL: Learner Permit (opens in a new tab)

How do I obtain a Washington permit through driver training?

Give your Washington driver-license number to the approved driving school so it can report your enrollment. You may apply for the learner permit no earlier than 10 days before the course begins. Applicants younger than 18 also need permission from a parent or guardian.

Washington DOL: Learner Permit (opens in a new tab)

Who must supervise a Washington learner-permit holder?

You must practice with a licensed driver who has at least five years of driving experience. Keep your learner permit with you while driving. Permit holders may not use a phone or mobile device while driving, except to call 911 in an emergency.

Washington DOL: Learner Permit (opens in a new tab)

Check the agency for updates before you apply.

Washington permit test: frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Washington permit test?

The Washington knowledge test given by Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) has 40 questions. To pass you need 32 of 40 correct (80%).

  • Source: dol.wa.gov
Can I get a Washington learner permit at 15?

You may qualify at 15 when enrolled in approved driver training. Without that enrollment, you must be at least 15 and a half and pass the knowledge test. Taking the no-course route does not remove the driver-training requirement for a license before age 18.

  • Source: dol.wa.gov
Who gives the Washington permit knowledge test?

The knowledge test is given by Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). Check its website for current locations, fees and appointment rules before you go.

  • Source: dol.wa.gov
How do I obtain a Washington permit through driver training?

Give your Washington driver-license number to the approved driving school so it can report your enrollment. You may apply for the learner permit no earlier than 10 days before the course begins. Applicants younger than 18 also need permission from a parent or guardian.

  • Source: dol.wa.gov
Who must supervise a Washington learner-permit holder?

You must practice with a licensed driver who has at least five years of driving experience. Keep your learner permit with you while driving. Permit holders may not use a phone or mobile device while driving, except to call 911 in an emergency.

  • Source: dol.wa.gov

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