WA State Driving Knowledge Test

Walk-in testing available. No appointment needed!

  • What You Need to Know

    • Walk-in testing: Mon-Fri 10 AM-4:30 PM, Sat 10 AM-2:30 PM
    • 40 questions, need 80% (32/40) to pass
    • $30 first attempt, $20 for second test on the same day
    • Driver's Ed students only pay $15
    • You will be given your score immediately and results can be found in your License Express account
    • Bring: WDL number, valid photo ID, and payment
Driver’s license testing instructions and materials display.
Washington Driver Guide binder on a table.

WA Driver's License Written Test
Washington State Knowledge Test Overview

What is the Washington Knowledge Test?

The Washington State Knowledge Test is your first step toward getting your driver's license. It's a computer-based test that covers Washington traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

Test Format

  • 40 multiple-choice questions

  • Questions randomly selected from a pool of 200

  • Must score 80% or higher (32 out of 40 correct)

  • Untimed - take as long as you need

  • Available in multiple languages

  • Instant results

What Does it Cover?

  • Traffic Signs: Recognition and meaning of all WA road signs

  • Traffic Laws: Speed limits, right-of-way rules, lane usage

  • Safe Driving: Following distance, passing, turning, parking

  • Special Situations: School zones, railroad crossings, emergency vehicles

  • Adverse Conditions: Driving in rain, fog, ice

  • Violations & Penalties: DUI laws, point system, license suspension

Daily Testing Cutoff Times
Find your nearest location and walk-in hours.

Kennewick Location

Walk-In Testing Hours

Mon - Fri
Sat
Sun
Closed

Richland Location

Photo Coming Soon

Walk-In Testing Hours

Mon - Fri
Sat
Sun
Closed

Arrive Early! Testing is first-come, first-served. During busy times (after school, Saturdays), arrive 30-60 minutes before closing to ensure you get tested that day.

Driver License Knowledge Test Fees
Washington State Knowledge Test Cost at Premier

Test Taker Price Per Attempt
Premier Driver's Ed Students$15 (discounted rate + 2 FREE attempts included in tuition)
Walk-In Testing Available$30 per attempt

Unlimited Attempts: You can retake the test as many times as needed, although we do not recommend retesting the same day if your score is below 70%.

How to prepare for Written Driving Test
WA Knowledge Test Study Guide & Prep Resources

Free Study Resources

Washington State provides free study materials. We strongly recommend studying before attempting the test!

Premier's 85-Question Practice Test

The best place to start. This full-length practice test is built specifically to prepare you for the knowledge test you'll take at our location. Unlike the real test, you can receive results per individual question. 

Take the free practice test →

WA State Driver Guide

The official DOL handbook covering every topic on the knowledge test, available as a free PDF download in 14 languages.

Download at dol.wa.gov →

DOL Official Practice Test

A free 5-question sample directly from the DOL. Quick and official, but not a substitute for full-length practice.

Try it at dol.wa.gov →

Road Signs

All Washington State road signs are covered in Chapter 3 of the Driver Guide linked above. No separate resource needed — it's all in there.

what to bring
Check this list before you leave home.

  • WDL Number: From your License Express account (starts with "WDL")

  • Valid Photo ID: State ID, passport, OR birth certificate

  • Parent/Guardian ID: If you're under 18 and using birth certificate

  • Payment: $30 cash or card ($15 for driver's ed students)

Washington Driver Guide with pen.

WA Knowledge Test Process
Here's what happens on test day.

1

Arrive During Testing Hours

Walk in anytime between 10 AM and 4:30 PM (Mon-Fri) or 10 AM and 2:30 PM (Saturday). No appointment needed!

2

Check In at Front Desk

Provide your WDL number and photo ID. Our staff will verify your information and collect payment.

3

Get Seated at a Testing Computer

If all stations are full, you may have a short wait. We'll call you when a computer is available. You'll log in with your License Express username and password.

4

Take the Test

40 questions on screen. Take your time - there's no time limit. You can skip questions and come back to them.

5

Get Immediate Results

The system shows your score instantly. Pass = 80% or higher (32/40 correct).

6

Results Entered into DOL Database

If you pass your test with a qualifying score, you can obtain your permit from the DOL or set an appointment with us to take the behind-the-wheel skills test.

Pass on Your First Try? Bring your required documents to a DOL office within the next few days to get your instruction permit ($25 DOL fee).

Washington State Knowledge Test FAQ
Here’s everything people ask before they walk-in to test.

Do I need an appointment to take the knowledge test at Premier Driving School?

No appointment is needed. Walk in during testing hours: Monday–Friday 10:00 AM–4:30 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM–2:30 PM. The last knowledge test of the day must be started by 4:30 PM on weekdays and 2:30 PM on Saturdays.

How much does the Washington knowledge test cost?
What do I need to bring to the knowledge test?
How many questions are on the Washington knowledge test, and what score do I need to pass?
What should I study before taking the Washington knowledge test?
What happens after I pass the knowledge test?
Is the knowledge test the same as the written test or permit test?