How to Renew Your Washington Driver’s License: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Part of being a responsible, law-abiding driver in any state is renewing your driver’s license on time. By keeping your license up to date, you can drive without worrying about expired license penalties like fines and jail time.
Luckily, the process to renew your license in Washington State is simple. Use this guide to complete your Washinton driver's license renewal with ease.
Eligibility Requirements for Washington Driver's License Renewal
There are several options for completing the Washington State driver's license renewal process. Online renewal is one method, but you may also be eligible to renew by mail, by phone, or in person based on eligibility requirements.
Online
You must be younger than 70 years old to complete your Washington driver's license renewal online. Also, you’re only eligible for these online services if you renewed your license in person the last time.
By mail
If you receive a letter from the Washington State Department of Licensing about your license renewal, you are eligible for renewal by mail.
By phone
If you are younger than 70 years old and completed your last license renewal in person, you may be able to renew your license over the phone. You will need a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee when you call 360-902-3900.
In person
If you meet any of the following criteria, you must renew your license in person:
- You are over 70 years old.
- You need a new license photo taken.
- You need to complete the vision screening.
- You renewed your license online the last time it expired.
Required Documents for Washington Driver's License Renewal
To renew your license, you’ll need the following documents:
- Your current driver’s license
- Proof of identity (such as your birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of Washington residency (such as a utility bill or bank statement with your Washington address)
You will also need some form of payment to cover the renewal fee.
Renewal Fees and Payment Options
Standard licenses in Washington cost $9 per year upon renewal, which is $55 for a six-year renewal or $73 for an eight-year renewal. If you have endorsements or are upgrading to an enhanced driver's license (EDL), your renewal fee may be higher.
Your payment options are:
- Cash
- Check (payable to "Department of Licensing")
- Credit card
- Debit card
Different licensing offices accept different credit and debit cards, so check to make sure the office you’re going to accepts your preferred payment option. You cannot pay with a Discover card online, but you can pay with your checking account information. Online credit card transactions are subject to an additional 3% fee.
Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing Your License in Washington
To renew your Washington license online, follow these steps:
- Go to the Washington State Department of Licensing Online Services website.
- Make sure you’re connected to a printer and have your payment method, driver’s license, and Social Security number available (if applicable).
- Verify the information on your WA license, including your first and last name, date of birth, and WA license number.
- Choose six or eight years for your renewal and pay the applicable fee.
- Print your temporary license and wait for your new license to arrive in the mail.
If you choose in-person renewal or renewal by mail or phone, the information you need to provide is very similar.
Common Questions About Washington Driver's License Renewal
It’s normal for questions or concerns to pop up while you’re renewing your license. For example, you may wonder what to do about driver's license renewal in Washington State if you’re not currently in Washington and an in-person renewal isn’t feasible. The good news is that you can apply for a one-year extension if your license expires while you’re out of state.
Another common question is how long it will take for your new license to arrive if you renew online. The Washington DOL says new licenses arrive within two to four weeks of online renewal. If you still don’t have yours after 30 days, call (360) 902-3900.
Tips for a Smooth Washington Driver's License Renewal
To make sure your driver’s license renewal in Washington State goes smoothly, try these tips:
- Gather all the documents you need ahead of time so you don’t have to scramble for them during the renewal process.
- Keep your address up to date with the Department of Licensing if you move within Washington state.
- Choose online renewal if you’re eligible so you can complete the process at your convenience.
- If you’re going to renew in person, make an appointment to minimize your wait time.
Renew Your License Today — Get the Best Car Insurance for Washington Drivers!
Keeping your license up to date is just one of your responsibilities as a driver. You also need to meet Washington’s car insurance requirements. Finding great, affordable car insurance in Washington State doesn’t have to be a miserable process, though.
With EverQuote, you can compare your insurance options by ZIP code and driver profile with just a few clicks. Get your free custom insurance comparison today to find the right insurance at the right price.