How Au Pairs Can Get a Local Driver's License - and What to Know Before You Do

Getting a License

Some host families are finding that even though they thought (or were told) that a local license was important, or cheaper, for their (mandatory) car insurance – that if you have not been in our country very long, their rates might not change at all. Please ask your host family to check with their auto insurance company before you apply for a local license – it might save you both money and time.

Once you are ready to start, review the steps, required documents and location links below, all found through the WA State Department of Licensing website.

PRE-APPLY online, or APPLY in person at a license office below. Bring: International Driving License, Passport & I-94 print-out, Social Security card (or number) and your host family’s address. Cost: $35 to apply + $45 for License.
STUDY the WA State Driver’s guide (available in English, Spanish & Asian languages) and take an online practice test of our road rules.
Find a testing location and take KNOWLEDGE (written) TEST.
Follow links and make appointment for off-site DRIVING TEST. Cost: $ changes by site.
Bring proof of Car Insurance and a working vehicle to your driving appointment.

Fees are on the DOL website. Current overall Cost is: $80 (to DOL) + $30-60 extra (paid to driving test site, if not DOL). Identification (ID) card alone is: $45. How to pay: online or in person; WA State DOL accepts cash, checks, MasterCard & American Express credit cards and some Visa credit/debit cards.

DOL locations are listed online and on the next page. Listing of other TESTING SITES is available online.

Note: Only two DOL sites offer the driving & written tests with your payments (Lynnwood & North Bend). Most offices are less busy weekday mornings and Wednesdays through Fridays. Apply ahead online and bring your DOL confirmation code with you to office (or testing site).

Downtown Seattle Driver’s License Office

205 Spring St / Seattle, WA 98104

Phone: 206.464.6845 Web link

Hours: M-F 8:30-4:30, (excepting Thurs 9:30-4:30)

Services: Apply (for License or ID) only