Washington Permit Test Practice 2026
The Washington learner’s permit test runs 40 questions and asks for 80% to pass. Below: 6 sample questions and a Washington cheat sheet you can save. DMV Ready has unlimited practice in the same format, no signup.
What’s on the Washington permit test?
The Washington permit test runs 40 questions. Passing takes 80%, which works out to about 32 correct answers. Topics span the usual material - signs, signals, right of way, alcohol and drug rules - plus the Washington-specific items the state handbook adds. Washington’s DOL uses a 25-question test at 80% pass; rain, fog, and reduced-visibility scenarios show up.
Most items are recall - sign meanings, right of way at common intersections, posted-speed rules. The rest are scenario questions: a situation, three options, you pick the safest one.
If you study generic DMV practice, you’ll be missing the Washington-specific section the test draws from. The handbook has rules unique to Washington; practicing on Washington-specific questions is the fix.
Sample questions (free, no signup)
Here are 6 practice questions in the Washington format. Tap each to reveal the answer and the explanation. Want unlimited? Get the app.
Question 1: If you witness a crash in Washington, what is your primary responsibility?
- Post about it on social media immediately
- Drive past quickly to avoid blocking traffic
- Call 911 and provide assistance if safe to do so
Correct answer: Call 911 and provide assistance if safe to do so
Why: Witnesses should call 911 to report the crash and provide assistance if it is safe to do so. Getting emergency services to the scene quickly can save lives.
💡 Memory tip: 911 = emergency call; assist if safe, don’t just drive by.
Question 2: If you are NOT enrolling in a driver training course, what is the earliest age you can take the knowledge exam for your instruction permit in Washington?
- 15½ years old
- 16 years old
- 15 years old
Correct answer: 15½ years old
Why: In Washington, if you are not enrolled in a driver training course, you must be at least 15½ years old to take the knowledge exam for your instruction permit.
💡 Memory tip: Half past 15 (15½): take WA knowledge exam without driver’s ed.
Question 3: Before driving in winter conditions in Washington, what must you do with snow, ice, or frost on your vehicle?
- Clear enough to see through the windshield
- Clear only the windshield and driver’s side window
- Completely clear it from all windows
Correct answer: Completely clear it from all windows
Why: You must completely clear snow, ice, or frost from all windows before driving. This ensures you have full visibility from all angles, which is critical for safe driving.
💡 Memory tip: Clear all windows for 360-degree visibility before driving.
Question 4: What is required when transporting animals in Washington?
- Animals are only allowed in the trunk or cargo area
- Animals must be properly secured and not interfere with driving
- All animals must be in crates at all times
Correct answer: Animals must be properly secured and not interfere with driving
Why: According to the transporting section (4.19) of the WA Driver’s Manual, when transporting animals, they must be properly secured in a manner that prevents them from interfering with the driver’s ability to safely operate the vehicle.
💡 Memory tip: Secure the fur: properly secured, zero interference with driving.
Question 5: During what hours is a Washington intermediate driver license holder restricted from driving in the first 6 months?
- Between midnight and 6 a.m.
- Between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.
- Between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
Correct answer: Between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
Why: In Washington, intermediate driver license (IDL) holders are restricted from driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. during the first 12 months of holding the IDL, unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or a licensed driver age 25 or older. Note: The nighttime driving restriction applies for the full first 12 months, not just the first 6 months.
💡 Memory tip: 1 a.m. to 5 a.m.: IDL stays parked. No driving.
Question 6: In Washington, what type of car seat must a 3-year-old child use?
- A booster seat
- A car seat with a rear- or forward-facing harness
- A rear-facing car seat only
Correct answer: A car seat with a rear- or forward-facing harness
Why: Washington law requires children ages 2 to 4 years to ride in a car seat with a rear- or forward-facing harness. A 3-year-old falls within this age range and must use this type of restraint system.
💡 Memory tip: Age 3? Harness car seat. Rear or forward-facing, not a booster.
Washington-specific rules to know
Eight items pulled from the Washington handbook that we keep seeing on the test. Quick read; high payoff.
- Lane control - HOV lanes are designated as High Occupancy Vehicle or carpool lanes, which are reserved for vehicles carrying multiple passengers to encourage carpooling and reduce traffic congestion.
- Driving rule - To determine your lane position, check that the center of your hood is in line with lane markings.
- Driving rule - The responsibility to protect Washington’s environment and avoid littering on roadways is specifically addressed, highlighting the importance of reducing litter and its environmental impact.
- Driving rule - Children under age 13 should never ride in the front seat because they could be seriously injured or killed if an airbag deploys.
- Driving rule - When turning your head to look and check your blind zones, you should keep the steering wheel straight.
- Brakes - Antilock braking systems (ABS) are a distinct braking technology that requires drivers to maintain steady pressure rather than pumping the brakes, which differs from the technique used with…
- Tires - tire tread should not be less than 2/32 of an inch.
- Driving rule - Polydrug use refers to the dangerous practice of using multiple substances that can compound impairment effects and significantly reduce driving ability.
How to schedule your Washington permit test
You can typically schedule your Washington permit test online through the official Washington DMV / motor-vehicle agency website. Bring proof of identity, residency, and (if under 18) the required parent/guardian documentation. Fees vary by jurisdiction - check your local DMV office for current pricing. Some states require completion of driver’s education before testing.
This page references rules from the Washington Driver’s Handbook. We are not affiliated with the Washington DMV.
Studying in a neighboring state?
Each state’s exam is different. If you’re studying for a different state, here are nearby ones: Oregon permit test practice, Idaho permit test practice.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the Washington permit test?
The Washington DMV permit test has 40 questions. You need to answer at least 80% correctly to pass.
What is the passing score for the Washington permit test?
You need 80% to pass - that’s roughly 32 out of 40 questions correct.
How old do I have to be to take the Washington permit test?
The minimum age in Washington is 15. Check your local DMV office for any additional requirements like a parent’s signature or driver’s education enrollment.
Can I retake the Washington permit test if I fail?
Yes. Most Washington DMV offices let you retake the test, often after a short waiting period. Some locations charge a small re-test fee. Check your local DMV office for the exact rules.
Is the DMV Ready app good for Washington?
DMV Ready matches the Washington format exactly: 40 questions, 80% to pass, content from the Washington driver handbook. State-specific questions are tagged for Washington so you practice what’s on your test.
Practice unlimited Washington questions in DMV Ready
Same format as Washington: 40 questions per practice exam, 80% pass mark. Free to start; Premium $4.99/mo or $14.99 once.
Practice in another state
Each state writes its own permit test - same general rules, different specific questions. Pick yours: