Photo: dumitru bumbu, Pexels
The Washington knowledge test has 40 multiple-choice questions on the Washington Driver Guide, and DOL states you need 32 correct (80%) to pass. You can take it at a DOL office or, very commonly, at a licensed driver training school or school district program. This guide covers what the test covers, where to take it, what it costs and what happens if you fail.
Key facts (Washington, as of November 2026)
- 40 questions, 32 correct to pass (DOL).
- Pass is valid for 2 years (DOL).
- Given by DOL, licensed driver training schools and school district traffic safety programs (RCW 46.20.120).
- Fee: set by the testing location.
- Can be waived for your permit if you are enrolled in an approved driver training course (RCW 46.20.055).
How many questions are on the Washington knowledge test?
40. The test grew from 25 to 40 questions in August 2016, when Washington aligned its driver training curriculum, the Driver Guide and the test for the first time, according to the Washington State Transportation Commission. You need 32 right. That means you can miss no more than 8.
What the questions focus on
All questions come from the Washington Driver Guide. When the test was redesigned, the state added questions on the leading causes of serious crashes:
- Distracted driving, including phone use (see Washington’s E-DUI law).
- Impairment from alcohol, prescription drugs, marijuana and other drugs.
- Speed.
- Hazard awareness, using short scenario questions.
A sample scenario question published by the Commission described a student planning to drive across the state late at night. The correct answer was to leave the next morning after a good night’s sleep, not to drink coffee or take a nap first. Expect questions that test judgment, not just recall.
Also study the rules every Washington driver must know: right of way, signs, signals and markings, lane use, passing, parking and sharing the road. For national refreshers see road signs by shape and color, traffic signals and pavement markings.
Where to take the knowledge test in Washington
Under RCW 46.20.120, these can give the knowledge portion of the exam:
- Driver training schools licensed by DOL.
- School districts that run a traffic safety education program.
- DOL. In regions where schools provide enough testing, DOL must still offer exams by appointment to applicants 18 and older in at least one licensing office.
Most teens test through their driver training school. Adults often find a school or approved testing location easier to book too.
Do I need to pass the test before my permit?
Usually yes. Under RCW 46.20.055, a permit goes to an applicant who has passed all parts of the exam except the drive test. However, DOL may waive the written test for the permit if you are enrolled in an approved driver training course. In that case you still pass the knowledge test before your license.
What it costs
DOL says the knowledge test fee varies by location, so ask your school or testing site. Separately, the permit application fee in state law is $35 (from January 1, 2026). See the fee table in the Washington learning to drive guide.
If you fail
DOL says there may be a waiting period before you can retest. Ask your testing location how long, then use the time to reread the chapters you struggled with.
A study plan that works
- Read the Washington Driver Guide once, start to finish.
- Reread the alcohol, drugs and distraction sections. They carry extra weight since 2016.
- Learn the numbers for the teen rules: passenger limits, the 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. limit, 50 hours with 10 at night (see intermediate rules).
- Take DOL’s online practice test.
- For each scenario question, ask which answer is the safest legal choice.
Common questions
How many can I miss on the Washington permit test?
8. You need 32 of 40 correct.
Can I take the Washington knowledge test online at home?
DOL describes the permit knowledge test as taken in person at an approved testing location. Check with DOL or your school for current options.
How long is my passing score good for?
DOL states a passing knowledge test score is valid for 2 years.
Is the test the same at a driving school as at DOL?
Schools give the same state knowledge exam portion under RCW 46.20.120. Fees and scheduling differ by location.
Do adults take the same test?
Yes. The knowledge test is the same for every new driver.
Next steps: driver training and the 50-hour log, the drive test. Compare other states: US permit test by state.
Sources
- Washington State Legislature, “RCW 46.20.120 Examinations, waiver, fees” (app.leg.wa.gov)
- Washington State Legislature, “RCW 46.20.055 Instruction permit” (app.leg.wa.gov)
- Washington State Transportation Commission, “Driver Licensing Exam Update” (October 2016) (wstc.wa.gov)