How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Washington?

You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit in Washington. You must hold your permit for at least 6 months before moving to the next stage.

What are the restrictions for an intermediate license in Washington?

Washington intermediate license holders must be at least 16 years old. There is a curfew from 1:00 AM to 5:00 AM.

When can you get a full unrestricted license in Washington?

In Washington, you can get a full unrestricted driver's license at age 18.

Washington Graduated Driver License (GDL) Laws

Last verified: 2026-03

Washington uses a graduated driver license (GDL) system to help new drivers build skills in stages. Here is a breakdown of each stage, the requirements, and the restrictions you need to know.

Stage 1

Learner's Permit

Minimum age

Stage 2

Intermediate License

Minimum age

Stage 3

Full License

Minimum age

Stage 1: Learner's Permit

Minimum age: 15
Holding period: 6 months
Supervised driving hours: 50 hours
Nighttime driving hours: 10 hours
Supervisor minimum age: 21 years old

Stage 2: Intermediate (Provisional) License

Minimum age: 16
Curfew hours: 1:00 AM to 5:00 AM
Passenger exceptions: No non-family passengers under 20 for first 6 months; up to 3 passengers under 20 months 6-12. Family members exempt.
Cell phone use banned: Yes

Stage 3: Full Unrestricted License

Minimum age for full license

At this age, all GDL restrictions are removed and you can drive without limits on passengers, curfew, or supervision.

Penalties for GDL Violations

Violations can result in fines and license suspension; traffic infractions may extend GDL restrictions

Washington-Specific Information

Washington has a phased passenger approach similar to Oregon. Cell phone ban applies to learner permit and intermediate license holders. Exceptions to curfew for work and emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

A graduated driver license (GDL) is a system that lets new drivers in Washington gain experience in stages. You start with a learner's permit, move to an intermediate license, and then earn a full unrestricted license. Each stage has its own rules and restrictions.

You can get your learner's permit in Washington at age 15. You must hold your permit for at least 6 months before moving to the intermediate license stage.

During the intermediate license stage, Washington restricts driving between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM. This curfew is in place until you get your full unrestricted license at age 18.

You can get your full unrestricted driver's license in Washington at age 18. At that point, all GDL restrictions on curfew, passengers, and supervision are removed.

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This information is based on nonprofit-research sources. Requirements can change. Visit your state's official DMV website for the most current information.