RCW 46.20.055: Instruction permit.

(1) Driver's instruction permit . The department may issue a driver's instruction permit online or in person with or without a photograph to an applicant who has successfully passed all parts of the examination other than the driving test, provided the information required by RCW 46.20.091 , paid an application fee of $25 prior to January 1, 2026, and $35 on or after January 1, 2026, and meets the following requirements: (a) Is at least 15.5 years of age; or (b) Is at least 15 years of age and: (i) Has submitted a proper application; and (ii) Is enrolled in a driver training education course offered as part of a traffic safety education program authorized by the office of the superintendent of public instruction and certified under chapter 28A.220 RCW or offered by a driver training school licensed and inspected by the department of licensing under chapter 46.82 RCW, that includes practice driving. (2) Waiver of written examination for instruction permit . The department may waive the written examination, if, at the time of application, an applicant is enrolled in a driver training education course as defined in RCW 46.82.280 or 28A.220.020 . The department may require proof of registration in such a course as it deems necessary. (3) Effect of instruction permit . A person holding a driver's instruction permit may drive a motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, upon the public highways if: (a) The person has immediate possession of the permit; (b) The person is not using a wireless communications device, unless the person is using the device to report illegal activity, summon medical or other emergency help, or prevent injury to a person or property; and (c) A driver training education course instructor who meets the qualifications of chapter 46.82 or 28A.220 RCW, or a licensed driver with at least five years of driving experience, occupies the seat beside the driver. (4) Term of instruction permit . A driver's instruction permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. (a) The department may issue one additional one-year permit. (b) The department may issue a third driver's instruction permit if it finds after an investigation that the permittee is diligently seeking to improve driving proficiency. (c) A person applying for an additional instruction permit must submit the application to the department and pay an application fee of $25 for each issuance.