Washington State Driver Guide

Overview

• Washington residents need a valid driver license to operate vehicles on public roads.
• New residents must obtain a license within 30 days.
• Nonresidents can drive with a valid license from their home state, province, or country.

Warning and Regulatory Signs

• Warning signs: Indicate winding roads, merging traffic, and other hazards.
• Regulatory signs: Indicate speed limits, no U-turns, and other rules.

Traffic Rules and Signals

• Obey traffic signals: green means go, yellow means caution, red means stop.
• Yield to pedestrians, especially those with disabilities or guide dogs.

Child Restraint and Seat Belts

• Infants and young children must use appropriate car seats.
• Booster seats are required until the child is tall enough for seat belts.
• Seat belts must be worn by all passengers.

Driving Under Influence (DUI)

• Strict penalties for DUI, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
• DUI includes driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or drugs.

Insurance and Vehicle Maintenance

• Liability insurance is required for all registered vehicles.
• Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for safety and efficiency.

Road Conditions and Safe Driving

• Adjust speed according to road conditions: rain, snow, slippery roads.
• Keep a safe following distance, especially on highways.
• Be aware of other road users, including bicyclists and motorcyclists.

Special Driving Situations

• Give extra space to work zones and emergency vehicles.
• Know how to handle vehicle malfunctions like brake failure or skids.

Licensing Process

• Getting Your License: Includes passing knowledge and driving tests.
• Types of Licenses: Standard, Enhanced, Motorcycle, Commercial.

Online Services

• Renew licenses, update addresses, and purchase driving records online.

Emergencies and Collisions

• Know how to respond to vehicle malfunctions.
• First steps in case of a collision include moving vehicles off the road if possible and exchanging information with other drivers involved.

Important Contacts

• For child passenger safety, contact Washington Traffic Safety Commission or Safe Kids Washington.
• Visit the Department of Licensing website for more details and resources.