WA Permit Practice Test

How to use this WA practice test

1. Take the 40 question exam-length practice test above once, untimed, to find your weak topics.
2. Work through the numbered 20 question sets below. Each one is fixed, so a second attempt is a fair comparison.
3. Read the explanation on every miss. The wording comes from the Washington State Driver Guide, which is what the examiners use.
4. When you pass three sets in a row at 80 percent or better, book the real test.

WA practice tests, 20 questions each

Fixed sets in a fixed order so you can retake one and compare your score.

1. Test 1
2. Test 2
3. Test 3
4. Test 4
5. Test 5
6. Test 6
7. Test 7
8. Test 8
9. Test 9

Printable WA practice test with answer key

All 40 questions, WA exam length

Every question below comes from the Washington question bank on this page. Open a question to see the correct answer and the explanation. Nothing here is hidden behind a signup.

1. 1. Which Washington office helps a new driver obtain a driver license or identification card?

   1. A vehicle licensing office only
   2. A county assessor's office
   3. A private insurance office
   4. A driver licensing office
   Show answer

   A driver licensing office. Washington separates driver services from vehicle registration services. Full explanation in Test 1

2. 2. For a Washington driver under age 21, what BAC is listed as carrying the same potential DUI consequences?

   1. 0.00% only
   2. 0.05%
   3. 0.02%
   4. 0.08%
   Show answer

   0.02%. The manual gives drivers under 21 a lower BAC figure than adults: 0.02%. Full explanation in Test 1

3. 3. When a Washington fire truck, ambulance, or police car uses lights or sirens, what should other drivers do first?

   1. Pull right and stop
   2. Race ahead to the next intersection
   3. Stop in the left lane
   4. Follow the emergency vehicle closely
   Show answer

   Pull right and stop. Emergency vehicles using lights or sirens have priority, so the immediate response is to move to the right side of the road and stop. Full explanation in Test 1

4. 4. What headlight timing does Washington law specify?

   1. Only from midnight until dawn
   2. From a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise
   3. From sunset until one hour after sunrise
   4. Only when another driver flashes headlights
   Show answer

   From a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise. Washington law specifies headlights from one half hour after sunset until one half hour before sunrise. Full explanation in Test 1

5. 5. Who is allowed in the vehicle with the examiner during Washington's Driving Skills Exam?

   1. The applicant and three driving coaches
   2. The applicant and the examiner only
   3. Any family member and the examiner
   4. Every applicant waiting for a test
   Show answer

   The applicant and the examiner only. During the Driving Skills Exam, Washington limits the vehicle to the applicant and the examiner, with stated exceptions for service animals Full explanation in Test 1

6. 6. What does a double solid yellow centerline indicate on a two-way roadway?

   1. Passing is not allowed
   2. Passing is required in both directions
   3. The road has one-way traffic only
   4. The line marks a bicycle lane
   Show answer

   Passing is not allowed. The guide uses double solid yellow centerlines to show the middle of a two-way road and says drivers are not allowed to pass there. Full explanation in Test 2

7. 7. Which location is specifically listed as a place where Washington drivers must not park?

   1. In a designated parking space
   2. On a crosswalk, sidewalk, or bicycle lane
   3. On a private driveway with permission
   4. Beside a legal curb during permitted hours
   Show answer

   On a crosswalk, sidewalk, or bicycle lane. The Washington guide expressly prohibits parking on a crosswalk, sidewalk, or bicycle lane. Full explanation in Test 2

8. 8. A new Washington resident over 18 holds a valid license from another state. How long do they have to get a Washington license?

   1. 10 days
   2. 60 days
   3. 30 days
   4. One year
   Show answer

   30 days. New residents who are licensed in another state have 30 days to obtain a Washington State driver license. Full explanation in Test 2

9. 9. When a Washington driver approaches an uncontrolled intersection, which general practice does the guide recommend?

   1. Choose the lane with the fastest vehicle
   2. Drive left whenever no signal is present
   3. Let the largest vehicle select the direction
   4. Drive on the right side of the road
   Show answer

   Drive on the right side of the road. The guide's general driving guidance tells Washington drivers to drive on the right side of the road. Full explanation in Test 2

10. 10. When are Washington intermediate driver license restrictions automatically lifted?

    1. When the driver turns 18
    2. After the first six months
    3. After one month of safe driving
    4. When the driver receives a new permit
    Show answer

    When the driver turns 18. Washington says intermediate license restrictions are automatically lifted when the driver turns 18. Full explanation in Test 2

11. 11. What minimum tire tread depth does the Washington guide give?

    1. Not less than 2/32 of an inch
    2. Not less than 1/32 of an inch
    3. Not less than 6/32 of an inch
    4. Any visible tread
    Show answer

    Not less than 2/32 of an inch. Worn tires can cause slipping and sliding, especially on wet roads, and the guide says tire tread should not be less than 2/32 of an inch. Full explanation in Test 3

12. 12. Can a person be considered in physical control of a vehicle for DUI purposes when the vehicle is parked?

    1. No, a parked vehicle can never be involved in DUI
    2. Yes, but only when the keys are outside the vehicle
    3. No, unless the vehicle is moving on a public highway
    4. Yes, if the person can take control of its engine or operation
    Show answer

    Yes, if the person can take control of its engine or operation. Washington's DUI rule reaches physical control, not just motion on a roadway. Full explanation in Test 3

13. 13. If a driver refuses an alcohol or drug test after an officer suspects impairment, what may happen to the driving privilege?

    1. It is suspended for exactly 24 hours
    2. It may be lost for 90 to 730 days or until age 21, whichever is longer
    3. It is permanently canceled after the first refusal
    4. Nothing happens unless the driver was speeding
    Show answer

    It may be lost for 90 to 730 days or until age 21, whichever is longer. The guide says refusing a suspected impairment test can cost the driver the privilege for 90 to 730 days, or until age 21, whichever period Full explanation in Test 3

14. 14. A square sign with a white horizontal line inside a circle means what?

    1. You cannot enter the street from that direction
    2. The street is reserved for buses
    3. The lane ends ahead
    4. Traffic must turn left
    Show answer

    You cannot enter the street from that direction. Washington describes this square symbol as a directional entry restriction. Full explanation in Test 3

15. 15. What do some Washington regulatory signs use to show that a symbolized action is not allowed?

    1. A blue rectangle around the symbol
    2. A green diamond below the symbol
    3. A yellow triangle beside the symbol
    4. A red circle with a red slash over the symbol
    Show answer

    A red circle with a red slash over the symbol. Some Washington regulatory signs place a red circle and slash over a symbol to show that the pictured action is prohibited. Full explanation in Test 3

16. 16. What information can Washington traffic signs provide besides roadway directions?

    1. Traffic rules, hazards, and roadway services
    2. Only license renewal dates
    3. Only vehicle weight ratings
    4. Only private parking prices
    Show answer

    Traffic rules, hazards, and roadway services. The guide groups traffic signs by the information they give road users. Full explanation in Test 4

17. 17. What does the maximum speed on a Washington Speed Limit sign assume?

    1. Heavy rain and poor visibility
    2. Ideal road conditions
    3. A speed that may always be exceeded
    4. The same condition on every road
    Show answer

    Ideal road conditions. The maximum number on a Speed Limit sign is based on ideal conditions. Full explanation in Test 4

18. 18. What is a Washington shared center lane reserved for?

    1. Passing slower traffic
    2. Through travel in both directions
    3. Parking during rush hour
    4. Left turns from either direction
    Show answer

    Left turns from either direction. A shared center lane is reserved for vehicles making left turns from either direction, including turns into or from the roadway. Full explanation in Test 4

19. 19. What do Washington destination signs show?

    1. Only the location of disabled parking
    2. Only warnings about slippery pavement
    3. Directions and distances to locations such as cities, airports, or state lines
    4. Only construction worker instructions
    Show answer

    Directions and distances to locations such as cities, airports, or state lines. Destination signs help drivers navigate by showing directions and distances to places such as cities, airports, and state lines. Full explanation in Test 4

20. 20. An emergency vehicle using lights or a siren approaches. What should you do before reentering traffic?

    1. Stop in the intersection and wave it around
    2. Keep your lane and let it pass on the left
    3. Turn left at the next opening
    4. Pull right and stop until it passes
    Show answer

    Pull right and stop until it passes. Washington gives fire trucks, ambulances, and police cars using lights or sirens the right-of-way. Full explanation in Test 4

21. 21. A double solid yellow centerline divides a two-way road. May you pass a vehicle by crossing it?

    1. Yes, if the vehicle ahead is below the speed limit
    2. Yes, but only during daylight
    3. No, passing is prohibited in either direction
    4. Only motorcycles may cross it
    Show answer

    No, passing is prohibited in either direction. Double solid yellow centerlines mark the middle of a two-way road where passing is not allowed in either direction. Full explanation in Test 5

22. 22. What does a flashing red traffic light require?

    1. A yield without stopping
    2. A full stop, followed by proceeding when it is your turn
    3. A complete ban on entering the intersection
    4. A speed reduction with no stop required
    Show answer

    A full stop, followed by proceeding when it is your turn. A flashing red traffic light functions as a stop sign. Come to a full stop, then proceed when it is your turn and the intersection is safe. Full explanation in Test 5

23. 23. Which earpiece use does Washington allow while driving?

    1. Full headphones at low volume
    2. Noise cancelling earbuds in both ears
    3. A hands free device in one ear that complies with the state code
    4. None at all, even hands free
    Show answer

    A hands free device in one ear that complies with the state code. You cannot drive while wearing earbuds, earphones, headphones or headsets that broadcast sound or cancel noise, but you can use a hands free Full explanation in Test 5

24. 24. What does a green arrow give a driver?

    1. Permission to ignore pedestrians
    2. A command to stop before the arrow changes
    3. Priority over an emergency vehicle
    4. The right-of-way to travel in the arrow's direction
    Show answer

    The right-of-way to travel in the arrow's direction. A green arrow gives the driver the right-of-way to travel in the direction shown. Full explanation in Test 5

25. 25. What does a dashed white line between lanes mean?

    1. The lanes carry traffic in opposite directions
    2. You may cross it to change lanes if safe
    3. You must remain in the lane until it ends
    4. It marks a railroad crossing
    Show answer

    You may cross it to change lanes if safe. A dashed white line separates lanes moving in the same direction and may be crossed for a lane change when the movement is safe. Full explanation in Test 5

26. 26. What should you do when a traffic signal is not working?

    1. Treat the intersection like a four way stop and yield to traffic on your right
    2. Continue through because the signal gives no instruction
    3. Wait for a police officer before moving under any circumstance
    4. Use the intersection as though you have a green light
    Show answer

    Treat the intersection like a four way stop and yield to traffic on your right. A dark or malfunctioning signal does not give any driver priority. Full explanation in Test 6

27. 27. After stopping at a red light, when may you turn right?

    1. Whenever the light has been red for at least five seconds
    2. Only after the driver behind you honks
    3. Without stopping if the cross street appears empty
    4. When no no-turn-on-red sign applies and there is room to enter traffic
    Show answer

    When no no-turn-on-red sign applies and there is room to enter traffic. A right turn on red requires a complete stop first. Full explanation in Test 6

28. 28. What is the best way to reduce the risk of hydroplaning on a wet road?

    1. Slow down
    2. Increase speed to cross the water quickly
    3. Brake hard whenever water covers the roadway
    4. Turn the steering wheel rapidly to find traction
    Show answer

    Slow down. Hydroplaning occurs when water builds between the tires and road, reducing traction and making the vehicle feel as if it is floating. Full explanation in Test 6

29. 29. How should you respond to a flashing yellow traffic light?

    1. Stop and remain stopped until a solid green appears
    2. Slow down and proceed as you would at a yield sign
    3. Accelerate because cross traffic must stop
    4. Treat it as a red arrow
    Show answer

    Slow down and proceed as you would at a yield sign. A flashing yellow light has the same meaning as a yield sign. Full explanation in Test 6

30. 30. What are the white stripes next to a Washington disabled parking space, and what is the rule for them?

    1. Overflow parking for compact cars
    2. A loading zone for deliveries
    3. A motorcycle space
    4. An access aisle that must be kept clear
    Show answer

    An access aisle that must be kept clear. The white stripes next to a reserved space are called an access aisle and must be kept clear so a person can deploy a ramp or lift and open Full explanation in Test 6

31. 31. What does a dashed yellow line show on a two way, two lane road?

    1. A lane reserved for parking
    2. A barrier that cannot be crossed under any condition
    3. The center of the road, where you may pass if safe
    4. Traffic lanes moving in the same direction
    Show answer

    The center of the road, where you may pass if safe. A dashed yellow line marks the center of a two way, two lane road. Full explanation in Test 7

32. 32. Where is driving on ocean beaches allowed in Washington, and what speed limit applies?

    1. On any beach at 15 mph
    2. Only in Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, at 25 mph
    3. Statewide at 35 mph
    4. Nowhere
    Show answer

    Only in Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, at 25 mph. Driving is allowed on ocean beaches only in Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties. Full explanation in Test 7

33. 33. How long is a Washington instruction permit valid before renewal is needed?

    1. Six months
    2. Two years
    3. One year
    4. Until the holder turns 18
    Show answer

    One year. A Washington instruction permit is valid for one year and can be renewed for a fee. Full explanation in Test 7

34. 34. If a driver is not enrolled in driver training, when can the driver take the knowledge exam?

    1. At age 14
    2. Only after turning 16
    3. After turning 18
    4. After turning 15 and one-half
    Show answer

    After turning 15 and one-half. Applicants who are not enrolling in a driver training course can take the Washington knowledge exam after turning 15 and one-half. Full explanation in Test 7

35. 35. By how much does the Washington guide say zipper merging improves traffic flow?

    1. By 10 percent
    2. By 60 percent
    3. By 5 percent
    4. It slows traffic
    Show answer

    By 60 percent. When a lane closes, zipper merging improves traffic flow by 60 percent, creates a predictable pattern that reduces sudden lane changes, and Full explanation in Test 7

36. 36. What is required when approaching a railroad crossing with flashing red lights?

    1. Stop and wait until the train has passed and the crossing is safe
    2. Cross quickly before the train reaches the crossing
    3. Stop only if a gate is lowered
    4. Drive around the warning lights if the track looks clear
    Show answer

    Stop and wait until the train has passed and the crossing is safe. Flashing red lights at a railroad crossing mean a train is approaching, so the driver must stop and wait until the train has passed and the Full explanation in Test 8

37. 37. What does the Washington guide say about snow tires and chains?

    1. They are never required in Washington
    2. Chains may only be used on the rear wheels
    3. They are only for trucks
    4. Use snow tires or chains when it is required, and chains or studded tires improve winter traction
    Show answer

    Use snow tires or chains when it is required, and chains or studded tires improve winter traction. Snowy roads require a larger following distance and dramatically reduced speed, and the guide says to use snow tires or chains when required Full explanation in Test 8

38. 38. What should you do if you are involved in a crash in which someone is injured or killed?

    1. Do not drive away, call 911, and notify law enforcement
    2. Leave immediately after exchanging a phone number
    3. Move the vehicle far away before reporting anything
    4. Wait to report it unless the damage exceeds a stated dollar amount
    Show answer

    Do not drive away, call 911, and notify law enforcement. After a collision involving injury or death, Washington guidance says not to drive away. Call 911 and notify law enforcement. Full explanation in Test 8

39. 39. What does a green arrow give a driver permission to do?

    1. Travel in any direction because all conflicting traffic must stop
    2. Reverse through the intersection in the arrow’s direction
    3. Ignore pedestrians because the arrow removes every crossing hazard
    4. Travel in the direction shown by the arrow while still watching for unexpected hazards
    Show answer

    Travel in the direction shown by the arrow while still watching for unexpected hazards. A green arrow grants the right-of-way to travel in the arrow’s direction, but it does not cancel the driver’s duty to observe the roadway. Full explanation in Test 8

40. 40. Before turning, what check does the Washington guide specifically recommend for nearby bicyclists or pedestrians?

    1. Rely only on the rearview mirror
    2. Sound the horn and turn without looking behind
    3. Check the side mirrors and look over your shoulder
    4. Check behind only after the turn is complete
    Show answer

    Check the side mirrors and look over your shoulder. A turn can cross the path of someone beside or behind the vehicle, so the guide calls for side-mirror checks and an over-shoulder check befo Full explanation in Test 8