Washington

Washington State’s Teen Driver’s License and Insurance Requirements

Washington uses a graduated license system to advance unlicensed drivers from an instruction permit to an intermediate license and then finally to a valid driver’s license.

Washington's Cellphone-Use and Texting-While-Driving Laws

Washington has two distracted driving laws: one that applies specifically to electronic device use, and another that prohibits distracted driving in general. This article gives an overview of these offenses and the penalties for a violation.

Washington's Speeding Ticket Penalties

Like most other states, Washington has two types of speeding laws: absolute speed limits and a basic speeding law. This article explains the differences between the two and the consequences of each type of violation.

Red Light and Stop Sign Tickets in Washington

If you get a stop sign or red light ticket in Washington, you’ll likely be looking at having to pay a fine. This article gives an overview of what the law requires and some of the consequences of a stop sign or red light violation.

Driving Without a Valid (or on a Suspended) License in Washington

Washington prohibits driving without a valid license, whether the person’s license was suspended, expired, or revoked or the person never had a license. This article explains these violations, the possible penalties for a conviction, and the exemptions to the license requirement.

Washington’s Commercial Driver’s License Laws

Obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) in Washington requires passage of a skills and knowledge test based upon the type of commercial motor vehicles (CMV) being driven. Federal law requires that CDL drivers crossing state lines must be 21 years of age. States may set different age limits for commercial drivers that operate solely within the state.

Washington’s Child Car Seat and Seat Belt Laws

Vehicle child safety seat requirements, including age and height limits for different types of car seats.