Quick Answer
Yes — Washington issues its standard driver license to residents without a Social Security number. To get one:
- Sign a sworn affidavit, under penalty of perjury, stating you don't have an SSN.
- Prove your identity and Washington address; the DOL may ask for extra address proof.
- Pass the knowledge and drive tests and pay the $50 application fee plus $10 per year of the license.
The standard license is not REAL ID for anyone, so it isn't accepted at TSA checkpoints.
Can You Get a Driver's License in Washington Without an SSN?
Yes. Washington's Department of Licensing issues the same standard driver license to residents with or without a Social Security number. Under WAC 308-104-014, an applicant who has never been issued an SSN signs a sworn affidavit saying so, and the department may require extra documents proving a Washington residence address.
Washington never created a separate privilege card, so the license looks the same as a citizen's standard license. The rule is in WAC 308-104-014; application requirements are in RCW 46.20.091. A commercial driver license (CDL) is different: it requires an SSN and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residence.
Is a Washington Standard License a REAL ID?
No. Washington's standard driver license is not REAL ID compliant for any holder, citizen or not. The state's REAL ID option is the Enhanced Driver License, which costs an extra $56 and requires proof of U.S. citizenship under RCW 46.20.202, so applicants without an SSN can only get the standard license.
- For air travel, carry your valid foreign passport or another TSA-accepted ID. See our guide to flying with an ITIN.
- Because every non-enhanced Washington license looks the same, the card itself doesn't show that you applied without an SSN.
What Documents Does Washington Require?
Washington asks for 3 things: identity documents from the Department of Licensing's accepted list, proof of your Washington residence address, and a sworn affidavit if you have never had a Social Security number. RCW 46.20.035 sets the identity rules, and original documents are required, though some expired IDs work when paired with other proof.
- 1Identity — documents from the DOL's accepted list under RCW 46.20.035. Bring originals.
- 2Washington address — the DOL may require extra residence documents from applicants who sign the no-SSN affidavit.
- 3No-SSN affidavit — signed under penalty of perjury at the licensing office. A false statement on a license application is a gross misdemeanor.
Ask your licensing office for its current list of accepted identity and address documents before your visit.
How Much Does a Washington License Cost Without an SSN?
A new Washington driver license costs a $50 application fee, in effect since January 1, 2026, plus $10 for each year the license is issued. That is $130 for the standard 8-year license or $110 for the 6-year option. The same fees apply whether or not you have a Social Security number.
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application fee, new license (from Jan. 1, 2026) | $50 |
| License issuance, per year | $10 ($80 for 8 years, $60 for 6) |
| Late renewal penalty (more than 60 days after expiration) | $10 |
| Enhanced license (citizens only) | +$56 |
Fees are set by RCW 46.20.120, RCW 46.20.161, and RCW 46.20.181. Testing locations may charge their own exam fees, and the per-year fee rises by $1 in July 2028.
How Do I Apply Step by Step?
Applying takes 4 steps: complete driver training if Washington requires it for your age, pass the knowledge and drive tests, visit a Department of Licensing office with your identity and address documents, then sign the no-SSN affidavit and pay the fees. Driver training is required under 18, and for 18-year-olds starting January 1, 2027.
- Step 1: If you're under 18, complete an approved driver training course. Starting Jan. 1, 2027, 18-year-olds must too, and the age limit rises each year until it covers drivers under 22 in 2030 (RCW 46.20.1191).
- Step 2: Pass the knowledge test and the drive test at a DOL office or approved testing location.
- Step 3: Bring your identity and address documents to a licensing office.
- Step 4: Sign the no-SSN affidavit, have your photo taken, and pay the $50 application fee plus $10 per year.
Does Washington Share License Information With Immigration Authorities?
Washington limits it by law. RCW 43.17.425, from the 2019 Keep Washington Working Act (chapter 440, Laws of 2019), bars state agencies from asking about immigration status, citizenship, or place of birth, and requires them to collect and disclose only the minimum information needed, except where state or federal law requires disclosure.
The Department of Licensing is covered by those agency rules. The law still allows disclosure that state or federal law requires, so no state can promise records will never be shared. Read the text of RCW 43.17.425.
What Can You Do With a Washington Standard License?
A Washington standard driver license lets you drive legally anywhere in Washington for up to 8 years, buy auto insurance, and use it as photo ID wherever a federal REAL ID isn't required. It can't be used at TSA checkpoints or for a commercial license, and it doesn't prove immigration status or work authorization.
- Drive legally anywhere in Washington and buy auto insurance — see car insurance without an SSN
- Show it as a state photo ID where REAL ID isn't required
You cannot use it to:
- Board a domestic flight or enter a secure federal building
- Get a commercial driver license (requires an SSN and lawful permanent residence or citizenship)
- Prove immigration status or eligibility to work
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ITIN to get a Washington driver license?
No. Washington doesn't require an ITIN or an SSN. If you have never been issued an SSN, you sign a sworn affidavit saying so, and the Department of Licensing may ask for extra proof of your address.
How long is a Washington driver license valid?
A Washington license is valid for 8 years, expiring on your birthday, or 6 years if you choose that option. You pay $10 for each year of the license.
Does a Washington license show that I don't have an SSN?
No. Washington issues the same standard license to everyone who isn't getting an enhanced license, so it has no special marking for applicants without an SSN.
Can I fly with a Washington standard driver license?
No. Washington's standard license isn't REAL ID compliant, so TSA doesn't accept it. Use your valid foreign passport or another TSA-accepted ID to fly.
Can I get a commercial driver license without an SSN in Washington?
No. A Washington CDL requires a Social Security number and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Washington is one of 19 states, plus Washington, D.C., that license drivers without proof of lawful status. Unlike Oregon or Utah, it issues the same standard license to everyone, with no special marking. Nearby Oregon, Nevada, and California also issue licenses without proof of status, each with its own documents and fees.
For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →