Renewing your driver’s license or identification card is a necessary part of life. In Washington State, the Department of Licensing (DOL) manages these renewals, and understanding the costs involved can help you budget accordingly. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of license renewal fees in Washington State, covering everything from standard driver’s licenses to enhanced driver licenses (EDL) and commercial driver licenses (CDL).
Understanding Washington State License Renewal Fees
The fees associated with license renewal in Washington can vary depending on the type of license, endorsements, and any late penalties that may apply. Here’s a comprehensive overview.
Standard Driver License Renewal
The base fee for renewing a standard driver’s license in Washington State is:
- $55 for 6 years
- $73 for 8 years
Washington State Driver’s License
If you renew your license more than 60 days after the expiration date, a late fee applies:
- $65 for 6 years (includes $10 late fee)
- $83 for 8 years (includes $10 late fee)
Enhanced Driver License (EDL) Renewal
An Enhanced Driver License (EDL) provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship, and can be used for re-entry into the United States from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries at land and sea ports of entry. The renewal fees are:
- $97 for 6 years
- $129 for 8 years
If renewing an EDL more than 60 days late, the fees are:
- $107 for 6 years (includes $10 late fee)
- $139 for 8 years (includes $10 late fee)
Identification (ID) Card Renewal
For those who don’t drive but still need a form of identification, Washington State offers ID cards. The renewal fees are:
- $55 for 6 years
- $73 for 8 years
Enhanced Identification (EID) Card Renewal
Similar to the EDL, an Enhanced Identification Card (EID) provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship for non-drivers. The renewal fees are:
- $97 for 6 years
- $129 for 8 years
Commercial Driver License (CDL) Renewal
Renewing a Commercial Driver License (CDL) involves additional costs due to the specialized nature of the license. The fees vary depending on endorsements:
- Standard CDL Renewal: $157 for 6 years or $209 for 8 years ($55/$73 renew + $102/$136 CDL)
- CDL Renewal with Motorcycle Endorsement: $187 for 6 years or $249 for 8 years ($55/$73 renew + $102/$136 CDL + $30/$40 motorcycle)
Commercial Driver License (CDL)
Motorcycle Endorsement Renewal
If you have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license, the renewal fees are:
- $85 for 6 years
- $113 for 8 years
($55/$73 license + $30/$40 motorcycle)
Agriculture Permit Renewal
For individuals under 18 with an agriculture permit, the renewal fee is $15 per year.
Additional Fees and Considerations
Several other fees may apply depending on your specific situation:
- Late Renewal Fee: $10 (if renewing more than 60 days after expiration).
- Revised License Fee: $20 (for updating information such as name, address, or photo before the next renewal).
- Technology Fee: $1 (included in the pricing listed above and supports technology upgrades for the DOL systems).
- Out-of-State Renewal: $55 for 6 years or $73 for 8 years (same as standard renewal).
- Extending Expiration Date While Out of State: $5 (for a 12-month extension).
Reduced Fee ID Card
Some individuals may qualify for a reduced fee ID card. If eligible, the cost for a standard ID card is $5. To qualify, you must visit a driver licensing office and show:
- A ‘Request for “Identicard” form issued by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), or
- A copy of your DSHS benefits approval letter showing your current certification period, or
- A printout of your Washington Connection client benefit account history page, or
- A letter from your WIC provider confirming your participation in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program.
- If you are under 25 years old and don’t have a permanent home address, you don’t need to provide any documentation.
If you choose to enhance your reduced fee ID card, the enhanced fees still apply, with an extra $7 per year until it expires.
Payment Options
The Washington State Department of Licensing offers several payment options:
-
In-Person:
- Cash: Accepted at licensing offices.
- Check: Payable to “Department of Licensing.”
- Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover are accepted at most offices (vendor fees apply).
-
Online:
- Check: Accepted.
- Visa, MasterCard, American Express: A 3% card payment fee applies for online transactions. Paying with checking account information online incurs no added fee.
Payment Options
Note: Some smaller offices (Coulee Dam, Goldendale, Newport, South Bend) only accept cash or check.
Conclusion
Understanding the costs associated with Washington State license renewal is essential for budgeting and avoiding late fees. Whether you’re renewing a standard driver’s license, an enhanced driver’s license, or a commercial driver’s license, knowing the specific fees and payment options will help ensure a smooth renewal process. Always refer to the Washington State Department of Licensing for the most current and accurate information.
