Washington's New Work Zone Course for Drivers Under 25
Starting November 1, 2026, anyone under 25 getting their first Washington driver license must pass a free online course on work zone and first responder safety. Here is who needs it, how to take it, and how it fits with driver training and your license exams.
Who Needs the Work Zone Course
- 16 or 17 and getting your first license on or after November 1Yes
- 18 to 24 and getting your first Washington licenseYes
- Under 25 and moving here with a license from another stateYour Washington license counts as your first one here.Plan on it
- Already have a Washington license, or got it before November 1No
- 25 or olderNo
What counts is your age on the day your license is issued. Anyone can take the course, even if it is not required.
What the Course Covers
The course teaches how to recognize work zones and roadside emergencies, like orange cones, reduced speed signs and flashing lights, and how to drive through them safely. It covers zipper merging, Washington’s Move Over law, and how to avoid risky last-minute moves.
How to Take It
- Get your WDL number. You get one when you create a License Express account. You need this number for your knowledge exam too.
- Open the state’s course. Go to the work zone and first responder course page and sign in with your WDL number, last name and date of birth.
- Finish the lessons and pass the test. It takes about an hour. When you pass, your driver record is updated.
How It Fits With Our Course
It is separate from our State Approved driver training course and from your knowledge and skills exams. You can take it before or after either one. We suggest doing it as soon as you have your WDL number, so it is out of the way well before licensing day.
Taking your exams with us? See License Exams for walk-in knowledge exam hours and what to bring.
Also Coming: Driver Training for 18-Year-Olds
Under the same state law, new drivers who are 18 must complete driver training before getting a license, starting January 1, 2027. The requirement then moves up one age each January: 19 in 2028, 20 in 2029 and 21 in 2030. The state can pause this if there are not enough courses or instructors.
Work Zone Course Questions
Is the work zone course free?
Yes. It is free and online, and works on a phone or computer.
Is it the same as your driver training class?
No. It is a separate state course. Our class does not replace it, and it does not replace our class.
Can I take it now?
Yes. It opened September 1, 2026, so you can finish it before the requirement starts.
What if I turn 25 before I get my license?
The rule goes by your age on the day your license is issued. If you are 25 or older that day, you do not need it.
Do I need a WDL number first?
Yes. You sign in to the course with your WDL number, last name and date of birth.
Details from the Washington State Department of Licensing, September 2026.