In Washington, drivers who are age 70 or older must renew their driver’s license in person at a Department of Licensing (DOL) office. Online and phone renewals are not available for this age group, as the state requires an in-person visit to ensure that seniors meet vision and safety standards.
During the renewal process, seniors will be required to pass a vision screening at the DOL office. If corrective lenses are needed to meet the vision standard, the renewed license will include a restriction requiring their use while driving. Seniors must also have a new photo taken and present their current driver’s license for identification. If a senior has a medical condition that could affect driving ability, the DOL may request additional medical documentation or further evaluation.
Washington offers two renewal term options for seniors: a six-year renewal for $54 or an eight-year renewal for $72. Enhanced licenses, which provide federal identification benefits, are also available for an additional fee. Licenses expire on the driver’s birthday, and seniors can renew up to one year before expiration or up to eight years after expiration. If a license has been expired for more than 60 days, there is an additional $10 late fee. If the license has expired for more than eight years, the driver must apply for a new license rather than a renewal.
At the DOL office, seniors should expect to take a vision test at every renewal. A written or road test is not required unless the DOL has specific concerns about the senior’s driving ability. While Washington does not impose special driving restrictions based solely on age, vision or medical issues may result in license restrictions. Renewal notices are typically sent about six weeks before the license expires, but seniors are responsible for renewing on time even if the notice is not received. Driving with an expired license can result in a ticket, and if the license is expired for more than 60 days, the late fee applies.
There is no grace period for out-of-state licenses; new residents must obtain a Washington license promptly. Seniors should also be aware that online and mail renewal options are not available to them once they reach age 70.
By understanding these requirements, seniors in Washington can ensure a smooth license renewal process and maintain their driving privileges without interruption.
Sources
[1] https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/renew-or-replace-driver-license/renew-driver-license
[2] https://thewrangler.com/license-renewal-for-seniors-in-washington-what-you-need-to-know/2025/07/05/
[3] https://zutobi.com/us/wa-car/driver-guides/washington-drivers-license-renewal
[4] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/washington-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
[5] https://mblawfirm.com/insights/license-renewals-understanding-the-new-rules-for-senior-drivers/
