FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I'm only 15, can I enroll in Driver's Ed? 

Yes! All you'll need is a "DOL" Number from the Department of Licensing. Enroll with us and we can then submit a waiver for you to purchase your permit from your License Express account on dol.wa.gov

After you obtain your Number and Pay for the Driver's ED Course, we will issue you a "waiver" of the knowledge exam with the Department of Licensing so you can get your instructional permit.

I'm over 18, am I eligible to participate in a Driver's Ed course?

Yes! You are welcome to purchase a Straight-Up or Bundled NorthStar package just like any of our teen students. We have adult students, who on occasion, choose to purchase our Adult Drive Lesson package and start with on-the-road lesson. However if you want to learn the laws, tactics and mechanics of driving, we are happy to accommodate whichever process you choose. 

How long does it take to complete Driver's Ed to get my license? 

Timelines vary, but the baseline amount of time acquired to complete all of Washington State's requirements is 6 months. This includes a 5 week class, 4 hours of simulation theatre, 1 to 2 observations on other driver lessons, and 5 drive lessons spread over several weeks.  If you're under 18, you must have been issued a permit for at least 6 months before you can get your Driver License at 16. It is possible to complete the course, drive lessons, and hours of training in less than 6 months, but you still will only be able to operate a vehicle for a minimum cumulative of 50 hours of driving with your parents or other licensed driver of 5 years in the making.

What happens if I miss a class? 

There's no penalty, it just delays your progress of obtaining your license. You must makeup the class in order to get course certified through NorthStar. You can do this either online or in a classroom in person. It's easiest to find the next class session that you missed by attending an online meeting or email us. Just contact us so we can get you set up!

What happens if I miss a drive?

Similar to missing a class, we'll have to reschedule with you, and it will delay your completion. If you miss your drive and we were not notified by you 24 hours in advance, you will receive a no-show fee on your account of $40. You can also incur this fee by failing to bring your permit or an expired permit to your drive.

I purchased a bundled package in order to take my DOL exams at NorthStar, but I want to take the tests sooner than what you have available. Can I be refunded for the exams? 

No, we cannot issue refunds in this case. We understand the eagerness to get your license, but remember, the more practice you have driving while on your permit, the better you will do on your exams and the more comfortable you'll be on the road thereafter! If your permit is expiring before your scheduled skills exam, you do not need to renew it in order to take your test. You will however not be legal to practice on the roadways before your exam date should it expire before the test.