DOL Approved Exams at NorthStar

Avoid the lines at the Department of Licensing by scheduling a DOL approved Knowledge or Skills Exam at NorthStar Driving Academy. We have 7 languages to choose from for the Knowledge Exam, (English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Vietnamese). However, the Skills Exam is conducted in English and Spanish only.

See below for Knowledge Exam schedules at all of our locations and to "Buy Now" online.

Skills Exams are offered 7 days a week, and are only conducted during daylight hours. In the state of Washington, a NorthStar staff member must be able to confirm your passed knowledge exam prior to scheduling a skills exam.  If you are under 18, you must also have passed Drivers ED. A driver does not need a permit to take this exam.  See the bottom of the page for video clips of the main testing exercises.

Please carefully read the FAQ's below in preparation for your examination, or contact us with any questions.

If you do not currently possess a Washington State Identification Card, Instructional Permit or License Number, you must create a License Express account through the Department of Licensing homepage. This is the only way we can upload your test scores to the State database, in order for you to obtain your license.

Go to www.Dol.Wa.Gov to create your License Express account. Have your personal information, Social Security Number, and email ready so you can confirm your account. Any of our customer service reps will be happy to assist you with creating an account if needed.

Conducted in English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian & Vietnamese
 

This is the Department of Licensing 40-question exam designed from information within the Washington State Driver Guide. It is an "objective" test, each question presented with 4 multiple choices.  You must earn a score of 32 or higher to pass.  You may take the test up to 3 times per day as long as time allows.

The DOL has 5 "sample" questions for your preparation. See Practice Test. However, your best preparation will be studying a current copy of the Washington Driver Guide.  After that, test your general knowledge of U.S. traffic laws and best practices at  dmv-written-test.com but keep in mind this is no actual sample of the WA State DOL knowledge exam.  
 

We often see nearly 70% of people taking the test for the first time, failing it, especially due to lack of study.
 

After paying for the exam please fill out the registration form for the location, day, and time of the exam of your choice. Note the ongoing schedule for Auburn and Federal Way below.  Days and times subject to change with holidays and PTO.

At all locations, please arrive 5-10 minutes early to start on time. Secure your spot with a payment below. 

Conducted in English and by appointment only. Currently in Auburn, and Federal Way.

Please use a credit card to secure the service through the PayPal system, and then fill out the registration form to suggest preferred days and times for your skills exam. One of our operators will get back to you with details and confirmation of the appointment within 1-2 business days. Thank you!

Check out the video links below for some insight on the Skills Exam:
 

Pre-Test
 

Backing Maneuver
 

Parallel Parking
 

Lane change and turning

*People who accompany you to your exam will not be allowed in the vehicle during it. If our office lobby is closed, they will have to wait outside.