DOL Approved Exams at NorthStar

At NorthStar Driving Academy, we have 7 written languages to choose from for the Knowledge Exam:  English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Vietnamese.  If you come with your smart phone, you may take the written test through your License Express account.  If you prefer "listening" to the exam, bring your earbuds or headphones.   Currently, in addition to the 7 languages listed above, we now have Arabic, Ukrainian, Simple Chinese, Punjabi and Tagalog versions online.  You MUST be at least 15 1/2 years of age to take the Knowledge Exam.

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

        Mon      10a-1p      in Federal Way        

         Th         4p-8p      in Auburn    

         Fri         2p-6p      in Federal Way

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 YouTube 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 address 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.

Secure your spot with a payment below. 

Written tests are featured in English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian & Vietnamese.  The Department of Licensing's new automated system also includes, Arabic, Simple Chinese, Punjabi, Ukranian, and Tagalog.  You can even connect your audio listening device to HEAR the test!
 

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 has 4 multiple answers to choose from.  You must earn a score of 32 or higher to pass, that is, greater than or equal to 80%.  You may take the test again by paying up to an hour before closing.

While there is no short-cut to reading the Driver Guide, there are some helpful websites where you may take some Practice Tests.  But remember, your best preparation will be studying a current copy of the Washington Driver Guide--cover to cover!
 

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. 

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.