Washington State, not Washington DC, is in the Pacific Northwest. It is known as one of the most beautiful states in the country. Washington, nicknamed “The Evergreen State,” is dotted with hundreds of miles of evergreen woods. When you hear ‘Washington State,’ you probably think of Seattle. With a focus on nature and the outdoors, it’s a bustling city full of attractions for all ages.
If you are considering moving to Washington state, you need to read on the moving to Washington state checklist as this guide covers everything starting from moving costs, living costs, taxes, job market, and best places to live as compared to other cities in the country.
Is it expensive to live in Washington state?
Washington’s cost of living isn’t exactly low. Living in Washington State has its perks. Savings can help your apartment budget. Affordability also depends on your location in Washington. Seattle will be a costly city to live in. As the country’s 15th most populous metro area, expect high-rises. According to the United States Census Bureau, the cost of living in Washington is 18.7 percent higher than the national average.
According to PayScale, here’s an example of how much migrating to Washington costs in Seattle:
- Energy bill: $206.39
- Loaf of bread: $4.22
- Doctor’s Visit: $137.50
- Gallon of gas: $3.47
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Quick Facts About Washington
Washington is a northwest state with snow-capped mountains, massive evergreen forests, forested islands, and even five active volcanoes. Seattle, the state’s largest city, is known for its thriving music and technology scenes, as well as its coffeehouses and museums.
- Capital: Olympia
- Population: 7 million
- Nickname: The Evergreen State
- Key Cities: Seattle, Spokane, Olympia, Vancouver, Tacoma
- Postal Abbreviation: WA
- Major Industries: Aerospace, agriculture and food manufacturing, technology, forest products
- Famous locations: Space Needle, Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, Hoh Rain Forest, Mount St. Helens
Cost of Moving
Moving across the nation can be a time-consuming and expensive procedure, but you should avoid taking unnecessary precautions simply because you are moving a long distance. Choosing an appropriate mode of transportation for a long journey is also important.
How much does it cost to move to Washington
| Mode | Transport fee |
| Metrorail | Peak Fare $2.25 – $6.00 |
| Off-Peak Fare $2.00 – $3.85 | |
| Weekend Metrorail one-way fare $2.00 | |
| Metrobus | Regular Routes $2.00 |
| Express Routes$4.25 | |
| Airport Express Routes $7.50 | |
| Reduced Fare – Regular$1.00 |
Passes
| Metrorail &Metrobus | Cost to Ride |
| 1-Day Unlimited Pass$13.00 | |
| 3-Day Unlimited Pass$28.00 | |
| 7-Day Unlimited Pass$58.00 | |
| Monthly Unlimited Pass$72.00 – $216.00 | |
| Regional Bus Pass | 7-Day Pass$12.00 |
Things you Need to Know about Living
Before moving to Washington you need to figure out a sufficient amount which you need to earn to live comfortably in the city. If you are planning to relocate to Washington, here is an overview of the living expenses of the state.
Living in Washington
The state is known for its booming economy, incredible landscape, technology hub, and urban capital. The state starts from the coast and ends at a coast. Surprisingly the weather and landscape change depending on the place you live. You can also explore many outdoor activities, vibrant art views, and delicious cuisines.
The population of Washington is therefore steadily developing due to the rise of Foreigners and ex-pats relocation and had recorded nearly 8.1 million people in 2021, showing a 2% increase from previous years.
Cost of living in Washington State
The cost of living expenses is the amount that an individual requires to live and maintain a proper living standard. The cost of living is determined based on the US average which is 100. A value below 100 means the cost of living in Washington is less than the US average and vice versa.
| Cost of living | Washington | United States |
| Health | 83.8 | 100 |
| Grocery | 101.1 | 100100 |
| Housing | 165 | 100 |
| Transportation | 113.8 | 100 |
| Utilities | 75 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 99.4 | 100 |
The average overall cost of living is 118.7.
Living in Washington Pros and Cons
As now you have got a glance at what the state has to offer let us take a look at the pros and cons of moving to Washington.
| PROS | CONS |
| Washington is a paradise for nature lovers. It is rich in forests, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls that create a wonderful opportunity for hiking exercising outdoor living exploring nature. | The state imposes a higher sales tax. Citizens of Washington experience boards traffic and driving conditions. |
| It has an excellent education system. | The cost of living is very expensive, especially in Seattle. |
| The state imposes no income tax. | It is not a place for those who don’t like a monsoon. |
| It has a very low crime rate. | Washington remains constantly in the danger zone as it is predicting large earthquakes of higher magnitude. |
| Job opportunities for job seekers are increasing especially in the technology industries. | |
| Washington experiences temperate weather throughout the year. | |
| It has a great economy. |
Is it a good state to live in?
Yes, Washington is a great state to live in for those who want to crack good job opportunities, enjoy gorgeous landscapes, and like moderate weather year-round. A robot economy, less income tax, less crime rate, and magnificent outdoor spaces make it harder to beat any other state.
Is it cheap to live?
Yes, it is affordable to live in Washington but it depends on which city you choose to live in that fits your status and budget.
How much does it cost to live here per month?
The cost of living in Washington state for a small family of four is $4122 per month without rent and $1137 per month for a single person without rent.
Tax Rate and Ranking
Paying taxes is predominant and your existence in a new country will be impossible without it. So, before moving to Washington you need to know and understand the various taxation systems, tax years, and specific legal requirements adopted in the country.
Taxes in Washington State
The state does not impose a personal income tax but it has a higher sales tax which is more than that of income tax. However, businessmen in Washington have to pay business and occupation tax and utility tax. The gross receipts in the business determine the tax amount the owner has to pay. Businesses making or providing retail sales have to submit and collect retail tax sales tax.
In 2021, the marginal federal income tax rate was 22% and the effective income tax rate changed from 13.2% to 13.1%.
The major flipside of taxes imposed in Washington is the state’s sales tax amounting to 6.5% which is higher than income tax. It changes from country to country and sometimes gets higher than 10.4%. Washington also offers an effective property tax rate of 1.03 % due to which it has been ranked #29 among all the Nations in the US.
Washington tax free weekend
Many countries provide sales tax holidays over certain items of the state that need to be promoted for the purchase of certain supplies, appliances, or products tax-free. Washington does not have any tax-free holidays or scheduled weekends.
Is state tax-friendly?
The state is one among the nine states of the US that do not impose any income tax. Property tax rates, taxes on retirees’ accounts, and social security taxes are tax-free.
What kind of taxes does State have?
The state imposes a public utility tax and business and occupation tax on businesses and people.
What is exempted from sales tax?
Gasoline, prescription drugs, medical devices, food items with stamps, and groceries are tax exempted in Washington.
What is a tax on $100?
A general sales tax rate of 6.50 % is imposed on a $100 purchase.
Becoming a Resident
Becoming a resident here is so easy, you simply need to take a few steps that will prove that you are living in the state on a temporary or permanent basis.
How to establish residency?
Prior to the first day of the quarter in which residency is requested, you (or your parent/legal guardian, if financially dependent) must have established a domicile in Washington for at least one year. For sales and use tax purposes, people have deemed residents if they take acts that indicate they intend to stay longer than a few days. A person may be deemed a resident of this state even if they reside elsewhere.
Washington Residency Requirements
The Department of Revenue presumes a person is a resident if they:
- Maintains a residence in Washington for personal use;
- Lives in a motorhome or boat that is not permanently tied to any property and has never lived in another state;
- Registered to vote in this state;
- Receiving support from a state program;
- Has a state professional or business license;
- A resident of Washington who attends school in this state or a custodial parent whose child attends public school in this state.
- Files federal or state taxes from Washington;
- Claims Washington as a domicile for hunting and fishing licenses, public office, and judicial actions.
People can dispute the assumption of residency by providing evidence that they do not intend to live in this state permanently or temporarily. The state will consider a Washington resident who intends to move in the future.
How long do you have to live in Washington to establish residency?
To be considered a resident for tuition reasons, you (or your parent/legal guardian if financially dependent) must have lived in Washington for at least one year previous to the start day of the quarter requested.
How do I prove residency in Washington?
Documents That Acknowledge Your Local Address You must supply documentation establishing your residency in here. This may include the following: Home utility bill (gas, electric, water, garbage, land-line telephone). Cable, internet, and television bills are not allowed.
Laws and Regulations
Washington law is multi-tiered, encompassing constitutional, statute, regulatory, and case law, as well as local regulations. Washington’s general statute law is codified in the Revised Code.
General Laws
Washington’s Constitution is the primary legal source. The Washington Administrative Act codifies state agency regulations. Case law is used to interpret common law in Washington’s legal system. Local regulations can be passed by counties, cities, and municipalities.
Constitution
Washington’s Constitution is the most authoritative source of state law. The Washington Constitution is subordinated to the United States Constitution, which is the highest law of the land.
Legislation
The State Legislature has adopted legislation. This is codified and consolidated in the Revised Code of Washington. The State Statutory Law Committee publishes both, as does the Washington State Code Reviser.
Regulations
Several governmental agencies have issued regulations, often known as administrative law. Draft and expedited rules, emergency and permanently enacted rules, public meetings, and notices of rule review are included in the Register.
Case law
Washington’s legal system is founded on common law. Except for Louisiana, Washington has a reception act allowing English law to be “received.” The Washington Supreme Court and Washington Court of Appeals have established a vast body of case law based on common law tradition.
Local ordinances
Ordinances, regulations, and orders may be adopted by cities and towns. Violations are punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Only first-class cities or towns founded under the commission plan of governance, and home rule counties have the right to originate ordinances by petition and have them presented to voters.
Weird laws in Washington
Every state has its weird laws, and Washington is no different. Few realize these ten practices are illegal in Washington.
- Unauthorized attachment of a vending machine to a utility pole.
- Mattress shopping on Sunday.
- Use polka dots to decorate the American flag.
- In Everett, put a hypnotized individual in a store window.
- Poop on a bus
- Buy meat in Sunday.
- Carry a common cold with you.
- Dissuade girls from attending Maple Lane.
- Switch lanes or turn right without signaling.
- Harass Bigfoot.
What’s illegal in Washington?
10 Things are actually illegal in Washington:
- Attaching a vending machine to a utility pole without prior consent from the utility company.
- Buying a mattress on Sunday.
- Spitting on a bus.
- Buying meat on Sundays.
- Painting polka dots on the American flag.
- Displaying a hypnotized person in a store window in Everett.
- Harassing Bigfoot.
- Walking around with the common cold.
- Enticing girls away from the Maple Lane School.
- Changing lanes or turn without using your turn signal.
Is it illegal to walk around with a cold in Washington state? Washington is no different. For instance, it is theoretically unlawful for someone suffering from a common cold to leave the house. 70.54 Revised Code of Washington (RCW).
Are lollipops illegal in Washington? Many of Washington’s laws are only hearsay, such as “All Lollipops are Banned” in the state. You should not fear arrest or consequence for purchasing and consuming lollipops to your heart’s content.
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Housing Market and Affordability
The home values in Washington State have risen up to 22.8% over the past few years and have become costly as their typical housing value is $563,890. This value is adjusted from time to time and includes a medium value tier of housing.
Housing market in Washington
According to ex-pats, buying a home is a better option than renting in the state. Let’s say the average home price is $387,100. The monthly mortgage price ranges between $1689-$1739 whereas the average monthly rent is $1995 which means you are spending nearly $3072 per year more on rent on average.
Average House price
The median house value of major cities in are
| Cities | Median home value |
| Spokane | $224,000 |
| Seattle | $820,000 |
| Richland | $207,100 |
| Montlake | $512,400 |
| Madison park | $9,00,000 |
| Sammamish | $1,419,285 |
| Bainbridge | $1,222.318 |
| Tacoma | $739,000 |
| Vancouver | $1,199,400 |
| Connell | $254,950 |
Is there a housing shortage?
Yes, there is a housing shortage of approximately 80% or 181,000 units of houses.
What is the average price of a house?
The average home price in the state is $464400 in the year 2020.
Is housing affordable?
Yes, housing in cities like Auburn, Bothell, Olympia, Spokane, Quincy, Yakima, Westport, and Richmond are affordable and for those who are low-income workers who can afford rent.
Jobs, Employment Opportunities
The reputation of the state is due to its rapidly increasing and booming economy, innovation, businesses, and the job market. This is the reason why a large number of ex-pats relocate to Washington state as an employer or in search of jobs.
Job Market in Washington
The job market is booming. This is the reason why it is the home of several reputed tech companies like Amazon Expedia group, Starbucks, Microsoft, Boeing, etc. According to US News and other publications, The state has been ranked as one of the top state economies and is called a “powerhouse of the economy” and an “Innovative producer”.
Washington is a leading producer in farming, agriculture, and aerospace industry which provide the highest GDP growth in the country. There are more than 1500 aircraft-related industries in the state itself that produce aircraft products and commercials and act as a supply chain provided throughout the country. The farmers of Washington produce more than 300 various items like cherries, agricultural products, trade, food processing, Apple production, etc for the economic growth and development of the country.
Highest paying jobs in Washington
The in-demand highest paying jobs that are providing the highest economy and GDP to the country are as follows:
| Jobs | Average salary (per annum) |
| Aerospace | $$117,463 |
| Tourism industry | $46,719 |
| Clean technology | $85,118 |
| Information and communications technology | $59,799 |
| Foresters | $69,710 |
| Agriculture and food industry | $48,773 |
| Military and defense | $31,372 |
| Life science and global health sector | $80,000 |
| Maritime engineer | $108,636 |
Does Washington have a good job market? According to the reports from WalletHub, Washington state has been ranked among one of the top 20 cities with the highest number of job vacancies and recruitments mostly in the field of manufacturing, science, and technology.
Is Washington a good place for work?
Washington is a good place for work that provides a handful salary with good benefits to their employees and workers. A good working environment, excellent training, and highly motivated staff make a difference in individual lives.
How long can you receive unemployment?
You can receive unemployment advantages for up to 179 days.
What is the average annual income?
The annual average income is $70,672 in 2020 which is more than the national average.
Health Department
The Healthcare industry in Washington includes the formation and execution of rules, laws, and regulations for managing the health care system of the state. Today it has become an immense part of the country’s economy as it is spending about one-sixth of the nation’s GDP and health expenditures of about one-fourth of the state budget.
Healthcare in Washington state
The health care policies and regulation in Washington is complex procedure and is overseen by a single or several regulatory bodies enforced by private organizations, local state, or federal governments. It consists of services given by medical professionals to treat, diagnose and prevent physical and mental injury or illness. The system also focuses on a wide range of similar sectors like health information technology insurance and pharmaceuticals.
Healthcare policies help citizens to not only pay for their health care but also provide access to hospitals, nursing homes, and quality of care provided to them which affects their overall health. Policymakers’ only concern is the increasing cost of healthcare that has developed stress on the income of citizens and state budgets. Other factors associated with the health care policy include
- Expansion of state Medicaid
- Overall access and coverage on mental health care air
- Shortage of care physicians
- Healthcare information technology
- Remaining uninsured and underinsured citizens of the population
Health Insurance in Washington
State and federal government and employers are the dominant sources of health insurance. Where employers pay part of their income as health insurance, their state government sponsors Medicaid for low-income people, and the federal government provides Medicare for disabled and retirees. Nearly 45% of Washington residents have been insured through employers and the lowest percent are uninsured citizens
| State | Employer | Medicaid | Medicare | Other public insurances | Private insurance | Uninsured |
| Washington | 49% | 13% | 15% | 4% | 7% | 11% |
As for the patient protection and affordable care act, Washington citizens need to enroll in any of the above health insurances, or else they have to pay a penalty of being uninsured. Citizens are fortunate to avail of any coverage option through government programs for employee programs themselves and their families. Here’s general information on the government and private health programs that can be found in Washington.
- Employer-sponsored insurance: This insurance is available for those who are employers of any organization and can purchase individual insurance. These individuals are not qualified for public subsidies.
- Medicaid (apple health): Medicaid or Washington Apple health offers free coverage to an individual with an annual income of less than $17,609, and $36156 for a family in 2020. The coverage options also involve children retirees and pregnant women having a higher income level.
- Medicare: Medicare is an insurance benefit provided to two people over age 65 or a qualified disabled person for more than 2 years.
- Private health insurance: E-health insurance, Washington works to provide private health insurance services to individuals and families in Washington.
Average cost of health insurance in washington state
The average cost of health insurance is $420 for a person. Premiums may vary and can be lower or higher depending on your good health.
Best health insurance cost starts from $166 per individual for a superior medical plan. The actual lowest price or highest price of any metal label depends on gender, age, zip code, and other factors. You need to get a personalized premium quote as per your factors.
| Metal level | Lowest Monthly premium avg |
| Bronze | $166 |
| Silver | $190 |
| Gold | $245 |
On average, Washington residents have to pay a premium value of $420 per person to get a basic medical single health insurance plan.
| Metal level | Average Monthly premium |
| Bronze | $420 |
| Silver | $531 |
| Gold | $658 |
Is healthcare free in Washington state? One can go for low-cost or free healthcare for a year if the person has Washington Apple health coverage.
Does Washington state have public healthcare? Washington State is the first state that has a public health care option that provides universal health access to any public hospital. They have their insurance plans for all citizens and also provide free health care under apple health coverage.
Does Washington have public health insurance? Washington state provides dental mental vision and medical health coverage to those citizens who qualify for health insurance. You can apply for health insurance anytime throughout the year.
What is the income limit for Washington state insurance? The monthly income limit for a single individual applying for State health insurance is $1480 and $3048 for a family of four.
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Education System
As per us news 2020 Washington is named it is one of the best states that is strong in infrastructure, economy, health care, and excellent education systems. The state shines in public education and has excellent high-performing school districts scattered in the state.
Education in Washington State
Washington state provides education to students in a safe, virtuous, and friendly environment. The public school system in Washington (pre-kindergarten to grade 12) is run within the state and is governed by local school superintendents. These public schools comprise an approximate average of 18:1 student-teacher ratio in total 2370 schools. As a majority more than 630,405 students are white and 230,080 students are Hispanic accounting for 60% and 24% of the student population respectively.
Students of Washington attend college for free or with fewer tuition fees. Resident’s children whose annual income is less than $50,000 are eligible for total tuition coverage under the Washington College Grant.
Washington state education ranking
Washington is ranked as one of the most educated states in the nation that provide first-class educational opportunities. According to WalletHub Washington has been ranked #6 in overall education rankings from which it has been ranked #2 in higher education and #11 in pre-kindergarten to 12. Rankings are done based on state test scores, graduation rates, college readiness, SAT/ACT scores, quality teachers, school district ratings, etc.
Higher education in Washington
To gain a graduation degree, high school students in Washington must earn 20 credits and clear state tests in science, English, and maths with a post-high school plan written up as per the Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instructions. Washington is home to top universities scattered all over the town with 90000+ students offering 300+ subject courses.
The state’s graduation rate and the dropout rate was 62.2% and 4% in 2020. According to the reports of the National association of state budget officers, Washington State spends 23.4% of its total budget on secondary and elementary education which is the second-highest percentage when compared to other neighboring states of the country. The state provide the Washington College Grant, a financial aid program under the workforce education investment bill that guaranteed to fund eligible students with financial support to study in colleges and universities of Washington. The WCG’s eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Students must earn a graduate degree, GED, or diploma equivalent from Washington High school.
- High school graduates have to complete a full senior year at any High school in Washington.
- Students have to live in Washington after getting their graduate degree until their admission into college.
- Students have to stay in Washington for 36 months before earning of High school diploma or equivalent.
Top 10 Colleges & School in Washington
Washington is a hub to many affiliated public schools, colleges, and universities that provide the best education at an affordable cost. Here is a list of the top 10 school colleges and universities present in Washington
Top 10 public school districts:
- Bellevue school district
- Bainbridge island school district
- Camas school district
- Issaquah school district
- Lake Washington school district
- Mercer island school district
- North shore school district
- Oakesdale school district
- Pullman public school
- Shoreline school district
Top 11 colleges and universities:
Washington State University, Pullman
When it comes to universities, the state is home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the USA. Washington State University, located in Pullman was founded in 1890 and offers various programs.
- Gonzaga University
- Pacific Lutheran University
- Northwest University
- Whitman college
- University of Washington, Seattle
- Washington state college
- Whitworth University
- Western Washington University
- Seattle Pacific University
- Seattle University
Is State Good for education?
Yes, Washington state is good for education as it has the best schools and colleges in the state that have been ranked among the top 100 best schools and colleges overall. So the education systems of Washington have been ranked among the top 10 best states in the nation.
Does State have good public schools?
Washington State has many high-performing good public schools in every district that excels in the public education and education ratio.
Is education free?
Yes, education is free for low-income students studying in community colleges due to the Washington college grant’s free tuition program expanded by the Washington state legislature.
Where does Washington state rank on education?
The state has been ranked among one of the 10 states in the US that provide the best educational systems.
Transportation and Travel System
Whether you opt to travel by sea or land, Washington state has a wide range of transit options. From all these, the streetcar system is widely chosen by the people of Washington due to its reliability and avail an effortless journey.
Transportation in Washington State
There are several modes of transportation options available. However, traffic is the worst in the country but the transportation infrastructure is not that bad. All the maintenance and development of transportation infrastructure is taken care of by the state department of transportation.
Washington has 7000+ miles of road network maintained by WSDL which include major interstate highways like I-5, I-90, and I-82 and auxiliary highways like I-705, I-605, I-405, I-205, and I-182. Other than public transportation modes, you can own a vehicle which will be easier for you to explore nearby as well as remote destinations in Washington.
Major Medium of Transportation in Washington
The major medium of transportation include:
| Transportation medium | Cost (average) |
| Amtrak | $296.18 |
| Ferry system | $15-$49 |
| Freight railroad system | $232 |
| Personal vehicle (fuel cost) | $0.10 per mile |
| Sound Transit Link light rail (Tacoma and Seattle) | $368 |
| Streetcar network(Seattle) | $1.25 per fare |
| The Sounder commuter rail(Seattle) | $3.25 – $575 |
Public transportation in Washington
There are four modes of public transportation available in Washington State that are trains, buses, interstate flights, and ferries which are sometimes inaccessible in every corner of the state as they are restricted in certain cities of the country.
Ferries: The Washington state ferries opt to transit in the waterways from various ports of Seattle to other parts of the state. It has a passenger capacity of 750 to 3000. The travel cost starts from $100 and becomes less in the case of senior citizens or kids below the age of 6.
Railways: Amtrak, railways is another option to move within cities in Washington starting from Seattle to other parts of the nation.
Airways: There are many national and international airports present in Washington that have domestic and international flights available to fly out of the country and within the state. Washington residents find it a convenient option but for low-income people, it might be expensive.
Buses: WSDOT buses are a reliable transportation option that serves 4 different lines or origins in Washington. As a convenient and easy public transit service, it focuses on connecting rural towns to urban towns. The four routes covered by WSDOT buses are Grape Line, Apple Line, Gold Line, and Dungeness Line.
Is there public transportation available?
There are two public transportation systems that help people King County Metro and Sound transit as well as Express Bus.
Is there a subway system in Seattle Washington?
Seattle Washington has many transit options whether on sea or land. But it doesn’t have any rail trains or buses for a smooth transition of people. So, it runs a streetcar system as an easy and efficient transit option.
How much is the bus fare?
The bus fare for an adult of age 19 – 64 is $2.25 for a single ride and $4.50 as a day pass. For the youth of age between 6 to 18 the cost of a single ride is $1.50 and $3 as a day pass. Children under age 5 are free from any fares.
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Driving License Requirements
Citizens can apply for a learner’s permit at the age of 16 and are eligible for an adult license at the age of 17. To get a driver’s license of the state, you have to show legit documents to the OMV, go through a driving test and pass the driving license eligibility.
Washington driving license
Adults seeking a Washington license have various alternatives. If you choose, you can get a learner’s permit, undergo a driver training course, and pass knowledge and driving examinations. An instruction permit is necessary for all teen drivers 15-17, but not for adults seeking a Washington driver’s license. A permit is only required to practice driving before taking the driving test. A driver training course is not required if you are 18 or older. But if you’ve never driven a car before, it’s probably a smart idea.
Washington driving license requirements
To get your license, you must:
- Be a Washington resident aged 16+.
- Register for a driver training course.
- Keep your Washington teaching permit for 6 months.
- Prohibition on drug and alcohol use while licensed.
Washington driving license test
You must first check-in at the WA DOL office before taking your road test. The required documents for the Washington road test are SSN, proof of identity, charges, and valid vehicle insurance and registration documents. Your examiner will watch you do a series of tasks.
- Make sure you start your car smoothly.
- When leaving the curb, make careful to signal, check, and enter traffic when it is safe.
- When driving, maintain proper vehicle control. Use the steering wheel, gas pedal, and brake smoothly.
- When driving in traffic, stay in the proper lane. Signal while changing lanes or turning. Always keep a safe following distance.
- Always heed traffic signs.
- Stop smoothly and at the right place when necessary. If necessary, quit promptly.
- Always glance behind you when backing up. A straight back is also required.
- You should drive courteously and respect others’ rights.
- An emergency stop simulation test is also required. Reverse out of a driveway or alley into traffic, and parallel park correctly.
After Washington Road Test, great job if you passed! That’s okay, the State has one of the toughest road tests in America. To pass the test, you must perfect your driving skills.
How long does it take to get a driver’s license?
Your new driver’s license will be processed and mailed to you within 10-14 business days of receiving your application. If you do not receive it within 30 days, please contact any licensing office.
Can you take the written driving test online?
Your exam can be administered via computer at your local DOL or at a driving school if you are presently enrolled, and will cost $25 plus an additional test charge that varies by location.
How much does a driver’s license cost?
The application fee is $35 and the license fee is $45. These costs include one attempt at passing the tests. There are two types of tests: a knowledge test and a driving test.
Best Places to Live in Washington
Spokane
Spokane is a beautiful city in Washington, featuring views of the Selkirk Mountains and the Spokane River. Near the US-Canada border, it’s 92 miles from over 70 lakes and rivers, including the stunning Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Seattle
Seattle is surrounded by the natural grandeur of Washington, from ocean to mountains and woods. It also has a booming tech industry, with Amazon based there. Seattle has great restaurants, pubs, and culture.
Richland
Richland, with its many parks and limitless opportunities to appreciate nature, is a considerably more economical option. The city of 52,000 people has a laid-back, small-town vibe. There are four 18-hole golf courses to select from. Low crime and outstanding public schools.
Olympia
Olympia is at Puget Sound’s southern end. It has a lake and the Washington State Capitol. The downtown waterfront features a 1909 Governor’s Mansion and public art. Olympia is recognized for its funky feel and laid-back attitude. It’s easy to fit in with the different locals.
Montlake
This is a calm, upscale area where the median household income exceeds $200k. Portage Bay and Montlake Cut to the north, Interlaken Park to the south. Beautiful single-family homes line quiet tree-lined streets in Montlake. The property is outrageously priced here.
Madison Park
Madison Park, on the other hand, is a posh beachfront community. It’s simple to see why this is one of Seattle’s most expensive neighborhoods. Seattle locals go here on weekends to enjoy the fleeting summer sun in stunning coastal mansions and opulent family residences
Sammamish
Sammamish, a more expensive option than Redmond, is home to 50,200 inhabitants and scenic Lake Sammamish. It’s only 25 miles from Seattle, but it feels worlds away owing to its natural tranquility.
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island boasts a stunning landscape and is ideal for nature enthusiasts. Residents commonly enjoy fishing, hiking, sailing, and other outdoor activities. It’s right near to Seattle and was once ranked the second-best location to live in the country by CNN.
Tacoma
Tacoma, with its amazing vistas of Mount Rainier, is gaining appeal as Seattle’s insane housing costs drive people away. Its Museum of Glass attracts people from all across the state and beyond. Part of Tacoma’s appeal for young professionals is its lower cost of living than Seattle.
Vancouver
Vancouver, Washington, borders Portland, Oregon. Mountain biking and outdoor leisure are popular here. Locals take advantage of the lack of income tax in “the Couve” by shopping in Portland.
Diverse Culture & Climate
Culture
Washingtonians, in typical West Coast flair, are laid-back and relaxed. Residents spend their weekend’s hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and surfing.
It has considerable Native American, Asian, Hispanic, and Scandinavian populations. Because of this, there are many intriguing cultural events and festivals to attend.
In the most recent census, only 35% of residents claimed to be religious in Washington. Like many of its west coast neighbors, it is a socially liberal state. Washingtonians are also more environmentally conscious than Americans in general, recycling, using public transportation, and cycling.
Washingtonians are recognized for being kind, polite, and hospitable to newcomers, although they can be perceived as being more reserved than other Americans.
Climate
Washington has two climates. Summers are mild and humid west of the Cascades, and winters are mild and cool east of the Cascades. Western Washington has frequent cloud cover, fog, and rain, while the Cascades receive up to 508cm of snow annually. The Rain Shadow east of the Cascades receives only 15cm.
What cultural region is Washington in?
Washington lies in the Pacific Northwest, north of Oregon and west of Idaho. Warm North Pacific Ocean currents keep Western Washington pleasant. Washington’s culture is diversified due to its recent settlement and importance as a Pacific commerce port. There are considerable Asian, Scandinavian, Native American, and recently Hispanic groups.
What is the average temperature?
Washington State is divided into two separate climate zones. Summer days west of the Cascades are mild and humid, rarely exceeding 26°C (79°F), and winter days rarely fall below 8°C (46°F), whereas the east of the state experiences warm summers and cool winters.
How long is winter?
From November 12 to March 1, the chilly season lasts 3.6 months, with average daily high temperatures below 53°F. December is the coldest month in Seattle, with an average low of 38°F and a high of 47°F.
Ranking
U.S. News & World Survey named Washington State the greatest state in a new report issued Monday night. Washington has been ranked #1 since 2019. In addition to health care, opportunities, the economy, and education are also ranked annually in the publication.
| Category | Rank |
| Healthcare | #8 |
| Education | #4 |
| Economy | #4 |
| Infrastructure | #3 |
| Opportunity | #25 |
| Fiscal stability | #6 |
| Crime and corrections | #19 |
| Natural environment | #15 |
Moving to Washington – Conclusion
We wish you have enjoyed reading this comprehensive guide on what Washington state has to offer after you make your move. Relocating here is a good idea because of the geographical diversity, low cost of living, great education, plentiful outdoor activities, ample job opportunities, and more. It is also the origin of Starbucks, Boeing, and Microsoft.
There are also other reasons to consider while moving to the evergreen state that differs from person to person. Let us know what are yours?
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