What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining an intermediate license?

To obtain an intermediate license in Washington State, the minimum age requirement is 16 years old, but this is contingent upon completing a driver’s education course. This requirement is in place to ensure that young drivers have received formal instruction on driving safety, rules of the road, and practical driving skills before they are allowed to drive independently. This reflects the state's commitment to enhancing road safety by equipping new drivers with the necessary knowledge and skills.

In contrast, only being 15 years old does not allow for an intermediate license, as individuals must reach 16 years of age. While 17 years old is an age at which an individual may apply for a license, that path does not allow for gaining an intermediate license without prior completion of a driver’s education course. Likewise, while 18 years old denotes an age where one can have fewer restrictions, it does not require any specific education prerequisites, and is not applicable to the intermediate license stage.