Washington · DUI · Checked October 2026
DUI License Suspension in Washington: Hearing Deadline and Hardship License
DUI License Suspension in Washington: What Are the Rules?
You have 7 days to challenge a license suspension after a DUI arrest in Washington.
- Deadline to challenge
- 7 days
- How it is counted
- The date the notice was given (usually at arrest; for a blood test the department sends the notice later). If mailed, the request must be postmarked within seven days after you receive the notice
- Failed test
- 90 days for a first incident within seven years (ends early if you complete or enroll in a pretrial 24/7 sobriety program); 2 years for a second or later incident within seven years; under 21 at 0.02 or more or any THC: 90 days first, then 1 year or until age 21, whichever is longer
- Refused test
- 1 year for a first refusal within seven years; 2 years (or until age 21, whichever is longer) for a second refusal or a prior incident within seven years
- Hardship license
- Ignition interlock driver's license (IIL)
How to Request a Hearing in Washington
Request a formal hearing in writing with DOL and pay the $375 fee (waivable if you are indigent): online through DOL's secure portal or with the Request for DUI Hearing form 525001
Suspension if You Fail a Test in Washington
90 days for a first incident within seven years (ends early if you complete or enroll in a pretrial 24/7 sobriety program); 2 years for a second or later incident within seven years; under 21 at 0.02 or more or any THC: 90 days first, then 1 year or until age 21, whichever is longerRCW 46.20.308(5)-(7); RCW 46.20.3101
Suspension if You Refuse a Test in Washington
1 year for a first refusal within seven years; 2 years (or until age 21, whichever is longer) for a second refusal or a prior incident within seven yearsRCW 46.20.308(5)-(7); RCW 46.20.3101
Official source: suspension if you refuse a test (Washington)
Getting a Ignition Interlock Driver's License (IIL) in Washington
You may apply at any time, including right after arrest. You must install an ignition interlock on all vehicles you drive and file proof of financial responsibility such as an SR-22, and keep the device for the rest of the suspension or revocation
Official source: getting a ignition interlock driver's license (iil) (Washington)
More on DUI Law in Washington
See the full overview of DUI laws in Washington and read about hardship licenses in every state.
This page summarizes Washington law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in Washington can advise on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do You Have to Request a Hearing in Washington?
7 days. How it is counted: the date the notice was given (usually at arrest; for a blood test the department sends the notice later). If mailed, the request must be postmarked within seven days after you receive the notice.
How Long Is the License Suspension for Failing a Test?
90 days for a first incident within seven years (ends early if you complete or enroll in a pretrial 24/7 sobriety program); 2 years for a second or later incident within seven years; under 21 at 0.02 or more or any THC: 90 days first, then 1 year or until age 21, whichever is longer
Can You Get a Hardship License in Washington?
You may apply at any time, including right after arrest. You must install an ignition interlock on all vehicles you drive and file proof of financial responsibility such as an SR-22, and keep the device for the rest of the suspension or revocation