Drivers education
For teens, this is the biggest line item, and it is required under 18. WMST teen packages run from $549 to $699 depending on how much testing and warm-up you bundle in. The most popular Standard package is $625, and it is currently $525 with the Spring Fever discount. Every package includes the full 30 hours of classroom, 6 behind-the-wheel drives, and observation. Compare them on the Teen Drivers Education page.
The state test and license fees
On top of the course, the DOL charges its own fees:
- Knowledge test: $25 per attempt.
- Instruction permit: a separate application fee.
- Skills test: a fee that varies by examiner.
- The license itself: a DOL issuance fee.
These change over time, so check the Department of Licensing for the current numbers. Budget a bit extra in case a test needs a retake.
Adults
Adults skip the required course today and pay only the state fees, though most book a few lessons so they pass the first time. WMST adult lessons start at $75 an hour, with packages that bundle the skills test. One or two lessons is often cheaper than a couple of failed test attempts and the stress that comes with them.
The honest math
For a typical teen, plan on the cost of drivers ed plus roughly a hundred dollars or so in state fees, give or take. The single best way to keep the total down is to pass each test the first time, which is exactly what good training buys you.