Why Logging Practice Hours Is Essential
For new drivers in Washington, logging practice hours isn’t just about fulfilling a requirement — it’s about building the foundation for safe, lifelong driving habits. The state wants to make sure teens and first-time drivers are spending enough time behind the wheel to practice a variety of real-world scenarios, from quiet neighborhoods to busy highways.
A logbook acts as proof of this practice. Without accurate records, a student may be ineligible to take the WA Skills Test. But beyond requirements, consistent logging also helps families track progress, identify weak areas, and celebrate milestones along the way.
WA State Requirements for Supervised Driving
The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) sets clear rules for supervised practice. Here’s what students and parents need to know:
- Minimum Hours: New drivers under 18 must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night.
- Supervision Requirements: Practice must be done with a licensed driver who has held a Washington license for at least five years. This is most often a parent or guardian.
- Night Driving: Hours logged after sunset count separately and must be noted as such in the logbook.
- Variety of Conditions: Students should gain experience in different weather, traffic conditions, and road types. This prepares them for unexpected challenges after they are licensed.
For adults over 18, there is no mandatory hour requirement, but consistent practice is highly recommended before attempting the Skills Test.
Tips for Staying Consistent with Logging
Many families start out logging hours carefully but lose track as schedules get busier. Staying consistent is key to avoiding stress before the Skills Test. Here are some practical tips:
- Log Immediately After Driving: Write down the time, conditions, and what was practiced right after each session. Waiting until later often leads to forgetting details.
- Set Weekly Goals: Instead of trying to cram hours at the end, aim for 2–3 practice sessions per week.
- Mix It Up: Practice in neighborhoods, highways, and urban areas. Variety not only builds skills but makes the log more accurate.
- Use a Parent-Teen Agreement: Some families create a schedule that outlines when practice happens and what skills to cover each week.
- Review Progress Together: Parents should go over the log with their teen regularly to check for skill gaps and plan future practice.
Digital vs Paper Logs: What’s Accepted
Families often wonder if they can track practice hours digitally instead of using a paper log. The good news: Washington accepts both, as long as the record is accurate and complete.
- Paper Logs: Many students use the official DOL practice driving log, which can be downloaded from the state’s website.
- Digital Logs: Apps and spreadsheets are perfectly fine too. Some even provide reminders and track day vs night driving automatically.
What matters most is that the log includes:
- Date of the drive
- Length of time spent driving
- Conditions (day/night, weather, traffic)
- Supervising driver’s name and signature (if using paper logs)
When in doubt, WMST recommends keeping a backup of your log to avoid any issues when test day arrives.
WMST’s Tools to Help Track Your Progress
At WMST, instructors and staff know that tracking hours can feel overwhelming for busy families. That’s why they provide tools and guidance to make the process easier:
- Clear Guidance on State Requirements: WMST makes sure both parents and students understand exactly how many hours are needed and how to log them correctly.
- Templates and Resources: Students receive access to sample log sheets and recommendations for reliable digital apps.
- Progress Check-Ins: Instructors may review logs during lessons, giving advice on areas that need more practice.
- Skill-Based Tracking: Beyond just hours, WMST helps families track what was practiced (e.g., backing around a corner, parallel parking, or highway driving).
This structured approach ensures students are not just meeting the minimum 50 hours, but are also preparing for safe, independent driving.
FAQs
How many hours of practice are required in WA?
Teens under 18 must complete 50 supervised hours, with at least 10 at night. Adults over 18 are not required to log hours but are encouraged to practice extensively.
Can all 50 hours be with a parent?
Yes. As long as the supervising driver is over 21 and has had a valid license for at least five years, a parent can supervise all practice hours.
Does night driving count separately?
Yes. At least 10 of the 50 hours must be completed after sunset, and they must be clearly marked in the log.
What if I forget to log a session?
Do your best to reconstruct it by writing down the date, time, and conditions. However, it’s best to log immediately after each drive to avoid errors.
Is there a specific format for the log?
The WA DOL provides a standard log format, but any written or digital format is accepted if it includes dates, times, and conditions.
Conclusion
Logging practice driving hours in WA is more than a technical requirement — it’s an essential part of preparing teens for safe, independent driving. By keeping accurate records, following the 50-hour rule with 10 hours at night, and practicing in a variety of conditions, families ensure their teen is not only ready for the Skills Test but also for real-world driving.
With WMST’s guidance, resources, and structured lesson plans, families can feel confident that every hour behind the wheel is moving their teen closer to becoming a safe, responsible driver.