Washington Immigration Laws

Prohibits local law enforcement from complying with voluntary ICE detainer holds, sharing nonpublic personal data with ICE, asking about immigration status (except for criminal investigations), or entering agreements to enforce federal immigration law.

State agencies are restricted from collecting or sharing immigration/citizenship status information.

Washington does not require proof of lawful immigration status or citizenship for a standard driver's license. All residents are eligible regardless of immigration status. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) do require lawful status.

Governs disclosure of vehicle/vessel owner registration lists. State agencies are separately prohibited from using any data (including motor vehicle records) for immigration surveillance under RCW 43.17.425.

Undocumented students who completed their senior year at a WA high school, earned a diploma/GED, and resided in WA 3+ consecutive years are eligible for in-state tuition. SB 5194 (2021) expanded eligibility and added access to state financial aid.