Transportation

Bicycling
There are a number of bicycling trails through the area if you are looking for good exercise or just want to avoid traffic. The Burke-Gilman trail extends around the Lake Union area, over to the University District, up north beyond the Sand Point neighborhood and extending all the way north beyond the city limits to Bothell and around the north end of Lake Washington. There is a bicycle lane along the I-90 floating bridge between Bellevue, Mercer Island and Seattle. There are also trails extending through the South Seattle neighborhoods by Seward Park, Madrona and Beacon Hill. West Seattle and Magnolia also offer scenic bike paths which connect to the downtown Seattle waterfront. Public buses have bike racks too in case you want a ride for part of the way. For more information on bicycle trails, visit the Seattle Parks and Recreation website.

Driver's license
To own a car, you first need a valid Driver's License and a current auto insurance coverage policy. You can obtain your driver's license from any Washington State Department of Licensing office. You will be required to take both a written test and a driver's test. The written test is actually done on computer and is based on questions from a state-issued Driver's guide. You can get copies of the Driver's Guide for free from any Department of Licensing office. You will need to take a quick eye exam and have a picture identification card along with our birth certificate or social security card.

Auto insurance
Auto insurance policies are available through most insurance companies. Call more than one and shop around for the best policy coverage and least monthly premium cost. Insurance companies change their fee structures so every time your policy is up for renewal, don't be afraid to call around to other companies and see if there is a less expensive policy available. Features you want to look for are: liability and collision, uninsured motorists (in case you get in an accident with someone who has no auto insurance to pay for damage to your car), and personal injury protection.

Automobile costs
When you buy a car, make sure you budget out costs beyond the car itself. You will have monthly insurance premiums to pay, perhaps a monthly car payment, gas, maintenance such as tire rotation and oil changes, mileage check-up appointments, and even cleaning or winterizing expenses.

 

 

 

1. What should I check for when buying a car?

2. How can I avoid paying more at a mechanic?

 

 

 

 

 

Driver's permit

If you are 15, you may get a State-issued driver's permit. This permit allows your to practice driving when there is another licensed adult driver in the car. If you know you want your driver's license as soon as you turn 18, don't wait to practice and study the Driver's Test written guide early.