Governor Ferguson has signed SSB 5501, a new law that prohibits employers from discrimination based on whether an applicant or employee has a driver’s license. Beginning on July 27, 2025, employers are prohibited from requiring a driver’s license as a condition of employment or including a statement in a job posting that an applicant must have a driver’s license, except in limited circumstances.
Employers are allowed to require a driver’s license or include statements in a job posting about the license requirement if driving is an essential job function for the position or is related to a legitimate business purpose. The Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) is charged with enforcement of this new law, and can assess penalties, interest, and recovery of the costs of investigation and enforcement against employers for violations.
Tips: Ensure human resources, your recruiting team, and hiring managers understand these new requirements and are prepared to implement them when the law takes effect this July. Take steps now to ensure that job postings do not include language requiring a driver’s license, unless an exception applies. If you have questions, contact your Vigilant Law Group employment attorney.
