Washington State Department of Licensing Knowledge Test

If you refuse to take a test under the Implied Consent law, what is the least amount of time your license will be revoked?

1. 6 months

2. 1 year

3. 2 years

4. 5 years

The correct answer is: 1 year

When an individual refuses to take a chemical test when requested by a law enforcement officer under the Implied Consent law, there are specific penalties that apply. In Washington State, the law stipulates that the minimum period for which a driver's license will be revoked in the event of such a refusal is one year. This is particularly significant because the Implied Consent law is designed to encourage drivers to comply with tests that determine their blood alcohol content or presence of drugs. By refusing to take the test, drivers face serious consequences, reflecting the state’s commitment to road safety and responsible driving. The penalties increase significantly for repeat offenders or for those who have prior convictions for driving under the influence, but the one-year minimization period for the first refusal remains constant in accordance with the law. This helps ensure that all drivers are aware of the implications of refusing a test and the serious nature of impaired driving.