Can I use a translator in the Washington Flagger class?

You may, but it needs to be someone who is not a close friend or family member. Students must be able to answer the questions on their own.

Can I use my Washington, Oregon, or Idaho Flagger card in other states?

Washington, Oregon, and Idaho State Flagger cards are accepted in the states of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana for Department of Transportation projects.

Do I have to have a photo on my Flagger card?

No, you do not need to have a photo on your card. Washington and Idaho Flagger cards are designed to be valid with a government-issued photo ID (such as a state ID card or Driver License).

Do I need a Driver License to become a Flagger?

You do not need a Driver License. Any form of government-issued ID is acceptable.

How long is a Flagger certification valid for?

Washington and Idaho Flagger certifications are valid for three years.

Is the Washington Flagger class offered online?

No, the Washington Flagger class is not offered online. Per Washington State rules, these classes are only offered in person.

Is there a practice test for Flagger?

No, but you can read through the digital copy of the book and try answering the review questions at the end of each chapter. You'll receive a link to the digital copy of the book with your registration confirmation.

What are the physical requirements/demands of a flagger?

Flaggers should be able to: receive and communicate specific instructions clearly, firmly, and courteously; move and maneuver quickly to avoid danger from errant vehicles; control signaling devices to provide clear guidance to drivers; understand and apply proper traffic control practices; and recognize dangerous traffic situations. Physical abilities include: standing for prolonged periods on uneven surfaces (up to 10 hours), traversing uneven surfaces, stooping, kneeling, or crouching, grasping, pushing, or pulling, hearing warnings, seeing dangerous situations, and occasionally lifting and/or moving up to 40 pounds.

What is the minimum age for Flaggers?

You must be at least 18 years of age to operate as a flagger.

What should I do if I lose my Flagger certification card?

As long as your certification is valid, you may order a replacement card by filling out this form. There is a $20 fee. Note that many of our certification cards are printable, meaning that you receive a PDF copy of your card upon course completion, which you are welcome to print and keep in your wallet.

Evergreen Safety Council

Washington State Flagger pre-class information

Follow the steps below to get ready for your class.

NOTE: By attending this course, you are confirming that you have read and agreed to Evergreen Safety Council’s Course Policies. If someone else registered you for this course, you are still responsible for reviewing them.

Step 1

Make sure you meet the requirements to be a Flagger

Click below to read the physical requirements for being a Flagger.

You must be at least 18 to perform flagging duties. You may complete the Washington State Flagger certification course prior to turning 18, but you will not receive your certification, nor will you be eligible to work as a Flagger, until after you have turned 18.

Flagger physical requirements

Step 2

Arrive on time to class, and bring your ID

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before class so that you can get checked in.

ID requirements

You must bring photo identification to class. State- or government-issued identification (such as a state ID card, driver license, or passport) is preferred.

A printed copy of the student handbook will be distributed during class. If you’d like to download a digital copy as a PDF, click below.

We recommend bringing a pen, pencil, or highlighter so you can make notes in your book.

WA Flagger student handbook

Step 3

Earn your certification

To earn your WA Flagger certification, you must:

Complete the full 8-hour course
Provide a valid photo ID verifying your identity and required minimum age
Score 80% or better on the certification exam

The Washington State Flagger certification is valid for 3 years.

Receiving your certification card

A digital copy of the certification will be emailed to you, and the official paper certification will be mailed to the address you provide during registration.

Note that the digital copy of the certification is not valid for work as a Flagger. You must have a paper copy of your certification on your person at all times while operating as a Flagger.

Retests

If you do not pass the exam, you will need to retake the class.

Frequently asked questions

Flagger

See all FAQs

Flagger articles in our safety library

Safety in high speed work zones

Following MUTCD guidelines, workers in high speed work zones must wear proper apparel, hold daily tailgate meetings, and stay alert to protect their team.

"Not your 9 to 5" — 7 things to know about becoming a flagger

Learn what it takes to succeed as a work zone flagger, from getting up early to having the right equipment.

How to navigate your first day on the job as a flagger

Getting your certification is only your first step to working as a flagger. Once you’ve been hired for a job, the next step is to mentally and physically prepare for your first day. Just like any new job, it’s normal to feel nervous, but there is plenty you can do to help yourself feel calm and confident.

Operating with other flaggers in the work zone

When working with one or more flaggers, coordination and communication are essential for maintaining smooth and safe traffic flow. Here's a guide to effectively working as a team while controlling traffic.

Flagger signaling with a red flag

Flagging is a challenging and hazardous job that requires strong mental and physical abilities, and takes place in tough work environments. Wearing the right combination of hi-visibility apparel and workwear is one of the keys to keeping yourself safe in the work zone.

Are you sending the right signals?

One of the most important skills you’ll use when working as a flagger is signaling with the STOP/SLOW paddle. Here are a few tips to get you up to speed, while slowing traffic down.

Flagger clothing requirements for Washington State

The Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), and the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) all require that workers who are on foot in a work zone and may be exposed to vehicles or equipment wear high-visibility apparel.

Dress for success in the work zone

Flagging is a challenging and hazardous job that requires strong mental and physical abilities, and takes place in tough work environments. Wearing the right combination of hi-visibility apparel and workwear is one of the keys to keeping yourself safe in the work zone.

Glow On: High-Visibility Work Zone Safety Apparel

You may have seen road and construction workers dressed in fluorescent (often referred to as “high-visibility” or “hi-vis”) safety gear such as hard hats and vests. You probably know that these bright colors help flaggers and other road workers stand out in situations where their safety is at risk. But do you know why hi-vis colors seem to glow the way they do?

Heatstroke Prevention, Symptoms and Treatment for Flaggers

Heat-related illnesses can occur at any time, but workers are especially at risk during the warmer summer months. Whether you work outside or indoors, it’s important to learn to recognize signs and symptoms of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses—especially when temperatures rise.

National Work Zone Awareness Week - April 11-15, 2022

National Work Zone Awareness Week takes place each year during the beginning of “construction season” to remind road users to be mindful and use their best judgment when encountering work zones. The theme for this year’s event, hosted by the Michigan Department of Transportation, is “Drive Safe. Work Safe. Save Lives.”

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Flagger FAQs

Evergreen Safety Council

Washington State Flagger pre-class information

Step 1

Make sure you meet the requirements to be a Flagger

Step 2

Arrive on time to class, and bring your ID

Step 3

Earn your certification

Frequently asked questions

Flagger

Flagger articles in our safety library

Safety in high speed work zones

"Not your 9 to 5" — 7 things to know about becoming a flagger

How to navigate your first day on the job as a flagger

Operating with other flaggers in the work zone

Flagger signaling with a red flag

Are you sending the right signals?

Flagger clothing requirements for Washington State

Dress for success in the work zone

Glow On: High-Visibility Work Zone Safety Apparel

Heatstroke Prevention, Symptoms and Treatment for Flaggers

National Work Zone Awareness Week - April 11-15, 2022

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