06/16/2026
WASHINGTON STATE'S BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM STARTS TODAY
The Blue Envelope Program is a FREE and VOLUNTARY program whose aim is to make traffic stops safer and more productive for people who are neurodivergent, or who might have communication barriers in stressful situations.
Blue Envelopes are business-size envelopes with printed instructions for drivers on one side and information for law enforcement officers on the other, (see example below).
BLUE ENVELOPES CAN BE PICKED UP AT ANY DRIVER OR VEHICLE LICENSING OFFICE IN WASHINGTON.
Program participants will not need to show proof of need, and nothing will be noted on their driving record.
Participants will store their insurance card and registration in the Blue Envelope. During a traffic stop, they will hand the officer the Blue Envelope with the documents inside along with their driver's license. The Blue Envelope will serve as a visual cue to the officer that the driver, or even a passenger, processes the world differently.
This provides officers the opportunity to adapt their communication style to better reduce misunderstandings and stress on everyone.
Many other states and jurisdictions have Blue Envelope programs. Washington State Patrol led a workgroup composed of neurodivergent individuals, advocacy groups, and DOL to refine the idea for Washington.
Communication is key during stressful and/or crisis situations. If this tool is useful for you or a loved one, learn more here:
https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/blue-envelope-program
