Washington is a Pacific state bordered by Canada to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the south and Idaho to the east. It is the third most densely populated state in the western United States, after California and Hawaii. The state's population is growing at a rate that is greater than the national average. Washington's natural resources are greatly responsible for the state's growth. The Columbia River, which forms part of the state's southern border, is North America's greatest source of hydroelectric power. Those moving to Washington are attracted to its scenic and natural beauty.

Origin of State's Name: The state of Washington was named after George Washington, our first President. Washington became the 42nd state on November 11, 1889 (the only state in the Union that is named for a president).

Capital City: The city of Olympia, the capital of Washington State, is conveniently located on Puget Sound between Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon. The calm, pristine waters of Puget Sound and vast inlets and marina's make the area a boater's dream. Olympia is home to Evergreen State College and Saint Martin's University. The arts play a major role in Olympia, known as one of the greatest art towns in the country.

Population: As of the 2000 census, the state population was approximately 5.9 million.

Driving: Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can be found on the Washington Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.

Agriculture and Industry: Major state agriculture includes seafood, dairy products, apples, cattle, wheat, potatoes and nursery stock; Aerospace, software development, food processing, paper products, lumber and wood products, chemical products, tourism are the state's leading industries.

State Bird: Washington designated the willow goldfinch as the official state bird in 1951. Also called American goldfinch or wild canary, the male goldfinch has a bright yellow body with black wings and tail, and black on top of his head.

State Tree: A large evergreen coniferous tree native to the west coast of North America, Washington designated the western hemlock as the official state tree in 1947.

State Flower: Washington officially designated the coast rhododendron as the state flower in 1959.

State Song: Written by Helen Davis, arranged by Stuart Churchill, "Washington, My Home" is the official state song of Washington.