For device drivers passing the WHQL tests, Microsoft creates a digitally signed certification file that, when included in the driver installation package allows installation on 64-bit versions of Windows and prevents 32-bit versions of Windows Vista and all versions of Windows XP from displaying a warning message that the driver has not been certified by Microsoft (see Windows XP screenshot on the right).

New since June 2007 is the requirement of an Audio Fidelity Test equipment (Audio Precision SYS-2722-A-M) for System Submissions.

A company can choose to sign their own drivers rather than go through the WHQL testing process. These drivers would not qualify for the "Certified for Windows" logos, but they would install on 64-bit versions of Windows and install without a warning message on 32-bit versions of Windows Vista or Windows 7. However, it will not install without a warning message on Windows XP.

Some device drivers that have passed the WHQL tests are also made available for download using Windows Update.

When Windows XP detects a new device, for which it does not have built-in drivers, it will show a Found New Hardware Wizard (see screenshot on the right). The only way to avoid the Found New Hardware Wizard from popping up on Windows XP is by pre-installing a WHQL certified driver before the device is plugged in.

The WHQL testing fee Microsoft requires is USD $250 per operating system family. This fee covers both 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) versions, if submitted simultaneously, and is non-refundable. The fee does not include other expenses, such as a Windows Server 2008 x64 license, necessary for running WHQL tests, and a VeriSign certificate, necessary for submitting test results.

Sometimes there is ambiguity over who is responsible for providing drivers, and who they are supported by. This is the case for industry standard devices which are used much more broadly than the PC platform, but for which Microsoft does not supply the drivers. For example there are no WHQL Bluetooth (stereo) headsets.