Register Car in Washington

General Requirements

Registration Renewal

If you've previously registered your vehicle in the state of Washington and simply need information on renewing, check our section on registration renewals.

First-Time Registration

Typical reasons for registering a car for the first time in Washington include:

• Purchase of a new or used vehicle

• Moving to the state

• Receiving a vehicle as a gift or inheritance

If you've recently moved to Washington, you have 30 days to update your registration and driver's license.

When you buy a car, or receive one as a gift, you must register it within 15 days. If you let the deadline pass, you'll be charged an extra $25 on the 16th day, as well as an additional $2 per day after that―up to a maximum penalty of $125.

Get Insurance

Washington has a mandatory auto insurance law, which states that you must carry a minimum amount of liability coverage. While proof of insurance is not required when registering your vehicle, you are not legally allowed to drive without it. If you are looking for a new policy, compare companies and quotes online at our Insurance Center.

Prepare the Paperwork

If you've purchased a car from a licensed dealer, the dealer typically takes care of the title and registration paperwork. You'll have a temporary placard on your car that allows you to pull out of the parking lot, but you should receive your official registration within 30 days.

Buying a car from a private party means the paperwork responsibility is all yours. In addition to registering the vehicle, you'll also need to transfer the title into your name.

To register a car after purchasing from a private party, receiving it as a gift, or becoming a new resident of Washington, you need:

1. Properly signed title. A title must accompany all registration applications, and you must record the mileage if the vehicle is changing owners. If the title is lost or destroyed, you (or the previous owner) must apply for a new title.
2. Bill of sale, required only if the vehicle is changing owners. The Department of Licensing (DOL) will use this document to calculate your use tax, detailed in the next section below.
3. Report of emissions testing, required only if you live in an urban area of Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish, or Spokane counties. You may also need this if you purchased a car from out of state. Get more information in our Smog & Emissions section.
4. A completed and notarized Vehicle Certificate of Ownership Application, required only if you are new to the state of Washington, or if you're already a resident but mailing in your paperwork. The mailing address is:

• Vehicle Licensing

• Department of Licensing

• PO Box 9909

• Olympia, WA 98507-9909

Before you buy a car from a private party, order a vehicle history report for the car you're interested in. The report can go a long way in price negotiations, and also in ensuring that you're not buying a problem vehicle.

Calculate the Fees

Washington calculates registration fees based on a number of factors, including weight of the vehicle, where you live, and what type of license plate you want. Check out the DOL's online fee information, or contact your local vehicle licensing office for a more accurate estimate for your specific situation. Your total fees typically include the following:

• Registration fees, which vary by vehicle type and weight

• Sales and/or use tax, if you are registering a newly purchased vehicle

• Subagent fee of $4, if you do not file paperwork at a county auditor

• Regional Transit Authority (RTA) tax, applicable only to residents of King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties

• $15 fee to verify the Vehicle Identification Number of a vehicle, if registering in the state for the first time

• Location transportation benefit district fees, if required by your city or county

• Title fees, if you're applying for a new title

• License plate fees, if you want personalized or specialty plates

Go to the DMV

Washington accepts registration applications in person at any vehicle licensing office or by mail. The mailing address is:

• Vehicle Licensing

• Department of Licensing

• PO Box 9909

• Olympia, WA 98507-9909

If you mail in your paperwork, you'll need to include the exact fees for your vehicle registration. Contact your local vehicle licensing office or call the DOL at (360) 902-3770, and choose Option 5.

License Plates

At the time of registration, you'll receive standard license plates and tabs. If you want personalized or specialty plates, an additional charge will apply. You can also apply for disabled plates or placards if you need them. Learn more in our section on license plates.

Personalize those special or standard plates even more by ordering a frame online. Whether you're into sports, crafts, a charity, or a particular hobby, you'll find something that suits your style.

Affix Your Stickers

Put the tabs on your license plate as soon as you receive them. Simply follow the instructions on the card to place them correctly.

Get a Tax Deduction

Although Washington doesn't calculate registration fees based on the value of the vehicle, the state does charge a use tax in some vehicle purchases. This tax is based on the value of the vehicle and, according to IRS regulations, might be tax-deductible. Check out the state's use tax information online, or consult the "Personal Property Taxes" section on page 146 of IRS Publication 17 for full details.

For further details or questions―or to make sure you're getting the full deduction―it's a good idea to talk to a tax attorney in your area.

Safely Get on Your Way

So you've titled and registered your car, and you're ready to hit the road. Before you step on the gas, however, make sure you're prepared for anything that comes your way.

Stay confident while traveling by enrolling in a roadside assistance program. Whether you need a tire repair or a tow after a breakdown, you won't be left stranded. Keep a car emergency kit in the vehicle at all times, and make sure it includes first aid supplies at the very least.

If you must talk on the phone while driving, invest in a hands-free headset for the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other drivers. And if you have children, secure them at all times in child safety seats that meet federal requirements.

No matter how well prepared they are, most drivers eventually need the services of a good auto mechanic. Find one that you trust before you need him. And if your warranty is close to running out, or you want extra coverage, consider purchasing an after-market auto warranty that meets your needs.

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