Show All Answers

1. How much will it cost to renew my vehicle or vessel tabs?

Fees are different for every situation and are calculated in many ways. Everyone starts with the basic fee of $43.25 and things like vehicle weight, location, and taxes determine your final amount.

For vehicle and vessel fees, please visit Washington State Dept. Of Licensing to calculate tab fees.

2. How much does it cost to transfer a vehicle into my name?

The exact amount of your vehicle title and registration fees depend of several factors: 

• Vehicle type
• Vehicle weight
• Where you live
• License plate type

For the current Washington State Dept. of Licensing fee schedule, please visit dol.wa.gov. 

3. What documents are needed to transfer my vehicle into my name?

If you are a resident to Washington or have purchased a vehicle, you must present the following documents to a license agency in order to obtain Washington plates, registration, and title:

• The Vehicle Title properly released by the previous owner. 
• A Bill of Sale stating the date of purchase and full purchase price, signed by the previous owner.
• A completed Odometer Disclosure Statement if the vehicle is less than 10 years old.
• Valid driver's license. 

Some transfers may require additional documents and possibly a current emission test. If you have additional questions just give us a call or come in the office and let us help you.

4. How many days do I have to transfer a vehicle I purchased into my name?

Washington titled vehicles must be registered to the new owner within fifteen (15) days after purchase date to avoid penalty fees. The penalty can reach as high as $125 depending on how late the transfer occurs. DO NOT WAIT to transfer the vehicle.

5. Can I transfer my vehicle plates to a new vehicle?

You can transfer your vehicle license plates to another vehicle if the new vehicle is:

1. Titled and registered in your name; AND
2. Registered in Washington State; AND
3. Plates are transferred from/to a vehicle to equal type.

6. Why should I submit a report of sale?

Reporting protects you from being held liable for towing charges or civil and criminal liabilities incurred by the new owner. 

For information about sellers reports and how it protects you, please visit the Washington State Department of Licensing information page. 

When selling a vehicle, it is important to remove license plates for the vehicle. Removing your license plates encourages the new owner to transfer ownership. Leaving the plates increases your risk of impound costs, traffic infractions, Good to Go! tickets, and other liabilities.

7. Can someone else renew my tabs for me?

Yes, provided they have all the necessary information. This includes:

• Same last name and/or address as shown on the vehicle record OR
• Signed written authorization which includes your name and the vehicle information.

8. Am I able to trade vehicles?

If the vehicles are "property of a like kind", then yes. Contact the licensing office for more information and to acquire a Bill of Trade.