When you move to Washington State, you have
30 days to register your vehicle with the
Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). This is a strict deadline, and driving an out-of-state vehicle beyond 30 days of establishing residency is a violation.
Here is what you need to bring to your local DOL office or licensing subagency:
- Your current out-of-state title
- Proof of Washington State address (lease, utility bill, or bank statement)
- A completed vehicle application form
- Payment for title and registration fees
Washington State does
not require a standard vehicle emissions test for most counties. However, vehicles registered in
Clark County (Vancouver area) must pass an emissions inspection before registration. Washington also does not require a VIN inspection for most out-of-state transfers, though the DOL may request one if the title history is unclear.
Washington has a
sales tax on vehicle purchases, and if you purchased your vehicle in a state with lower or no sales tax, you may owe a use tax difference upon registration. Check the DOL website at
dol.wa.gov for current fee schedules and county-specific requirements before your appointment.