Expired Registration in Washington
Motor vehicle registration must be maintained by all vehicle owners in Washington to legally operate their vehicles on public roadways. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) oversees all vehicle registration processes throughout the state. The Washington State Patrol enforces compliance with registration statutes on state highways and roads.
State Code Provisions in Washington
Washington establishes vehicle registration requirements under Title 46 (Motor Vehicles) of the Revised Code of Washington. Chapter 46.16A (Registration) particularly governs registration processes, display requirements, sanctions for noncompliance, and enforcement procedures.
Registration Terms and Expiration in Washington
Registration Renewal System
Washington operates an annual registration system for motor vehicles. Vehicle registrations, commonly referred to as "tabs," expire yearly and must be renewed to maintain a valid registration status.
Standard Vehicle Registration:
- Vehicle registrations expire each year on a date assigned by the Department of Licensing
- The expiration date remains consistent from year to year for each vehicle
- Vehicle owners receive renewal notices prior to the expiration date
- Example: A vehicle with registration expiring on May 31 must be renewed on or before May 31 each year; the registration expires at midnight on May 31
There is no grace period for expired registration in Washington. Once registration expires, vehicle owners may not legally operate the vehicle on public roads until registration is renewed, as established in RCW 46.16A.030.
Penalties for Expired Registration in Washington
Washington distinguishes between administrative penalties and traffic violations related to expired registration. The state does not assess administrative late fees for renewing expired registration at vehicle licensing offices; penalties apply when vehicle operators are cited for operating with expired registration on public highways.
Administrative Penalties
Washington does not assess administrative late fees for renewing expired registration. Vehicle owners who renew expired registration pay only the standard registration fees without additional penalties or surcharges when completing renewal at a vehicle licensing office.
Traffic Violations
Operating a motor vehicle on Washington public highways with expired registration constitutes a traffic infraction under state law. Penalties apply when law enforcement cites operators for this violation.
Violations and Infractions:
| Statute | Violation | Classification | Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| RCW 46.16A.030(5) | Failure to renew expired registration before operating vehicle | Traffic Infraction | Fine determined by court |
| RCW 46.16A.030(4) | Failure to make initial registration before operating vehicle | Traffic Infraction | $529 (non-reducible) |
Criminal Penalties for Evasion:
RCW 46.16A.030(6) establishes that it is a gross misdemeanor for Washington residents to register vehicles in another state to evade payment of taxes or vehicle license fees. Penalties include:
- First Offense: Up to 364 days in jail, $529 fine plu,s $1,000 penalty, and payment of all delinquent taxes and fees
- Second or Subsequent Offense: Up to 364 days in jail, $529 fine plus $5,000 penalty, and payment of all delinquent taxes and fees
Government Agencies
Washington State Department of Licensing
PO Box 9020
Olympia, WA 98507-9020
Phone: (360) 902-3770
Official Website: Washington DOL
Washington State Patrol
210 11th Ave SE
PO Box 42600
Olympia, Washington 98501
Phone: (360) 596-4000
Official Website: Washington State Patrol
