How To Get a Car Title in Washington 2026
Washington State requires certificates of title for all motor vehicles, trailers, and certain motor-driven cycles operated within the state under RCW 46.12. New residents must obtain a Washington title within 30 days of establishing residency. The Washington State Department of Licensing administers the vehicle titling program through a network of county offices and authorized subagents.
Where to Apply for a Washington Certificate of Title
Washington residents may submit title applications through multiple authorized locations:
- County Vehicle Licensing Offices – Operated in all 39 Washington counties
- Subagent Offices – Private businesses authorized by the Department of Licensing to process vehicle transactions
- Quick Title Offices – Designated locations offering expedited same-day or next-day title processing
- Mail Submission – Applications may be mailed directly to the Application and Issuance Department for standard processing
Required Documents for Title Application in Washington
Applicants must provide specific documentation to complete a Washington vehicle title application. The Department of Licensing verifies all submitted materials before issuing certificates of title.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Current Certificate of Title | Original title with properly executed seller assignment, or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin for new vehicles |
| Vehicle Title Application | Completed Form 420-001 with all required fields, including license plate number, vehicle identification number, and primary color |
| Valid State-Issued Identification | Washington driver's license, Washington state identification card, or other government-issued photo identification |
| Proof of Insurance | Current Washington auto insurance verification showing minimum liability coverage |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Depending on the nature of the transaction, supplementary documents may be necessary:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Required for vehicles model year 2011 and newer | Exemption applies to vehicles model year 2010 and older |
| Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale | Documents purchase price for use tax calculation | Form 420-065 available from Department of Licensing |
| Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest | Used when original title is unavailable | Form 420-040 required for replacement title applications |
| Affidavit of Inheritance | Establishes ownership through estate transfer | Form 420-041 necessary for inheritance transfers |
| VIN Inspection Certificate | Verifies vehicle identification number authenticity | Required for out-of-state vehicles or those without prior Washington registration |
| Lien Release Documentation | Shows satisfaction of any security interests | Must be provided by lienholder with proper signatures |
| Power of Attorney | Authorizes representative to act on owner's behalf | Notarization required for out-of-state powers of attorney |
Washington Title Fees and Costs
The Washington State Legislature establishes title and registration fees through statute. Fee amounts are deposited into various state transportation funds.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Title Filing Fee | $6.50 |
| Title Service Fee | $18.00 |
| Replacement Certificate of Title | $39.50 |
| Quick Title Processing Surcharge | $50.00 |
| License Plate Technology Fee | $0.25 |
| License Service Fee | $0.75 |
Additional Processing Fees
Vehicle owners should anticipate additional charges beyond base title fees:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Registration (base) | $43.25 and up | Varies by vehicle weight, type, and value |
| Use Tax | 6.8% to 10.4% | Applied to purchase price; rate varies by county and city |
| Trip Permit (temporary authorization) | $36.00 | Valid for three consecutive days ($25 permit plus $11 service fee) |
| Registration Renewal Service Fee | $11.00 | Charged at time of registration renewal or transit permit issuance |
| License Plate Issuance | Varies | Dependent on plate type selected |
| Electric Vehicle Fee | $150.00 annually | Applied to battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles; expires June 30, 2026 |
| Transportation Electrification Fee | $75.00 annually | Additional fee for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles; expires June 30, 2026. Effective July 1, 2026, qualifying EVs and PHEVs pay a Road Usage Charge of $0.02 per mile instead (SB 5444) |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Proper Ownership Documentation
Acquire the current certificate of title with all seller signatures properly executed in the assignment section. If purchasing from a dealer, request the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin for new vehicles. Secure lien release documentation if the vehicle has an outstanding security interest recorded.
Step 2: Complete Required Application Forms
Fill out the Vehicle Title Application with accurate information, including the vehicle identification number, odometer reading (for model year 2011 and newer), and all owner details. Complete the Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale and document the actual purchase price paid. Do not sign the application form until you present it to a licensing agent or notary public.
Step 3: Assemble Supporting Documents
Gather proof of valid Washington automobile insurance, government-issued identification for all registered owners, and any additional required affidavits or certifications. For vehicles titled out of state, obtain a VIN inspection certificate from law enforcement or an authorized inspection facility. Calculate the estimated use tax based on the purchase price and your jurisdiction's combined state and local rate.
Step 4: Submit Application at Licensing Office
Visit a county vehicle licensing office, subagent location, or Quick Title office during business hours. Present all documentation to the licensing agent, who will review materials for completeness and accuracy. Sign the title application in the presence of the agent (notarization is not required when signed before a Washington licensing agent). Pay all applicable fees using cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card.
Step 5: Receive Title Certificate
For standard processing, the Department of Licensing will mail the certificate of title to the registered owner's address within 4 to 6 weeks. If a lien is recorded, the title will be sent directly to the lienholder. Quick Title service provides same-day or next-day issuance at participating offices for an additional $50.00 surcharge (total Quick Title cost for vehicles is $89.50, consisting of the $39.50 replacement title fee plus the $50.00 surcharge). Owners may verify title status through the Department of Licensing online portal or by contacting their county vehicle licensing office.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Certain vehicles and transactions are exempt from Washington's certificate of title requirements:
- Motor vehicles owned and operated by the federal government or its agencies
- Dealer inventory vehicles held for resale purposes and properly licensed as dealer stock
- Farm tractors, implements of husbandry, and other agricultural equipment used exclusively for farming operations
- Off-road vehicles registered under RCW 46.09, including ORVs, ATVs, and snowmobiles
- Non-highway vehicles and special mobile equipment not designed for highway use
- Historic military vehicles meeting criteria established in RCW 46.18.255
- Certain government-owned vehicles operated by state agencies, counties, and municipalities
- Trailers and semitrailers meeting specific weight and use exemptions under state regulations
Contact Information
For assistance with title applications, fee information, or general inquiries regarding vehicle titling procedures, contact the Washington State Department of Licensing.
Washington State Department of Licensing
Vehicle Services Division
P.O. Box 9909, Olympia, WA 98507–8500
Phone: (360) 902–3900
Official Website: Department of Licensing
