Do You Need Insurance to Register a Car in Washington in 2025

Washington law mandates motor vehicle liability insurance for all vehicles operated on public roadways. Under the Revised Code of Washington Title 46, Chapters 29 and 30, vehicle owners must maintain financial responsibility before operating a motor vehicle in the state. The Washington State Department of Licensing administers vehicle registration and enforces insurance compliance through the state's Mandatory Liability Insurance Law.

Legal Requirement for Insurance Coverage

The Revised Code of Washington establishes financial responsibility requirements for all motor vehicles registered in Washington. Under RCW 46.30.020, no person may operate a motor vehicle subject to registration in Washington unless the person maintains motor vehicle liability insurance with minimum coverage amounts, is self-insured, is covered by a certificate of deposit, or is covered by a liability bond. Washington requires all drivers to carry mandatory insurance or an approved alternative form of financial responsibility at all times while operating a vehicle.

Operating a vehicle without required insurance may result in suspension of the driver's license, fines, and vehicle impoundment. The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner regulates insurance companies and handles consumer complaints related to automobile insurance.

Washington State Department of Licensing
PO Box 9020, Olympia, WA 98507-9020
Phone: (360) 902-3900
Official Website: Washington State Department of Licensing

Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements

RCW 46.29.090 establishes minimum amounts for motor vehicle liability insurance coverage. The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner regulates insurance companies operating in the state. Washington requires drivers to maintain liability insurance coverage that meets or exceeds statutory minimum amounts.

The minimum coverage requirements apply to third-party liability insurance for bodily injury and property damage. Washington does not mandate first-party medical payments coverage or personal injury protection.

Alternative methods of demonstrating financial responsibility include a certificate of deposit of at least $60,000 filed with the Department of Licensing, a liability bond of at least $60,000 issued by a surety company authorized to do business in Washington, or qualification as a self-insurer with 26 or more vehicles approved by the Department of Licensing.

Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner
PO Box 40255, Olympia, WA 98504-0255
Phone: (360) 725-7000
Official Website: Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Proof of Insurance Documents

Washington requires vehicle operators to carry proof of financial responsibility at all times while operating a motor vehicle. Vehicle owners must provide acceptable documentation when requested by law enforcement officers. The following formats are accepted:

• An insurance identification card issued by an insurance company licensed in Washington, showing the policy number, effective date, expiration date, and vehicle description or insured driver name
• The policy declarations page shows coverage effective dates and policy information
• A self-insurance certificate issued by the Department of Licensing for vehicle owners with 26 or more vehicles
• Electronic proof of insurance displayed on a portable electronic device such as a smartphone or tablet
• A certificate of deposit confirmation issued by the Department of Licensing
• Proof of liability bond issued by an authorized surety company

Failure to display proof of financial responsibility when requested by law enforcement creates a presumption that the driver does not have motor vehicle insurance and is a traffic infraction subject to penalties.

Exceptions to Insurance Requirements

Limited exceptions to the financial responsibility requirement exist under Washington law:

• Mopeds as defined in state law
• Horseless carriages over 40 years old registered with collector vehicle plates
• Motor vehicles owned by the state or publicly-owned vehicles
• Motor vehicles registered with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission as common or contract carriers
• Motor-driven cycles and wheeled all-terrain vehicles as defined in state law
• Vehicles registered in another state that are properly insured according to that state's requirements when temporarily operated in Washington

Insurance Requirements for Vehicle Registration

The Washington State Department of Licensing verifies insurance coverage before processing vehicle registration applications and renewals. Vehicle owners must provide proof of insurance or alternative financial responsibility when registering a vehicle for the first time in Washington or when renewing an existing registration.

New Washington residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency in the state. A person is considered a Washington resident upon moving to the state, accepting employment, or establishing a place of residence. New residents must obtain Washington insurance coverage meeting state minimum requirements or establish alternative financial responsibility before completing vehicle registration.

Washington motorists may renew vehicle registration online through the Department of Licensing License Express system, by mail using a renewal notice, or in person at vehicle licensing offices. The Department of Licensing monitors insurance coverage through notifications from insurance companies.

Vehicle owners whose insurance is canceled or lapses will have their driver's license suspended. The Department of Licensing will mail a suspension letter when notified by the insurance company. The suspension remains in effect until the insurance company notifies the Department of Licensing that the vehicle owner has complied with insurance requirements. Vehicle owners cannot obtain a restricted license during an insurance-related suspension and may not drive in Washington with an out-of-state license while under suspension.