Transferring a Car Title in Washington
Steps and fees to transfer a vehicle title in Washington when you buy, sell or inherit a car, and the deadline to register after moving.
Short answer: A buyer (or gift recipient) must transfer ownership within 15 days; late transfers cost $50 on day 16 plus $2 per day after (up to $125). The seller gives the current title signed by all owners; Washington DOL, Buy and register a vehicle
| Transferring a car title | A buyer (or gift recipient) must transfer ownership within 15 days; late transfers cost $50 on day 16 plus $2 per day after (up to $125). The seller gives the current title signed by all owners; the buyer completes a Vehicle Title Application (signed in front of a licensing agent or notary) and an odometer disclosure if applicable, at a vehicle licensing office. Driving an unplated car before registration requires a $36, 3-day trip permit. |
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| Registering after you move | New residents have 30 days after moving to get a Washington driver license and register their vehicles; the driver license must be obtained first. Bring the current title (and odometer reading) to a vehicle licensing office. |
More Washington car insurance & vehicle laws
- Minimum Car Insurance in Washington
- Driving Without Insurance in Washington
- SR-22 Insurance in Washington
- When a Car Is a Total Loss in Washington
- All Washington car insurance & vehicle laws rules
FAQ
How do you transfer a car title in Washington?
A buyer (or gift recipient) must transfer ownership within 15 days; late transfers cost $50 on day 16 plus $2 per day after (up to $125). The seller gives the current title signed by all owners; the buyer completes a Vehicle Title Application (signed in front of a licensing agent or notary) and an odometer disclosure if applicable, at a vehicle licensing office. Driving an unplated car before registration requires a $36, 3-day trip permit.
How long do you have to register your car after moving to Washington?
New residents have 30 days after moving to get a Washington driver license and register their vehicles; the driver license must be obtained first. Bring the current title (and odometer reading) to a vehicle licensing office.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.