How to Get a Title for an Abandoned Vehicle in Washington
Washington has a 10–30 days wait period before you can begin the title process. Here is everything a towing company, storage facility, or property owner needs to know.
Quick Reference
Wait Period & Reporting
10–30 days wait required. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
Notifying the Owner
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder
Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
Lienholder Rights
Lienholder must be notified and given time to respond
Failure to notify a lienholder properly can void the entire abandoned vehicle title process.
The Title Application Process
Form/Program: Abandoned Vehicle Title Application
Process varies by state. Typically initiated by a towing company, storage facility, or property owner.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Must follow state-specific notice and wait period requirements
- All liens must be resolved before a clean title can issue
- Storage or towing facility typically must be licensed
Washington-Specific Note
Washington-Specific Facts for Abandoned Vehicle Title
Washington Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In Washington, the title transfer fee is $12 and registration costs $30 plus RTA tax in certain areas. Vehicle sales are subject to 6.5% state sales tax plus local taxes (up to ~10.4%). Washington does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in Washington — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.
- Department of Licensing (DOL) handles titles and registration
- Emissions testing required in parts of King, Pierce, Snohomish, Clark, and Spokane counties
- Use tax applies to private party purchases
- Electric vehicle fee of $225 per year
Washington sales tax on vehicle purchases
Washington has a 6.5% state sales tax rate. 6.5% state plus local taxes (total up to ~10.4%). Private-party vehicle sales in Washington are subject to sales tax. Use tax applies to private party vehicle purchases. The title transfer fee is $12.
Washington bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 2,241 bill of sale documents for Washington transactions, with 60 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More Washington Vehicle Guides
- Extended Warranty Cancellation in Washington
- Fleet Vehicle Sale in Washington
- GAP Insurance Claim in Washington
- Government Surplus Vehicle in Washington
- Hit-and-Run Vehicle Claim in Washington
- Hold Harmless Vehicle Sale in Washington
Each guide is written specifically for Washington laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in Washington?
Washington requires a 10–30 days wait period. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
How do I notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle in Washington?
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder. Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
How much does it cost to get an abandoned vehicle title in Washington?
DMV fees + towing and storage charges. Costs vary widely by state and accumulate with each day in storage.
How long does the abandoned vehicle title process take in Washington?
45–90 days. Process includes wait periods, notice periods, and DMV processing time.
Does Washington require a surety bond for an abandoned vehicle title?
Not for the standard process. Some states require a surety bond if the title history is unclear or the vehicle has a prior out-of-state registration.
Selling the Vehicle After You Get Title?
Create a compliant Washington bill of sale to protect yourself in the transaction.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: State DMV. Abandoned vehicle laws change frequently — verify current wait periods with your state DMV.