Curbstoning Laws in Washington: Penalties, Warning Signs & Buyer Rights
Curbstoning is the practice of selling multiple vehicles as a private seller while actually operating as an unlicensed dealer. In Washington, this activity is illegal and carries criminal and civil penalties. Buyers who unknowingly purchase from curbstoners often end up with undisclosed damage, bad titles, or no legal recourse.
What Counts as Curbstoning in Washington?
Washington defines dealer activity by the number of vehicles sold per year, the profit motive, and the business-like manner of sales. Even if sales fall below the numeric threshold, demonstrating a pattern of profit-motivated vehicle flipping can trigger dealer licensing requirements.
Penalties for Curbstoning in Washington
Unlicensed dealer activity in Washington carries criminal and civil penalties including fines, potential jail time, and civil enforcement by the state DMV and attorney general. Penalties escalate for repeat violations.
Your Rights as a Buyer in Washington
If you purchased a vehicle from a curbstoner in Washington, you may have claims under state consumer protection law. Document everything — ads, text messages, the bill of sale, and any vehicle defects — and consult the Washington attorney general's consumer protection office.
How to Report Curbstoning in Washington
Report suspected curbstoning to Washington's DMV enforcement division. Include the seller's name and contact information, VINs of vehicles sold, links to online ads, and any documentation you have. Anonymous reports are typically accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is curbstoning and is it illegal in Washington?
Curbstoning is illegal in all 50 states. In Washington, acting as an unlicensed dealer can result in misdemeanor charges, civil fines, and in serious cases, felony prosecution. Contact Washington DMV for current penalties.
How many cars can you sell per year in Washington without a dealer license?
Most states allow 4–5 private vehicle sales per year without a dealer license, but the exact threshold varies. Exceeding it — especially with profit as the motive — can trigger dealer licensing requirements and enforcement action in Washington.
What can I do if I was defrauded by a curbstoner in Washington?
File a complaint with Washington DMV and the state attorney general's consumer protection office. Depending on the circumstances, you may have claims under Washington's consumer protection statutes, which often allow recovery of actual damages and attorney fees.
How do I report an illegal dealer in Washington?
Report curbstoning to Washington's DMV or motor vehicle enforcement agency. Include the seller's contact information, the VIN, any online ads you found, and any documentation from the sale.
What are the biggest risks of buying from a curbstoner in Washington?
Buying from a curbstoner means no warranty, no buyer protections, and high risk of title defects including salvage, flood damage, or undisclosed liens. As-is private sale rules in most states leave buyers with little recourse.
Protect yourself with a proper bill of sale when buying from any private seller in Washington.
Create a Washington Bill of Sale