How to Register a Car in Washington After a Private Sale
You have 15 days from date of purchase to register your newly purchased vehicle in Washington. Here is every document you need, what it will cost, and exactly where to go.
Deadline
15 days
Title Fee
$26 (includes title + registration)
Sales Tax
6.5%
Smog Required
No
Required Documents in Washington
- Signed Washington Certificate of Title
- Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old)
- Proof of Washington liability insurance
- Vehicle Report of Sale (submitted by seller to DOL within 5 days)
- Payment for title, registration, and sales tax
Washington Registration Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title transfer fee | $26 (includes title + registration) |
| Annual registration fee | $45 base + varies by county + weight fee |
| Sales / use tax | 6.5% state + local (Seattle area ~10.25% combined) |
| Smog inspection | Not required |
Washington requires the seller to submit a Vehicle Report of Sale (VRS) within 5 days of the sale. This protects the seller from liability for tickets or accidents after the sale. The buyer separately registers and titles the vehicle.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Car in Washington
- 1
Get a signed title from the seller
The seller must sign the back of the Washington Certificate of Title in the appropriate seller section, entering the odometer reading and sale date. Do not accept an unsigned title — it cannot be transferred.
- 2
Obtain a bill of sale
A bill of sale documenting the sale price, date, VIN, and both parties' names is required in Washington to calculate the 6.5% state + local (Seattle area ~10.25% combined) sales/use tax at the DMV. Keep a copy for your records.
- 3
Confirm inspection requirements
Washington Washington does not require statewide emissions testing. Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Spokane counties have had inspection programs — check current requirements in your county.
- 4
Obtain proof of insurance
You must show proof of Washington insurance meeting the state minimum liability requirements. Contact your insurer before completing the purchase — most policies extend to newly acquired vehicles for 30 days.
- 5
Visit Washington DOL
Bring all required documents to Washington DOL. Washington DOL offers online title transfers and registration at dol.wa.gov. Private party transfers can often be completed online with proper documentation. Pay the title fee ($26 (includes title + registration)), registration fee ($45 base + varies by county + weight fee), and applicable sales tax (6.5% state + local (Seattle area ~10.25% combined)).
- 6
Receive your plates and registration card
Washington will issue your registration card immediately or by mail. New plates are typically available same day. Your new title arrives by mail within 4–8 weeks. Washington requires the seller to submit a Vehicle Report of Sale (VRS) within 5 days of the sale. This protects the seller from liability for tickets or accidents after the sale. The buyer separately registers and titles the vehicle.
FAQ — Washington Car Registration
How long do I have to register a car after buying it in Washington?
Washington requires title transfer and registration within 15 days from date of purchase. Operating a vehicle with an untransferred title may result in penalties. The deadline runs from the date of sale on the bill of sale and title.
How much does it cost to register a car in Washington?
Washington registration costs include: title fee $26 (includes title + registration), registration fee $45 base + varies by county + weight fee, and sales/use tax of 6.5% state + local (Seattle area ~10.25% combined). Total out-of-pocket for a $10,000 vehicle purchase is typically $800–$1,500 depending on county.
Do I need a smog check to register a car in Washington?
Generally no. Washington does not require statewide emissions testing. Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Spokane counties have had inspection programs — check current requirements in your county.
Can I register a car online in Washington?
Yes, partially. Washington DOL offers online title transfers and registration at dol.wa.gov. Private party transfers can often be completed online with proper documentation.
What documents do I need to register a used car in Washington?
Required: Signed Washington Certificate of Title; Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old); Proof of Washington liability insurance; Vehicle Report of Sale (submitted by seller to DOL within 5 days); Payment for title, registration, and sales tax.
What if the seller did not give me the title?
You cannot register or legally operate the vehicle without a properly signed title. Contact the seller immediately — they must sign the title over to you. If the seller is unresponsive or the title is lost, the seller must apply for a duplicate title from Washington DOL before the transfer can be completed. Never purchase a vehicle without receiving the signed title at the time of sale.
Need a Washington Bill of Sale?
A proper bill of sale is required to establish the taxable sale price at the Washington DMV.
Create Washington Bill of Sale