How to Title a Private Car Sale in Washington

Step by step

1. 1

   Check the title before you pay

   The seller gives you the current title, signed by everyone listed on it. DOL suggests calling 360-902-3770 to confirm the title is valid and clear of liens.

   DOL recommends meeting the seller at a vehicle licensing office to do the paperwork. If you will drive the car without plates before then, buy a 3-day trip permit in person at a vehicle licensing office first.

2. 2

   Complete the bill of sale and odometer disclosure

   You and the seller fill out the Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale. The sale price on it is used to figure your use tax.

   For a 2011 or newer model, complete the odometer disclosure on the title. Older models are exempt.

3. 3

   Fill out the Vehicle Title Application

   Do not sign it until you are in front of a licensing agent, who can notarize it. If you sign it before you go, sign it in front of a notary.

4. 4

   Transfer the title within 15 days

   You have 15 days after the sale. The penalty is $50 on the 16th day and $2 a day after that, up to $125.

   A vehicle licensing office mails the title in 6 to 8 weeks. A Quick Title office issues it right away for $50 more.

5. 5

   Pay the use tax, fees, and plates

   Use tax is the 7.0% state rate (6.5% plus the 0.5% motor vehicle tax) plus the local rate where you live, 1.1% to 4.2% from October 1 to December 31, 2026. It is figured on fair market value, but your price is accepted if it is no more than 20% below fair market value or the value is under $7,500. Above $102,000, an 8% luxury tax applies to the amount over that figure.

   The title is $39.50 ($15 application, $6.50 filing, and $18 service). Tabs are $82.75 a year up to 4,000 lbs and $112.75 from 4,001 to 6,000 lbs. You need new plates: $50 per plate plus $2 per plate for reflectivity ($104 for a car), or $10 to move a plate you already own.