Washington DMV Services

🚗 1️⃣ When You Apply

• Within 15 days of purchase or establishing residency, you are required to title and register the vehicle to avoid late fees.
• Dealers usually handle this for you when you buy from a dealership; private sales require you to do it yourself.

📄 2️⃣ Proof of Ownership (Title Documents)

New Vehicle

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) — provided by the dealer.
• Odometer disclosure is typically included on the MCO.

Used Vehicle

• Signed Certificate of Title from the seller
  • The seller must complete the back of the title with the buyer’s name, date of sale, purchase price, and odometer reading (if applicable).
• If a title doesn’t list the purchase price, you may need a bill of sale (Form TD‑420‑065).

Out‑of‑State Vehicle

• Out‑of‑state title signed over to you (or proper seller assignment).

🪪 3. Odometer Disclosure

• Required for vehicles less than 10 years old.
• Enter the odometer reading on the title itself or on a separate disclosure form if necessary.

🧾 4. Proof of Insurance

• Proof of liability insurance that meets Washington’s minimum requirements must be shown before you can register the vehicle.

💰 5. Taxes

• Sales tax, city and county taxes are based on customer’ address

🏙️ 6. New Residents & Out‑of‑State Vehicles

If you move to Washington with a vehicle from another state:

• You must title and register the vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency.
• Bring your out‑of‑state title/registration, proof of insurance, and VIN verification if required.
• Complete a Vehicle Title Application (Form TD‑420‑001) and pay applicable tax/fees.

📋  Checklist 

✔ Original title or MCO
✔ Copy of contract
✔ Bill of sale or Purchase order
✔ Original Odometer disclosure
✔ Proof of liability insurance
✔ Copy of Driver’s License or EIN/FEIN number
✔ CA compliance form
✔ Power of Attorney
✔ Fees