Washington State dealers issue temporary permits for new vehicle purchases while permanent plates are processed. Private-party buyers can typically drive on the vehicle’s existing tabs until completing registration, because Washington tabs stay with the vehicle’s registration. Here is how every buying scenario works.
How Long Is a Washington Temporary Permit Valid?
Washington dealer-issued temporary permits are valid for the period needed to complete registration, typically up to 45 days from the date of purchase, though the specific period is printed on the permit. Within that window, complete title transfer and registration at a vehicle licensing subagent or county auditor’s office.
Who Issues Washington Temporary Permits?
Licensed Washington Dealers
Licensed Washington dealers issue temporary permits at the point of sale. The permit allows you to drive the vehicle while the dealer processes your title paperwork and you complete permanent registration. Washington registration is handled through vehicle licensing subagents rather than a centralized DMV.
Vehicle Licensing Subagents — Private-Party Purchases
For private-party purchases, temporary permits can be obtained from vehicle licensing subagents or county auditor’s offices. Visit with all required documents to obtain a permit or complete full registration in a single visit.
What If I Buy From a Private Seller in Washington?
Washington vehicle registration and tabs expire when ownership transfers. The seller’s tabs are tied to their registration, once the vehicle is sold, the registration is no longer valid for the new owner. The seller’s tabs remain on the vehicle but are not valid for the buyer to drive on.
Visit a vehicle licensing subagent or county auditor’s office immediately after purchase to complete title transfer and registration. Washington eliminated its inspection requirement in 2020, so no inspection is needed before registering a privately purchased vehicle.
Documents to Bring to the Subagent
- Original title signed and assigned by the seller — all liens released
- Bill of sale with purchase price, date, and odometer reading
- Valid Washington driver’s license or state ID
- Proof of current Washington liability insurance
- Payment for title transfer fees, registration fees, vehicle weight fee, and applicable taxes
- Proof of Washington residency address — needed to ensure correct DOL records and MVET calculation
Sound Transit MVET at Initial Registration
When you register a newly purchased vehicle in Washington for the first time, you will be assessed the Sound Transit Motor Vehicle Excise Tax (MVET) if your registration address is within the Sound Transit district (most of King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties). This is based on the vehicle’s depreciated value. Calculate your estimated MVET at dol.wa.gov before visiting the subagent to avoid surprises.
Display Requirements for Washington Temporary Permits
Display the temporary permit at the rear of the vehicle in the license plate bracket, covering the same position as the permanent rear plate. All information must be clearly visible. Do not display inside the rear window, fold, cover, or alter the permit.
New Washington Residents
New Washington residents must register their vehicles with the DOL within 30 days of establishing Washington residency. Your out-of-state registration and plates remain valid during this 30-day window. After completing Washington registration, Washington plates and tabs are issued and your out-of-state plates must be removed.