Learn what you need to transfer a vehicle or vessel title

VEHICLE TITLE INFORMATION:   (DOL link)

All motorized vehicles that will be used on public roads, including forest service roads and beaches, in Washington State must be licensed. If you purchase your vehicle from a Washington State dealer, the dealer will transfer the title for you.

If you purchase a vehicle from a private party, you will need to transfer the title yourself.

You will need:

1. A title, dated and signed by all registered and legal owners; or a notarized Affidavit of Loss.

2. Bill of sale which must include the year, make, model, VIN number, date of sale, purchase price and signature of seller.

3. An odometer statement on vehicles less than 10 years old.

4. A current Washington State Driver's License.* The registered owner must be 18 years of age or older. (*Exceptions may apply)

5. Cash, check or money order.

6. Credit/Debit Card (fee applies).

Please note: Washington State titled vehicles must be transferred within 15 calendar days after purchase day to avoid monetary penalties. A $50 penalty is charged on the 16th day with an additional $2.00 charge per day thereafter until a maximum $125 penalty is reached.

VESSEL TITLE INFORMATION:(DOL link)

Vessel registrations are valid from July 1st through June 30th of the following year. Vessels used in Washington State waters, including those kept at a boat slip, must be registered. If you purchase a vessel from a Washington dealer, the dealer will transfer the title for you.

If you purchase a vessel from a private party, you will need to transfer the title yourself. Depending on the length, use, and power of the vessel, you might not need to title the vessel at all.

You will need:

1. A title, dated and signed by all registered and legal owners; or a notarized Affidavit of Loss.

     (If a boat and trailer are sold together, be sure to have a title for each.)

2. Bill of sale which must include the year, make, model, VIN number, date of sale, purchase price and signature of seller

3. Vessel Data/Use Tax form

4. Current Washington Driver's License (Exceptions may apply)

5. Cash, check or money order

6. Credit / Debit Card (fee applies)