If you buy a car from an out-of-state dealer in Washington, you may be eligible to receive a temporary license plate. Unfortunately, many people take advantage of this system by creating fraudulent license plates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) issues a temporary permit <\/a>along with temporary cardboard plates to drivers in certain situations. These cardboard plates are generally valid for up to 60 days, although Washington may be willing to extend that period depending on the case. Learn more: How to check available custom license plates<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The only way to obtain a legitimate temporary license plate in Washington is to apply for one at a Washington vehicle licensing office. Assuming your application is approved, they will generate a permit and provide you with the cardboard plates. Tax, title, and license fees are due once the state of Washington grants your temporary registration. However, the fee for the license plate itself won\u2019t be due until you clear the temporary designation and receive your permanent plates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The base license plate fee is $43.50, although you\u2019re likely to pay more than that. Residents of Seattle must pay an additional $80 to register their vehicle, while those living in either Spokane or Wenatchee must pay $20 more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The size of your car will also determine how much you pay to register, with heavier vehicles costing more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Note: If your vehicle is eligible for a gross weight license, you\u2019re required to purchase a minimum of two months\u2019 gross weight license to correspond with the duration of your temporary plates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should never drive a car without plates in Washington, and most in-state dealers should be able to register your new vehicle or used car at the dealership. If you only need to get a new car home, you can consider applying through the Department of Licensing (DOL) for a three-day trip permit.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like most states, Washington has to be very cautious about providing temporary tags. Some people create false temporary plates to avoid paying traffic violation fees or use them to commit more serious crimes.
Some people living in Washington also utilize fraudulent plates to avoid paying state taxes. To dissuade people from doing this, Washington has implemented a $1,500 fine for failing to properly register a vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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You\u2019ll be able to apply for temporary plates if you buy a motor vehicle from an out-of-state dealership that is not yet registered in Washington. The state expects the documents needed to properly register the vehicle to be available within 60 days.
If you need to replace your cardboard license plates at any point, you can do so at a Washington vehicle licensing office.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRegistration fees in Washington<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Driving a car without plates in Washington<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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