❗️Quick Info: After moving to Washington, ensure you obtain your Washington driver’s license within 30 days and register your vehicle within the same timeframe.
From bustling cities like Seattle to the serene landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula, Washington State offers an unparalleled blend of nature and urban excitement. As you embark on your new journey in this evergreen state, acquiring your driver’s license and vehicle registration is a pivotal step. Not only does it ensure compliance with state laws, but it also aids in making you feel right at home in the Washington community. Here’s how:
Process for Obtaining a License in Washington
You have two stops in the license & registration process. Your first will be a Washington Licensing Office.
- Visit a License Office: Within 30 days of becoming a Washington resident, schedule an appointment to visit a Driver’s License office.
- Documentation: Provide your valid out-of-state driver’s license (which will be hole-punched and returned), proof of identity, social security card, two proofs of Washington residency, and the necessary fee.
- Eye Examination: Bring corrective lenses if required. All new applicants must undergo an eye examination. You can skip the knowledge and skills test if your out-of-state license is valid.
- Cost: Obtaining a Washington driver’s license costs $89.
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Vehicle Registration in Washington
A Washington driver’s license is mandatory to register a vehicle in Washington.
- Visit the Vehicle License Office: Ensure that within 30 days of moving, you visit a Washington vehicle licensing center (separate from the driver’s license center).
- Read your Odometer: Take a photo of your odometer prior to entering the licensing center. Either your title or a title disclosure form will require it.
- Documentation: Provide proof of your vehicle’s title, the latest odometer reading, evidence of the Purchase and Use or Sales tax paid to your previous state, and the registration fee. An agent will complete the Vehicle Title Application form for you in person.
- Cost: Be prepared to pay a title and registration filing fee of $10, a $30 license tab fee, a $23 service fee, and a $50 plate fee when titling and registering an out-of-state vehicle in Washington.
Emissions and Safety Testing
Breathe easy; Emissions and safety testing is not required in Washington state.
Conclusion
Acquiring your Washington license plate and driver’s license isn’t just about adhering to state regulations; it’s about planting your roots and becoming an integral part of the Washington community. As you explore the scenic drives of the Pacific Northwest or the vibrant neighborhoods of its cities, having your state credentials symbolizes your commitment to your new home. Welcome to Washington; enjoy every mile of your journey here!
