Title Transfers & Vehicle Registration

At Lacey Auto Licensing, we make the title and registration process simple, fast, and stress-free. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step with accuracy and efficiency.

New to Washington State?

If you’ve recently moved to Washington, you have 30 days to title, register, and obtain Washington plates for your vehicle. Failure to do so may result in fines starting at $529.

You are considered a Washington resident if you:

• Register to vote
• Receive state benefits
• Apply for a state license at resident rates
• Qualify for in-state tuition

Bring your documents to our office, and we’ll handle the rest.

What You’ll Need for a Title Transfer

To transfer ownership of a vehicle you already own, please bring:

• Valid Washington State Driver’s License (or temporary license with photo ID)
• Vehicle title
  • Original title if no lienholder
  • If a lienholder exists, you must request a copy from them
• If the title is lost:
  • Apply for a duplicate title through the issuing state, or
  • Complete an Affidavit in Lieu of Title

Registering a Vehicle in Your Name

If you purchased a vehicle privately or from an out-of-state dealer, you must transfer the title into your name.

Required Documents:

• Signed Title (all listed owners must sign)
• Bill of Sale (including sale price)
• Odometer Disclosure Statement
• Valid ID for all parties listed on the title
• Proof of Sales Tax Paid (for out-of-state purchases)
• Lienholder Information (if applicable)

Important Deadlines:

• You must transfer the title within 15 days of purchase
• Late penalties start at $50 and increase daily

Quick Titles (Same-Day Service)

Need your title fast? We offer Quick Titles, printed the same day.

• Standard titles take 6–8 weeks by mail
• Quick Title fee: $50
• Must be a Washington-issued title
• Not available for:
  • Out-of-state transfers
  • Branded titles
  • Documents with errors or alterations

Important Seller Responsibility

If you sell or transfer a vehicle, you must file a Report of Sale within 5 days to protect yourself from future liability.

You’ll need:

• Date of sale
• Sale price (or $0 if gifted)
• Buyer’s name and address
• Vehicle VIN

This can be done in person or online. Always keep your receipt.

Additional Services & Information

Trip Permits — $36

• Valid for 3 consecutive days
• Used for:
  • Driving unregistered vehicles
  • Test driving vehicles for sale
  • Transporting vehicles for repairs

Transit Permits — $11

• Valid for 2 selected days
• Used for:
  • Inspections
  • Weight certification trips

Report of Sale — $18

• Required within 5 days of selling a vehicle
• Helps protect against tolls, tickets, and liabilities

Washington State Requirements

Primary Residence

You must maintain a current residential address on file with the Department of Licensing. This ensures accurate tax assessment.

Fair Market Value & Taxes

Vehicle taxes are based on fair market value, not just purchase price.

If your purchase price is below market value, you may need:

• Repair estimates
• Dealer appraisals
• Market valuation reports (KBB, Edmunds, etc.)
• Signed value declaration forms

All values are subject to review by the Department of Revenue.

Why Choose Lacey Auto Licensing?

• Locally owned and operated since 1982
• Fast, accurate, and friendly service
• Experienced in handling even complex transactions
• Walk-in service available — no appointments required
• Trusted by dealerships, businesses, and the local community

If you have questions or want to make your visit even smoother, our team at Lacey Auto Licensing is here to help every step of the way.