Private-party transfer in Washington: closing the sale without surprises
Steps for buyer and seller, documents, payment and state-specific plate conditions.
A private sale calls for checking the title, payment, plate and applicable state procedures. This guide is written for both sides of the table, with Washington's rules.
The place and the moment
Ask the titling office (At a vehicle licensing office, which in Washington are county or DOL subagent offices. They are walk-in only. A Quick Title office gives you the title the same day for an extra $50, but it is not available for cars with "WA Rebuilt" on the title, insurance- or wrecker-destroyed cars, or cars reported stolen. You can also apply by mail, especially if you bought out of state) in advance about accepted signatures, documents, appointments and payments. Where available, coordinate the handover with that office and verify payment with the issuing bank before releasing the car or documents.
Step by step
| # | Seller | Buyer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Confirm the title is in your name and lien-free. If there is a loan, get the bank's release before listing. | Ask for the VIN and check title, recalls and history before seeing the car. |
| 2 | Allow an independent inspection. Agree in writing how and when it will take place. | Pre-purchase inspection with your own mechanic. |
| 3 | Agree the total price in writing on a bill of sale: VIN, year, make, model, price, date, names, signatures. Two copies. | Same. The bill of sale is your proof of price for the tax. |
| 4 | On the title: your signature, the buyer's name and address, price, date and the applicable odometer disclosure, including exemptions and any required mileage-discrepancy indicators. Odometer statement on the title for model year 2011 or newer; 2010 and older are exempt (RCW 46.12.665 and federal law, 49 CFR 580). | Check that the VIN on the title is the car's and that the person signing is the titled owner. |
| 5 | Receive payment: cashier's check verified at the issuing bank, confirmed transfer, or cash inside the bank. | Pay only when the signed title is in your hand. |
| 6 | Handle the seller's plate. Follow the state conditions below for removal, transfer or return. | Confirm the registration, permit and plate you need before driving; do not assume you can use the seller's. |
| 7 | Listed seller-process document: TD-420-062 (Vehicle Report of Sale) or online; $18 fee by mail; RCW 46.12.650(2) says 5 business days, the DOL sell page says 5 days — file within 5 calendar days to stay inside both. Follow the timing and conditions in the state process below; keep your copy. | Confirm the required documents, fees, taxes and deadline with the agency, including the event that starts the deadline. Bring the applicable insurance or financial-responsibility documents. |
| 8 | Ask your insurer when to cancel or transfer coverage, and first confirm the registration and plate conditions. | Confirm the coverage or proof of financial responsibility required for your transaction and before driving. |
The plate in Washington
The seller removes the plates: they can move them to another vehicle of the same type ($10) or turn them in at a licensing office. The buyer cannot use them and gets new plates at transfer. If you don't go to the office together and will drive the car without plates, buy a 3-day trip permit first.
What each one must bring
Seller
- Title (or printout of the electronic one)
- Photo ID
- Lien release, if any
- TD-420-062 (Vehicle Report of Sale) or online; $18 fee by mail; RCW 46.12.650(2) says 5 business days, the DOL sell page says 5 days — file within 5 calendar days to stay inside both
- A screwdriver for the plate
Buyer
- State forms (TD-420-001, 420065, TD-420-062)
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- Payment for fees and tax
- If out of state: whatever VIN verification the state requires
Three special situations
- Lost title. The seller requests a duplicate before selling. Don't accept "I'll send it later."
- Two owners on the title. If the names are joined by "and," both sign. With "or," one is usually enough.
- The seller is an heir or holds a power of attorney. Extra documentation is needed (estate papers or POA). Confirm at the office before paying.
Keep the records; check the official process
Sources
- WA DOL — Buy and register a vehicle
- WA DOL — Calculate vehicle tab fees
- WA DOL — Electronic titles
- WA DOL — Vehicle licensing offices
- RCW 46.12.650 — Reports of sale, transfer of ownership, late penalty
- RCW 46.12.560 — Inspection by state patrol
- RCW 46.29.090 — Minimum liability limits
- RCW 48.22.085 — Personal injury protection, optional coverage
- WA DOL — Form TD-420-001 Vehicle Title Application
- RCW 46.17.100 — Title application fee ($15, or $40 on a dealer sale or lease, effective October 1, 2026)
- RCW 46.17.140 — Late transfer of title penalty
- RCW 46.17.005 — Filing fees
- RCW 46.17.400 — Permit fees (vehicle trip permit $25)
- RCW 46.12.650 — TD-420-062 (Vehicle Report of Sale) or online; $18 fee by mail; RCW 46.12.650(2) says 5 business days, the DOL sell page says 5 days — file within 5 calendar days to stay inside both
- 49 CFR Part 580 — Federal odometer disclosure requirements
This guide informs; it is not legal or financial advice, nor an offer, quote or appraisal. Every figure carries its source and date; check it is still current before you decide.