To get a car title in Washington, submit a completed Vehicle Title Application, the properly signed current title, and payment to the Department of Licensing (DOL) within 15 days of purchase. The standard fee is $39.50, plus a $12 service fee, with processing taking 6-8 weeks by mail. For immediate needs, a $50 expedited fee at a Quick Title office grants same-day issuance.
Standard Ownership Transfer Process
When buying a vehicle, the seller must accurately sign the back of the current title, including the sale price, date, and odometer reading (mandatory for 2011 and newer models). The buyer completes a Vehicle Title Application (Form TD-420-001). Both parties should complete a Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale (Form TD-420-065) for records. These documents, along with payment, are submitted to any vehicle licensing office or by mail to the DOL. Submitting within 15 days of sale avoids potential penalties.
Replacing a Lost or Damaged Title
If your title is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must complete an Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest (Form TD-420-040P). If there are multiple owners listed, all must sign the form. This signature typically must be witnessed by a DOL agent or notary public. Submit this form with the $39.50 replacement title fee and the $12 service fee ($51.50 total) to a licensing office. The replacement will be mailed to the address on record.
Expedited and Special Scenario Procedures
For urgent needs, visit a designated Quick Title office. Paying an additional $50 expedite fee on top of the standard fees ($89.50 total for most vehicles) results in same-day title printing. For vehicles from another state, you must provide the out-of-state title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, along with proof that Washington sales/use tax has been paid. If a lienholder (lender) holds the title, they must release their interest electronically or by mail before a clean title can be issued to you.
The table below summarizes the key fees and timelines for common title transactions in Washington state:
| Transaction Type | Base Title Fee | Service Fee | Expedited Fee (Quick Title) | Estimated Processing Time |
|---|
| Standard Transfer/New Title | $39.50 | +$12.00 | Not Applicable | 6-8 weeks by mail |
| Title Replacement | $39.50 | +$12.00 | Not Applicable | 6-8 weeks by mail |
| Expedited (Quick Title) Service | $39.50 | +$12.00 | +$50.00 | Same day at office |
Washington DOL data indicates that incomplete forms or incorrect signatures are the most common reasons for title application rejection. Double-check all fields, especially the odometer disclosure and seller signatures, to avoid delays. All fees are set by state regulation and are subject to change.
