What you need to do to transfer a car title in Washington
To transfer a car title in Washington State, you fill out a form called the process for Title (Form REG 130), gather documents proving ownership and identity, and submit them to your county auditor's office along with a fee. The auditor's office handles title transfers, not the Department of Licensing. Most transfers take one to two weeks once the auditor receives your paperwork, though the timeline depends on how busy your county office is and whether your documents are complete on the first try.
The process differs slightly depending on whether you're buying a car from a private seller, trading one in at a dealership, inheriting a vehicle, or receiving one as a gift. A dealership will often handle the paperwork for you as part of the sale, but if you're buying privately or the title is changing hands for another reason, you'll need to do it yourself.
Key Takeaways
- You must submit the process for Title (Form REG 130) to your county auditor's office, not the Department of Licensing.
- You need the current title, proof of ownership, a bill of sale or purchase agreement, and a government-issued ID to complete the transfer.
- The fee varies by county but typically ranges from $15 to $30, and you may owe sales tax on the purchase price if you bought the car.
- If you're buying from a private seller, both you and the seller must sign the title in the correct sections before you submit it.
- Transfers usually take one to two weeks, but you can check your county auditor's website to see current processing times.
Documents you need to bring or submit
Start by gathering the current title — the document that proves who owns the car right now. If you're buying the car, the seller must have this. If the title is lost or damaged, the current owner can request a duplicate from their county auditor before the sale.
You'll also need a bill of sale or purchase agreement that shows the sale price, the date of the sale, and the names and signatures of both the buyer and seller. This document protects both parties and gives the auditor proof that money changed hands. You can use a straightforward written agreement or a form — Washington does not require a specific format, but the auditor's office website usually has a template you can read.
Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) to prove your identity. If you're mailing in the paperwork, a photocopy is acceptable. You'll also need proof of your Washington address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you just moved to Washington, bring your out-of-state driver's license or ID plus the address proof.
If the car has a lien (meaning a bank or lender owns it until you pay off a loan), you need written permission from the lien holder to transfer the title. This usually comes as a letter or a form the lender provides.
How to fill out the process for Title
The process for Title (Form REG 130) is a one-page form available on your county auditor's website or at their office. Fill in your name, address, and driver's license number in the buyer section. Enter the vehicle information: year, make, model, vehicle identification number (VIN), and current odometer reading.
In the seller section, enter the current owner's name and address. Then describe the transaction type — for example, "private sale" or "purchase from individual." This tells the auditor why the title is changing hands.
Sign and date the form. The seller must also sign the form in the designated area, or they can sign the back of the title itself. Some sellers prefer to sign only the title to keep their personal information off the process form — both methods are acceptable in Washington.
Where to submit your paperwork
Submit your completed form, the current title, the bill of sale, and your ID to your county auditor's office. Each Washington county has its own auditor's office, and they handle all title transfers for vehicles registered in that county. You can find your county auditor's contact information and office hours on the Washington State Association of County Auditors website or by searching "[your county] auditor."
You can submit paperwork in person during office hours, by mail, or sometimes by email or drop box — check your specific county's website for which methods they accept. If you mail it, include a check or money order for the transfer fee and keep a copy of everything you send for your records.
Some counties offer online title transfer for certain transactions, particularly if you're buying from a dealership. Ask your auditor's office whether your situation qualifies.
Fees and sales tax
The title transfer fee varies by county. Most counties charge between $15 and $30, but you should confirm the exact amount with your county auditor before you submit. This fee is separate from any sales tax you may owe.
If you purchased the car, you may owe Washington sales tax on the purchase price. The tax rate depends on your county and can range from 6.5% to over 10%. The auditor's office will calculate this when you submit your paperwork and tell you what you owe. If you're transferring a title for a gift or inheritance, you typically do not owe sales tax, but bring documentation of the reason for the transfer.
Some counties accept payment by check, money order, or credit card. Call ahead to confirm what payment methods your auditor's office takes.
What happens after you submit
Once the auditor's office receives your complete paperwork, they process the transfer and mail you a new title in your name. This usually takes one to two weeks, though some counties are faster or slower depending on their workload. You can call your county auditor's office to ask about current processing times, or check their website — many post estimated wait times online.
While you're waiting, you can drive the car if you have proof of the sale (the bill of sale or a receipt). You do not need to wait for the new title to arrive before using the vehicle, but keep the bill of sale with you in case you're stopped by police.
Once the new title arrives, it will show your name as the owner. If there is a lien on the car, the lender's name will appear on the title as well. Keep the title in a safe place — you'll need it if you ever sell the car or transfer it again.
Special situations: gifts, inheritance, and trade-ins
If someone is giving you a car as a gift, you still need to transfer the title, but you may not owe sales tax. Bring a signed statement from the giver explaining that the car is a gift, or use a gift affidavit form available from your county auditor. The process is the same as a private sale, except the bill of sale shows $0 as the purchase price.
If you inherit a car, the process depends on whether the estate has gone through probate. If it has, bring a copy of the probate order or a letter from the executor. If the estate is small and does not require probate, ask your county auditor what documents they need — requirements vary. You typically do not owe sales tax on an inherited vehicle.
If you're trading in a car at a dealership, the dealership usually handles the title transfer for you as part of the sale. Confirm this before you leave the lot, and ask for a receipt showing that they have received your old title. If you're buying from a dealership but trading in a car from a private party, the dealership may ask you to transfer the trade-in title yourself first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive the car before the new title arrives?
Yes. Once you have a signed bill of sale or receipt showing the date of purchase, you can drive the car. Keep this document with you in case you're pulled over. You do not need to wait for the new title to arrive, but do not delay submitting your paperwork to the auditor.
What if the seller's name on the title does not match their ID?
The name on the title must match the seller's government-issued ID. If there is a mismatch, the seller needs to get a corrected title from their county auditor before you can transfer it. This can add several weeks to the process, so address it early.
Do I need to get the car inspected before transferring the title?
Washington does not require a pre-purchase inspection for title transfer. However, it is a good idea to have a mechanic inspect any used car before you buy it, so you know what you are getting. This is separate from the title transfer process.
What if I bought the car out of state and am moving to Washington?
You have 30 days after establishing residency in Washington to transfer your out-of-state title to a Washington title. Bring your out-of-state title, proof of your new Washington address, and the same documents you would need for any title transfer. You will owe Washington sales tax on the purchase price if you have not already paid it to another state.
Can I transfer a title if the car has a lien on it?
Yes, but you need written permission from the lien holder. Contact the bank or lender and ask them to provide a letter or form authorizing the title transfer. Some lenders require that the loan be paid off before the title transfers; others allow the transfer while the loan is active. The lien holder's name will appear on your new Washington title until the loan is paid off.