As of April 2010, when you purchase a car in the State of Washington from a private party, you must transfer the title into your name within 15 calendar days from the date you purchased it. If you don't meet this deadline, you will be required to pay a $25.00 penalty on the 16th day, or $2.00 for each day after the 16th day is past. There is a maximum penalty of $100.00 for late title transfers.
Have the seller and any other person named on the title sign the Certificate of Ownership. This will enable you to transfer the title of the car to your name. If the seller doesn't have the title or it is lost, he will need to sign a form titled "Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest" which can be obtained at any vehicle licensing agency. This form also needs to be signed by a notary public.
Provide a signed and dated Bill of Sale from the seller to the licensing clerk. This is a requirement in the State of Washington when purchasing a vehicle from a private party as the buyer must pay a "use tax" based on the purchase price of the car.
Furnish a current Emissions Testing Report to the licensing clerk only if you live in an urban area of Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish, or Spokane county. Emission tests serve to ensure that your new car is equipped with appropriate emission control devices.
Provide an Odometer Disclosure Statement signed by you and the seller to the licensing clerk if the car you purchased is less than 10 years old. This form is only available from a vehicle licensing office; it is not available online or via email as it is tamper proof. If you are not near a vehicle licensing office, request a form by calling 360-902-3770 or email a request to titles@dol.wa.gov.
Double check all forms for accuracy. Any errors could delay the receipt of your new vehicle title transfer. If all is in order, you should receive your new title within six to eight weeks following the transfer into your name.
