Washington Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in Washington?

Dealer Temporary License Plate in Washington is a short-term plate that allows highway travel until permanent plates are obtained. The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) manages two plate-based systems: dealer-issued temporary plates printed through the e-permit program and department-issued temporary plates issued at vehicle licensing offices.

Licensed dealers print plates on durable synthetic paper at the point of sale. DOL offices, county auditors, and subagents issue department temporary plates when a registration application is pending. A separate vehicle trip permit covers unlicensed vehicles needing short moves on public highways.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Washington?

A dealer may issue a second temporary license plate if the first expires before the permanent plates arrive. DOL adopts rules for extending department temporary plates in case of plate shortages, according to RCW 46.16A.305.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Washington?

• A dealer sale requires the dealer to attach two temporary license plates before the buyer leaves the lot, according to RCW 46.16A.300.
• A buyer from a private party who has applied for registration receives a department temporary plate from the vehicle licensing office.
• An owner moving an unlicensed or expired registration vehicle on public highways must have a vehicle trip permit according to RCW 46.16A.320.
• Military nonresident personnel purchasing a vehicle in Washington apply for a temporary permit for military nonresidents when registering out of state.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate in Washington?

1. Gather the bill of sale or purchase order, proof of insurance, and valid photo ID; dealers also need their e-permit system credentials.
2. Choose a path: the dealer processes plates during the sale via the e-permit system; private buyers visit a vehicle licensing office or county auditor.
3. Submit the application at the counter or through the dealer’s e-permit portal.
4. Pay the fee described in the next section.
5. Receive the plate: dealers print two plates immediately; licensing offices issue department plates at the counter; trip permits are paper documents issued on-site.

Trip permits require cash or check at the licensing office and cannot be purchased online.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Washington?

Dealers may charge a contractual administrative fee up to $200 per transaction, as currently published on the DOL dealer services page. The $40 plate fee is separate from this fee.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Washington?

No. Washington does not offer any option for consumers to purchase temporary plates or trip permits online.

The e-permit system is limited to licensed dealers for issuing dealer temporary license plates. Consumers cannot access it.

All other classes require an in-person visit to a vehicle licensing office, county auditor, or DOL-appointed subagent. Bring cash or check payment for trip permits.

For dealer purchases, the dealership processes everything at the point of sale; for all other situations, visit the nearest vehicle licensing office.

How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Washington?

Operating without valid registration is a traffic infraction carrying a $529 fine according to RCW 46.16A.030. Vehicles with expired registration over 45 days may be impounded.