title: RCW 46.04.320

text:
(1) "Motor vehicle" means a vehicle that is self-propelled or a vehicle that is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires but not operated upon rails.
(2) "Motor vehicle" includes:
(a) A neighborhood electric vehicle as defined in RCW 46.04.357;
(b) A medium-speed electric vehicle as defined in RCW 46.04.295; and
(c) A golf cart for the purposes of chapter 46.61 RCW.
(3) "Motor vehicle" excludes:
(a) An electric personal assistive mobility device;
(b) A power wheelchair;
(c) A golf cart, except as provided in subsection (2) of this section;
(d) A moped, for the purposes of chapter 46.70 RCW; and
(e) A personal delivery device as defined in RCW 46.75.010.
[ 2019 c 214 s 6; 2010 c 217 s 1; 2007 c 510 s 1. Prior: 2003 c 353 s 1; 2003 c 141 s 2; 2002 c 247 s 2; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.320; prior: 1959 c 49 s 33; 1955 c 384 s 10; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 214: See note following RCW 46.75.010.
Effective date—2007 c 510: "This act takes effect August 1, 2007." [ 2007 c 510 s 6.]
Effective date—2003 c 353: "This act takes effect August 1, 2003." [ 2003 c 353 s 12.]
Legislative review—2002 c 247: See note following RCW 46.04.1695.

catchline: Motor vehicle.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 46.04.330

text:
"Motorcycle" means a motor vehicle designed to travel on not more than three wheels, not including any stabilizing conversion kits, on which the driver:
(1) Rides on a seat or saddle and the motor vehicle is designed to be steered with a handlebar; or
(2) Rides on a seat in a partially or completely enclosed seating area that is equipped with safety belts and the motor vehicle is designed to be steered with a steering wheel.
"Motorcycle" excludes a farm tractor, a power wheelchair, an electric personal assistive mobility device, a motorized foot scooter, an electric-assisted bicycle, and a moped.
[ 2013 c 174 s 1; 2009 c 275 s 2; 2003 c 141 s 3; 2002 c 247 s 3; 1990 c 250 s 20; 1979 ex.s. c 213 s 2; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.330. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 34; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
Notes:
Legislative review—2002 c 247: See note following RCW 46.04.1695.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Motorcycle.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 46.04.332

text:
"Motor-driven cycle" means every motorcycle, including every motor scooter, with a motor that produces not to exceed five brake horsepower (developed by a prime mover, as measured by a brake applied to the driving shaft). A motor-driven cycle does not include a moped, a power wheelchair, a motorized foot scooter, or an electric personal assistive mobility device.
[ 2003 c 353 s 7; 2003 c 141 s 4; 2002 c 247 s 4; 1979 ex.s. c 213 s 3; 1963 c 154 s 28.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2003 c 141 s 4 and by 2003 c 353 s 7, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Effective date—2003 c 353: See note following RCW 46.04.320.
Legislative review—2002 c 247: See note following RCW 46.04.1695.
Effective date—1963 c 154: See note following RCW 46.37.010.

catchline: Motor-driven cycle.


title: RCW 46.04.336

text:
"Motorized foot scooter" means a device with two or three wheels that has handlebars, a floorboard that can be stood upon while riding, and is powered by an internal combustion engine or electric motor that has a maximum speed of no greater than twenty miles per hour on level ground.
For purposes of this section, a motor-driven cycle, a moped, an electric-assisted bicycle, or a motorcycle is not a motorized foot scooter.
[ 2019 c 170 s 1; 2009 c 275 s 3; 2003 c 353 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—2003 c 353: See note following RCW 46.04.320.

catchline: Motorized foot scooter.


title: RCW 46.04.338

text:
"Mount St. Helens license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display an image of Mount St. Helens.
[ 2025 c 385 s 12.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: Mount St. Helens license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.340

text:
"Muffler" means a device consisting of a series of chambers, or other mechanical designs for the purpose of receiving exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine and effective in reducing noise resulting therefrom.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.340. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 35; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Muffler.


title: RCW 46.04.350

text:
"Multiple lane highway" means any highway the roadway of which is of sufficient width to reasonably accommodate two or more separate lanes of vehicular traffic in the same direction, each lane of which shall be not less than the maximum legal vehicle width and whether or not such lanes are marked.
[ 1975 c 62 s 5; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.350. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 36; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Multiple lane highway.


title: RCW 46.04.355

text:
Municipal transit vehicle includes every motor vehicle, streetcar, train, trolley vehicle, and any other device, which (1) is capable of being moved within, upon, above, or below a public highway, (2) is owned or operated by a city, county, county transportation authority, public transportation benefit area, regional transit authority, or metropolitan municipal corporation within the state, and (3) is used for the purpose of carrying passengers together with incidental baggage and freight on a regular schedule.
[ 2004 c 118 s 2; 1984 c 167 s 2; 1974 ex.s. c 76 s 4.]
Notes:
Unlawful conduct in a transit vehicle: RCW 9.91.025.

catchline: Municipal transit vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.3551

text:
"Music Matters license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the "Music Matters" logo.
[ 2011 c 229 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 229: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Music Matters license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.356

text:
"Natural person" means a human being.
[ 2010 c 161 s 125.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Natural person.


title: RCW 46.04.3561

text:
"Nautical Northwest license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a Northwest maritime scene.
[ 2025 c 385 s 13.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: Nautical Northwest license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.357

text:
"Neighborhood electric vehicle" means a self-propelled, electrically powered four-wheeled motor vehicle whose speed attainable in one mile is more than twenty miles per hour and not more than twenty-five miles per hour and conforms to federal regulations under Title 49 C.F.R. Part 571.500.
[ 2003 c 353 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2003 c 353: See note following RCW 46.04.320.

catchline: Neighborhood electric vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.358

text:
"New motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle that (1) is self-propelled and is required to be registered and titled under this title, (2) has not been previously titled to a retail purchaser or lessee, and (3) is not a used vehicle as defined under RCW 46.04.660.
[ 2010 c 161 s 126.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: New motor vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.360

text:
"Nonresident" means any person whose residence is outside this state and who is temporarily sojourning within this state.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.360. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 37; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Nonresident.


title: RCW 46.04.363

text:
"Off-road motorcycle" means a motorcycle as defined in RCW 46.04.330 that is labeled by the manufacturer's statement or certificate of origin as intended for "off-road use only" or a similar message stamped into the frame of the motorcycle, contained in the owner's manual, or affixed to any part of the motorcycle.
[ 2011 c 121 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 121: "This act takes effect January 1, 2012." [ 2011 c 121 s 5.]

catchline: Off-road motorcycle.


title: RCW 46.04.365

text:
"Off-road vehicle" or "ORV" means a nonstreet registered vehicle when used for recreational purposes on nonhighway roads, trails, or a variety of other natural terrain. "Off-road vehicle" or "ORV" includes, but is not limited to, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, four-wheel drive vehicles, and dune buggies.
[ 2010 c 161 s 127.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Off-road vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.367

text:
"Off-street facility" means a location typically held open for use by the public for parking vehicles, ingress and egress, or used for commercial purposes. Use of such locations falls under chapter 283, Laws of 2023 when used for illegal racing when such use is without the express permission of the owner of the facility.
[ 2023 c 283 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 283: "This act takes effect January 1, 2024." [ 2023 c 283 s 9.]

catchline: Off-street facility.


title: RCW 46.04.370

text:
"Operator or driver" means every person who drives or is in actual physical control of a vehicle.
[ 1975 c 62 s 6; 1967 c 32 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.370. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 38; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Operator or driver.


title: RCW 46.04.371

text:
"Organ transport vehicle" means any vehicle operated or contracted by an organ procurement organization as defined in RCW 68.64.010, and clearly and identifiably marked as such on all sides of the vehicle.
[ 2023 c 290 s 1.]

catchline: Organ transport vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.372

text:
"ORV registration" means a registration certificate or decal issued under the laws of this state pertaining to the registration of off-road vehicles under chapter 46.09 RCW.
[ 2010 c 161 s 128.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: ORV registration.


title: RCW 46.04.380

text:
"Owner" means a person who has a lawful right of possession of a vehicle by reason of obtaining it by purchase, exchange, gift, lease, inheritance or legal action whether or not the vehicle is subject to a security interest and means registered owner where the reference to owner may be construed as either to registered or legal owner.
[ 1975 c 25 s 2; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.380. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 39; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]

catchline: Owner.


title: RCW 46.04.3802

text:
"Ownership in doubt" means that a vehicle or vessel owner is unable to obtain satisfactory evidence of ownership or releases of interest and is permitted to apply for a three-year registration period without a certificate of title or a three-year period with a bond covering the certificate of title.
[ 2010 c 161 s 129.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Ownership in doubt.


title: RCW 46.04.381

text:
"Park or parking" means the standing of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, otherwise than temporarily for the purpose of and while actually engaged in loading or unloading property or passengers.
[ 1975 c 62 s 9.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Park or parking.


title: RCW 46.04.3815

text:
Notes:
Reviser's note: RCW 46.01.3815 was amended by 2011 c 171 s 16 without reference to its repeal by 2011 c 114 s 10. It has been decodified for publication purposes under RCW 1.12.025.

catchline: Parts car.


title: RCW 46.04.382

text:
"Passenger car" means every motor vehicle except motorcycles and motor-driven cycles, designed for carrying ten passengers or less and used for the transportation of persons.
[ 1963 c 154 s 29.]
Notes:
Effective date—1963 c 154: See note following RCW 46.37.010.

catchline: Passenger car.


title: RCW 46.04.383

text:
(1) "Patches pal license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the likenesses of the J.P. Patches and Gertrude characters from the J.P. Patches show, or children's characters that are changed in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.
(2) Beginning October 1, 2031, and each decade thereafter, the Seattle children's hospital may consult with the department regarding the design of the Patches pal license plate to determine whether the current design is the best design to support the Seattle children's hospital strong against cancer program in the following 10-year time period. Following this consultation, if Seattle children's hospital determines that another group of appropriate children's characters would better support the program due to public interest at the time, Seattle children's hospital may request a redesign of the Patches pal license plate with these new characters and a new corresponding plate name. The costs associated with this consultation and redesign may be paid from the proceeds from the special license plate sales or else shall be covered by Seattle children's hospital as the sponsoring organization.
[ 2022 c 239 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2022 c 239: See note following RCW 46.17.220.

catchline: Patches pal license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.385

text:
"Personalized license plates" means license plates that display the license plate number assigned to the vehicle or camper for which the license plate number was issued in a combination of letters or numbers, or both, requested by the owner of the vehicle or camper in accordance with chapter 46.18 RCW.
[ 2010 c 161 s 131.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Personalized license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.400

text:
"Pedestrian" means any person who is afoot or who is using a wheelchair, a power wheelchair, or a means of conveyance propelled by human power other than a bicycle.
[ 2003 c 141 s 5; 1990 c 241 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.400. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 41; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Pedestrian.


title: RCW 46.04.405

text:
"Person" includes every natural person, firm, copartnership, corporation, association, or organization.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.405. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 42; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]

catchline: Person.


title: RCW 46.04.408

text:
"Photograph," along with the terms "picture" and "negative," means a pictorial representation, whether produced through photographic or other means, including, but not limited to, digital data imaging.
[ 1990 c 250 s 21.]

catchline: Photograph, picture, negative.


title: RCW 46.04.410

text:
"Pneumatic tires" includes every tire of rubber or other resilient material designed to be inflated with compressed air to support the load thereon.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.410. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 43; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]

catchline: Pneumatic tires.


title: RCW 46.04.414

text:
"Pole trailer" means every vehicle without motive power designed to be drawn by another vehicle and attached to the towing vehicle by means of a reach, or pole, or by being boomed or otherwise secured to the towing vehicle, and ordinarily used for transporting long or irregular shaped loads such as poles, pipes, logs or structural members capable, generally, of sustaining themselves as beams between the supporting connections.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.414. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 44; prior: 1951 c 56 s 1.]

catchline: Pole trailer.


title: RCW 46.04.4141

text:
Police officer means every officer authorized to direct or regulate traffic or to make arrests for violations of traffic regulations.
[ 1965 ex.s. c 155 s 89. Formerly RCW 46.04.391.]

catchline: Police officer.


title: RCW 46.04.415

text:
"Power wheelchair" means any self-propelled vehicle capable of traveling no more than fifteen miles per hour, usable indoors, designed as a mobility aid for individuals with mobility impairments, and operated by such an individual.
[ 2003 c 141 s 1.]
Notes:
Wheelchair conveyance: RCW 46.04.710.

catchline: Power wheelchair.


title: RCW 46.04.416

text:
"Private carrier bus" means every motor vehicle designed for the purpose of carrying passengers (having a seating capacity for eleven or more persons) used regularly to transport persons in furtherance of any organized agricultural, religious or charitable purpose. Such term does not include buses operated by common carriers under a franchise granted by any city or town or the Washington public utilities commission.
[ 1970 ex.s. c 100 s 3.]

catchline: Private carrier bus.


title: RCW 46.04.420

text:
"Private road or driveway" includes every way or place in private ownership and used for travel of vehicles by the owner or those having express or implied permission from the owner, but not by other persons.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.420. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 45; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]

catchline: Private road or driveway.


title: RCW 46.04.422

text:
"Private use single-axle trailer" means a trailer owned by a natural person and used for the private noncommercial use of the owner.
[ 2010 c 161 s 132.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Private use single-axle trailer.


title: RCW 46.04.429

text:
"Professional firefighters and paramedics license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol denoting professional firefighters and paramedics.
[ 2011 c 171 s 17; 2004 c 35 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Professional firefighters and paramedics license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.435

text:
"Public scale" means every scale under public or private ownership which is certified as to its accuracy and which is available for public weighing.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.435. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 47.]

catchline: Public scale.


title: RCW 46.04.437

text:
"Purple heart license plates" means special license plates that may be assigned to a motor vehicle required to display one or two license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department, to recipients of the Purple Heart medal or to another qualified person.
[ 2011 c 332 s 2; 2010 c 161 s 133.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Purple heart license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.440

text:
"Railroad" means a carrier of persons or property upon vehicles, other than streetcars, operated upon stationary rails, the route of which is principally outside cities and towns.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.440. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 48; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Railroad.


title: RCW 46.04.450

text:
"Railroad sign or signal" means any sign, signal, or device erected by authority of a public body or official or by a railroad and intended to give notice of the presence of railroad tracks or the approach of a railroad train.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.450. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 49; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Railroad sign or signal.


title: RCW 46.04.455

text:
"Reasonable grounds," when used in the context of a law enforcement officer's decision to make an arrest, means probable cause.
[ 1995 c 332 s 19.]
Notes:
Severability—Effective dates—1995 c 332: See notes following RCW 46.20.308.

catchline: Reasonable grounds.


title: RCW 46.04.460

text:
"Registered owner" means the person whose lawful right of possession of a vehicle has most recently been recorded with the department.
[ 1975 c 25 s 3; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.460. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 50; prior: 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part.]

catchline: Registered owner.


title: RCW 46.04.462

text:
"Registration" means the registration certificate or license plates issued under the laws of this state pertaining to the registration of vehicles.
[ 2010 c 161 s 134.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Registration.


title: RCW 46.04.464

text:
"Renewal notice" means the notice to renew a vehicle registration sent to the registered owner by the department.
[ 2010 c 161 s 135.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Renewal notice.


title: RCW 46.04.465

text:
(1) "Rental car" means a passenger car, as defined in RCW 46.04.382, that is used solely by a rental car business for rental to others, without a driver provided by the rental car business, for periods of not more than thirty consecutive days.
(2) "Rental car" does not include:
(a) Vehicles rented or loaned to customers by automotive repair businesses while the customer's vehicle is under repair;
(b) Vehicles licensed and operated as taxicabs.
[ 1992 c 194 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective dates—1992 c 194: See note following RCW 46.04.466.

catchline: Rental car.


title: RCW 46.04.466

text:
"Rental car business" means a person engaging within this state in the business of renting rental cars, as determined under rules of the department of licensing.
[ 1992 c 194 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective dates—1992 c 194: "(1) Sections 1 through 3 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect June 1, 1992.
(2) Sections 4 through 13 of this act shall take effect January 1, 1993." [ 1992 c 194 s 14.]

catchline: Rental car business.


title: RCW 46.04.467

text:
"Rental trailer" means a trailer, as defined in RCW 46.04.620, that is used solely by a rental car business for rental to others for periods of not more than thirty consecutive days.
[ 2020 c 11 s 2.]

catchline: Rental trailer.


title: RCW 46.04.468

text:
"Report of sale" means a document or electronic record transaction that when properly completed and filed protects the seller of a vehicle from certain criminal and civil liabilities arising from use of the vehicle by another person after the vehicle has been sold or a change in ownership has occurred.
[ 2010 c 161 s 136.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Report of sale.


title: RCW 46.04.470

text:
"Residence district" means the territory contiguous to and including a public highway not comprising a business district, when the property on such public highway for a continuous distance of three hundred feet or more on either side thereof is in the main improved with residences or residences and buildings in use for business.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.470. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 51; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]

catchline: Residence district.


title: RCW 46.04.480

text:
"Revoke," in all its forms, means the invalidation for a period of one year and thereafter until reissue. However, under the provisions of RCW 46.20.285, 46.20.311, 46.20.265, or 46.61.5055, and chapters 46.32 and 46.65 RCW, the invalidation may last for a period other than one year.
[ 2025 c 23 s 1; 2007 c 419 s 4; 1995 c 332 s 10; 1994 c 275 s 38; 1988 c 148 s 8; 1985 c 407 s 1; 1983 c 165 s 14; 1983 c 165 s 13; 1979 c 62 s 7; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.480. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 52; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 23 ss 1-4 and 6-14: "Sections 1 through 4 and 6 through 14 of this act take effect October 1, 2025." [ 2025 c 23 s 17.]
Findings—Short title—2007 c 419: See notes following RCW 46.16A.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1995 c 332: See notes following RCW 46.20.308.
Short title—Effective date—1994 c 275: See notes following RCW 46.04.015.
Legislative finding—Severability—1988 c 148: See notes following RCW 13.40.265.
Effective dates—1985 c 407: "Sections 2 and 4 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1985. The remainder of the act shall take effect January 1, 1986." [ 1985 c 407 s 8.]
Legislative finding, intent—Effective dates—Severability—1983 c 165: See notes following RCW 46.20.308.
Severability—1979 c 62: See note following RCW 46.65.020.

catchline: Revoke.


title: RCW 46.04.485

text:
"Ride share license plates" means special license plates issued for motor vehicles that are used primarily for commuter ride sharing as defined in *RCW 46.74.010.
[ 2010 c 161 s 137.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 46.74.010 was amended by 2021 c 135 s 2, deleting the definition of "commuter ride sharing."
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Ride share license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.490

text:
"Road tractor" includes every motor vehicle designed and used primarily as a road building vehicle in drawing road building machinery and devices.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.490. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 53; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Road tractor.


title: RCW 46.04.500

text:
"Roadway" means that portion of a highway improved, designed, or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the sidewalk or shoulder even though such sidewalk or shoulder is used by persons riding bicycles. In the event a highway includes two or more separated roadways, the term "roadway" shall refer to any such roadway separately but shall not refer to all such roadways collectively.
[ 1977 c 24 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.500. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 54; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Roadway.


title: RCW 46.04.510

text:
"Safety zone" means the area or space officially set apart within a roadway for the exclusive use of pedestrians and which is protected or is marked or indicated by painted marks, signs, buttons, standards, or otherwise, so as to be plainly discernible.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.510. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 55; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Safety zone.


title: RCW 46.04.514

text:
"Salvage vehicle" means a vehicle whose certificate of title has been surrendered to the department under RCW 46.12.600 due to the vehicle's destruction or declaration as a total loss or for which there is documentation indicating that the vehicle has been declared salvage or has been damaged to the extent that the owner, an insurer, or other person acting on behalf of the owner, has determined that the cost of parts and labor plus the salvage value has made it uneconomical to repair the vehicle. "Salvage vehicle" does not include a motor vehicle having a model year designation of a calendar year that is at least six years before the calendar year in which the vehicle was wrecked, destroyed, or damaged, unless, after June 13, 2002, and immediately before the vehicle was wrecked, destroyed, or damaged, the vehicle had a retail fair market value of at least the then market value threshold amount and has a model year designation of a calendar year not more than twenty years before the calendar year in which the vehicle was wrecked, destroyed, or damaged.
[ 2010 c 161 s 138.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Salvage vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.516

text:
"San Juan Islands license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the San Juan Islands in Washington state.
[ 2019 c 177 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 177: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: San Juan Islands license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.518

text:
"Scale weight" means the weight of a vehicle without a load.
[ 2010 c 161 s 139.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Scale weight.


title: RCW 46.04.521

text:
School bus means every motor vehicle used regularly to transport children to and from school or in connection with school activities, which is subject to the requirements set forth in the most recent edition of "Specifications for School Buses" published by the state superintendent of public instruction, but does not include buses operated by common carriers in urban transportation of school children or private carrier buses operated as school buses in the transportation of children to and from private schools or school activities.
[ 1995 c 141 s 1; 1965 ex.s. c 155 s 90.]

catchline: School bus.


title: RCW 46.04.522

text:
"Seattle Mariners license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the Seattle Mariners.
[ 2018 c 67 s 7.]
Notes:
Effective date—2018 c 67 ss 3-8: See note following RCW 46.17.220.

catchline: Seattle Mariners license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.5221

text:
"Seattle NHL hockey special license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the logo of the national hockey league team based in Seattle.
[ 2020 c 129 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2020 c 129: See note following RCW 46.17.220.

catchline: Seattle NHL hockey special license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.5222

text:
"Seattle Reign FC license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the logo of the Seattle Reign FC.
[ 2025 c 385 s 17.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: Seattle Reign FC license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.523

text:
"Seattle Seahawks license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the Seattle Seahawks.
[ 2013 c 286 s 7.]
Notes:
Effective date—2013 c 286: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Seattle Seahawks license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.524

text:
"Seattle Sounders FC license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Seattle Sounders FC.
[ 2013 c 286 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—2013 c 286: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Seattle Sounders FC license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.525

text:
"Seattle University license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Seattle University.
[ 2014 c 6 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2014 c 6: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Seattle University license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.526

text:
"Secured party" has the same meaning as in *RCW 62A.1-201.
[ 2010 c 161 s 140.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The reference to RCW 62A.1-201 appears to be erroneous. Reference to RCW 62A.9A-102 was apparently intended.
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Secured party.


title: RCW 46.04.527

text:
"Security interest" has the same meaning as in RCW 62A.1-201.
[ 2010 c 161 s 141.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Security interest.


title: RCW 46.04.530

text:
"Semitrailer" includes every vehicle without motive power designed to be drawn by a vehicle, motor vehicle, or truck tractor and so constructed that an appreciable part of its weight and that of its load rests upon and is carried by such other vehicle, motor vehicle, or truck tractor.
[ 1979 ex.s. c 149 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.530. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 57; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]

catchline: Semitrailer.


title: RCW 46.04.535

text:
"Share the road license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing an organization that promotes bicycle safety and awareness education. Share the road license plates commemorate the life of Cooper Jones.
[ 2010 c 161 s 142.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Share the road license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.540

text:
"Sidewalk" means that property between the curb lines or the lateral lines of a roadway and the adjacent property, set aside and intended for the use of pedestrians or such portion of private property parallel and in proximity to a public highway and dedicated to use by pedestrians.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.540. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 58; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Sidewalk.


title: RCW 46.04.542

text:
"Ski & ride Washington license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing the Washington snowsports industry.
[ 2010 c 161 s 143.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Ski & ride Washington license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.544

text:
"Smokey Bear license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the name, image, and likeness of Smokey Bear promoting wildfire prevention and the state department of natural resources' wildland wildfire program.
[ 2025 c 385 s 14.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: Smokey Bear license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.545

text:
"Snow bike" means a motorcycle or off-road motorcycle that has been modified with a conversion kit to include (1) an endless belt tread or cleats or similar means for the purposes of propulsion on snow and (2) a ski or sled type runner for the purposes of steering.
[ 2019 c 262 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 262: See note following RCW 46.16A.460.

catchline: Snow bike.


title: RCW 46.04.546

text:
"Snowmobile" means a self-propelled vehicle that is capable of traveling over snow or ice that (1) utilizes as its means of propulsion an endless belt tread or cleats, or any combination of these or other similar means of contact with the surface upon which it is operated, (2) is steered wholly or in part by skis or sled type runners, and (3) is not otherwise registered as, or subject to, the motor vehicle excise tax in the state of Washington.
[ 2010 c 161 s 145.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Snowmobile.


title: RCW 46.04.550

text:
"Solid tire" includes every tire of rubber or other resilient material which does not depend upon inflation with compressed air for the support of the load thereon.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.550. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 59; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]

catchline: Solid tire.


title: RCW 46.04.551

text:
(1) "Special highway construction equipment" means any vehicle that is (a) designed and used primarily for the grading of highways, the paving of highways, earthmoving, and other construction work on highways, (b) not designed or used primarily to transport persons or property on a public highway, and (c) only incidentally operated or moved over the highway.
(2) "Special highway construction equipment" includes, but is not limited to, road construction and maintenance machinery that is designed and used for the purposes described under subsection (1) of this section, such as portable air compressors, air drills, asphalt spreaders, bituminous mixers, bucket loaders, track laying tractors, ditchers, leveling graders, finishing machines, motor graders, paving mixers, road rollers, scarifiers, earthmoving scrapers and carryalls, lighting plants, welders, pumps, power shovels and draglines, and self-propelled and tractor-drawn earthmoving equipment and machinery, including dump trucks and tractor-dump trailer combinations that (a) are in excess of the legal width, (b) because of their length, height, or unladen weight, may not be moved on a public highway without the permit specified in RCW 46.44.090 and are not operated laden except within the boundaries of the project limits as defined by the contract, and other similar types of construction equipment, or (c) are driven or moved upon a public highway only for the purpose of crossing the highway from one property to another, provided that the movement does not exceed five hundred feet and the vehicle is equipped with wheels or pads that will not damage the roadway surface.
[ 2010 c 161 s 144.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Special highway construction equipment.


title: RCW 46.04.552

text:
"Special mobile equipment" means every vehicle not designed or used primarily for the transportation of persons or property and only incidentally operated or moved over a highway, including but not limited to: Ditch digging apparatus, well boring apparatus and road construction and maintenance machinery such as asphalt spreaders, bituminous mixers, bucket loaders, tractors other than truck tractors, ditchers, leveling graders, finishing machines, motor graders, road rollers, scarifiers, earthmoving carryalls and scrapers, power shovels and draglines, and self-propelled cranes and earthmoving equipment. The term does not include house trailers, dump trucks, truck mounted transit mixers, cranes or shovels or other vehicles designed for the transportation of persons or property to which machinery has been attached.
[ 1973 1st ex.s. c 17 s 1; 1972 ex.s. c 5 s 1; 1963 c 154 s 30.]
Notes:
Effective date—1963 c 154: See note following RCW 46.37.010.

catchline: Special mobile equipment.


title: RCW 46.04.553

text:
"Sport utility vehicle" means a high performance motor vehicle weighing six thousand pounds or less, designed to carry ten passengers or less or designated as a sport utility vehicle by the manufacturer.
[ 2010 c 161 s 146.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Sport utility vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.554

text:
"Square dancer license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol of square dancers.
[ 2010 c 161 s 147.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Square dancer license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.555

text:
"Stand or standing" means the halting of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, otherwise than temporarily for the purpose of and while actually engaged in receiving or discharging passengers.
[ 1975 c 62 s 10.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Stand or standing.


title: RCW 46.04.556

text:
"Standard issue license plates" means license plates that are held for general issue, and does not mean personalized license plates or any other special license plate.
[ 2010 c 161 s 148.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Standard issue license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.559

text:
"State flower license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the Washington state flower.
[ 2012 c 65 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 65: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: State flower license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.560

text:
"State highway" includes every highway or part thereof, which has been designated as a state highway or branch thereof, by legislative enactment.
[ 1975 c 62 s 7; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.560. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 60; prior: 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: State highway.


title: RCW 46.04.563

text:
"State sport license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that recognize the state sport of pickleball.
[ 2025 c 385 s 16.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: State sport license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.565

text:
"Stop" when required means complete cessation from movement.
[ 1975 c 62 s 11.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Stop.


title: RCW 46.04.566

text:
"Stop or stopping" when prohibited means any halting even momentarily of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the directions of a police officer or traffic control sign or signal.
[ 1975 c 62 s 12.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Stop or stopping.


title: RCW 46.04.570

text:
"Streetcar" means a vehicle other than a train for transporting persons or property and operated upon stationary rails principally within cities and towns.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.570. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 61; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Streetcar.


title: RCW 46.04.572

text:
"Street rod vehicle" means a motor vehicle that:
(1) Is a 1948 or older vehicle or the vehicle was manufactured after 1948 to resemble a vehicle manufactured before 1949; and
(2) Has alterations to one or more of the major component parts listed in RCW 46.80.010 that change the appearance or performance of the vehicle from the original manufacturer's design or has a body constructed from nonoriginal materials.
[ 2011 c 114 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 114: "This act takes effect October 1, 2011." [ 2011 c 114 s 11.]

catchline: Street rod vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.574

text:
"Subagency" means the licensing office in which vehicle title and registration functions are carried out by a subagent.
[ 2010 c 161 s 149.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Subagency.


title: RCW 46.04.575

text:
"Subagent" means a person or governmental entity recommended by a county auditor or other agent and who is appointed by the director to provide vehicle registration and certificate of title services under contract with the county auditor or other agent.
[ 2010 c 161 s 150.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Subagent.


title: RCW 46.04.580

text:
"Suspend," in all its forms and unless a different period is specified, means invalidation for any period less than one year and thereafter until reinstatement.
[ 2025 c 23 s 2; 1994 c 275 s 28; 1990 c 250 s 22; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.580. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 62; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 23 ss 1-4 and 6-14: See note following RCW 46.04.480.
Short title—Effective date—1994 c 275: See notes following RCW 46.04.015.

catchline: Suspend.


title: RCW 46.04.581

text:
"Tab" or "license tab" means a sticker issued by the department and affixed to the rear license plate to identify the vehicle license expiration month and year for a specific vehicle.
[ 2010 c 161 s 151.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Tab.


title: RCW 46.04.582

text:
"Tandem axle" means any two or more consecutive axles whose centers are less than seven feet apart.
[ 1988 c 6 s 1; 1979 ex.s. c 149 s 2.]

catchline: Tandem axle.


title: RCW 46.04.585

text:
"Temporarily sojourning," as the term is used in chapter 46.04 RCW, shall be construed to include any nonresident who is within this state for a period of not to exceed six months in any one year.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.585. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 63; prior: 1955 c 89 s 6.]

catchline: Temporarily sojourning.


title: RCW 46.04.5851

text:
"Temporary license plate" means a plate or placard that may be issued to a vehicle owner by the department or by an authorized entity for the purposes of temporary vehicle licensing.
[ 2022 c 132 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2022 c 132: See note following RCW 46.04.2701.

catchline: Temporary license plate.


title: RCW 46.04.5852

text:
"Temporary operating authority" means a paper or electronic credential issued under chapter 46.87 RCW that conforms with the international registration plan requirements for temporary evidence of apportioned registration.
[ 2022 c 132 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2022 c 132: See note following RCW 46.04.2701.

catchline: Temporary operating authority.


title: RCW 46.04.586

text:
"THC concentration" means nanograms of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol per milliliter of a person's whole blood. THC concentration does not include measurement of the metabolite THC-COOH, also known as carboxy-THC.
[ 2013 c 3 s 3 (Initiative Measure No. 502, approved November 6, 2012).]
Notes:
Intent—2013 c 3 (Initiative Measure No. 502): See note following RCW 69.50.101.

catchline: THC concentration.


title: RCW 46.04.587

text:
"Total loss vehicle" means a vehicle that has been reported to the department as destroyed by an insurance company, self-insurer, or the vehicle owner or the owner's authorized representative.
[ 2010 c 161 s 152.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Total loss vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.588

text:
"Tow dolly" means a trailer equipped with between one and three axles designed to connect to a tow bar on the rear of a motor vehicle that is used to tow another vehicle. The front or rear wheels of the towed vehicle are secured to and rest on the tow dolly.
[ 2010 c 161 s 153.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Tow dolly.


title: RCW 46.04.589

text:
"Tracked all-terrain vehicle" means any "wheeled all-terrain vehicle" as defined in RCW 46.09.310 and weighing less than two thousand pounds in stock configuration, with tracks or a combination of tracks and skis installed in place of the standard low-pressure tires.
[ 2021 c 86 s 2.]

catchline: Tracked all-terrain vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.590

text:
"Traffic" includes pedestrians, ridden or herded animals, vehicles, streetcars, and other conveyances either singly or together, while using any public highways for purposes of travel.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.590. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 64; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Traffic.


title: RCW 46.04.600

text:
"Traffic control signal" means any traffic device, whether manually, electrically, or mechanically operated, by which traffic alternately is directed to stop or proceed or otherwise controlled.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.600. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 65; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Traffic control signal.


title: RCW 46.04.611

text:
Official traffic-control devices means all signs, signals, markings and devices not inconsistent with Title 46 RCW placed or erected by authority of a public body or official having jurisdiction, for the purpose of regulating, warning or guiding traffic.
[ 1965 ex.s. c 155 s 88.]

catchline: Traffic-control devices.


title: RCW 46.04.620

text:
"Trailer" includes every vehicle without motive power designed for being drawn by or used in conjunction with a motor vehicle constructed so that no appreciable part of its weight rests upon or is carried by such motor vehicle, but does not include a municipal transit vehicle, or any portion thereof. "Trailer" does not include a cargo extension.
[ 2016 c 22 s 2; 1974 ex.s. c 76 s 3; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.620. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 67; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2016 c 22: See notes following RCW 46.04.094.

catchline: Trailer.


title: RCW 46.04.621

text:
"Transit permit" means a document that authorizes a person to operate a vehicle on a public highway of this state solely for the purpose of obtaining the necessary documentation to complete and apply for a Washington certificate of title or vehicle registration. Unlimited use of the vehicle is prohibited when operated under a transit permit.
[ 2010 c 161 s 154.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Transit permit.


title: RCW 46.04.622

text:
"Park trailer" or "park model trailer" means a travel trailer designed to be used with temporary connections to utilities necessary for operation of installed fixtures and appliances. The trailer's gross area shall not exceed four hundred square feet when in the setup mode. "Park trailer" excludes a mobile home.
[ 1989 c 337 s 2.]

catchline: Park trailer.


title: RCW 46.04.62240

text:
"Share the Road license plates" means license plates that commemorate the life of Cooper Jones and display a symbol of an organization that promote[s] bicycle safety and awareness education in communities throughout Washington.
[ 2005 c 426 s 2.]

catchline: Share the Road license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.62250

text:
"Signal preemption device" means a device that is capable of altering the normal operation of a traffic control signal. Any such device manufactured by a vehicle manufacturer is not a signal preemption device for purposes of this section if the primary purpose of the device is any purpose other than the preemption of traffic signals and the device's ability to alter traffic signals is unintended and incidental to the device's primary purpose.
[ 2005 c 183 s 1.]

catchline: Signal preemption device.


title: RCW 46.04.62260

text:
"Ski & Ride Washington license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of the Washington snowsports industry in this state.
[ 2011 c 171 s 18; 2005 c 220 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Ski & Ride Washington license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.623

text:
"Travel trailer" means a trailer built on a single chassis transportable upon the public streets and highways that is designed to be used as a temporary dwelling without a permanent foundation and may be used without being connected to utilities.
[ 1989 c 337 s 3.]

catchline: Travel trailer.


title: RCW 46.04.630

text:
"Train" means a vehicle propelled by steam, electricity, or other motive power with or without cars coupled thereto, operated upon stationary rails, except streetcars.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.630. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 68; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Train.


title: RCW 46.04.640

text:
"Trolley vehicle" means a vehicle the motive power for which is supplied by means of a trolley line and which may or may not be confined in its operation to a certain portion of the roadway in order to maintain trolley line contact.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.640. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 69; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Trolley vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.650

text:
"Tractor" means every motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles and not so constructed as to carry a load other than a part of the weight of the vehicle and load so drawn.
[ 1986 c 18 s 1; 1975 c 62 s 8; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.650. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 70; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Tractor.


title: RCW 46.04.652

text:
"Transportation network company" means a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, or other entity that operates in this state, and uses a digital network to connect passengers with transportation network company drivers to provide prearranged rides.
[ 2021 c 93 s 3.]

catchline: Transportation network company.


title: RCW 46.04.653

text:
"Truck" means every motor vehicle designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of property.
[ 1986 c 18 s 2.]

catchline: Truck.


title: RCW 46.04.655

text:
"Truck tractor" means every motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles but so constructed as to permit carrying a load in addition to part of the weight of the vehicle and load so drawn.
[ 1986 c 18 s 3.]

catchline: Truck tractor.


title: RCW 46.04.657

text:
"United States Naval Academy license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a design related to the United States Naval Academy.
[ 2025 c 385 s 21.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: United States Naval Academy license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.660

text:
"Used vehicle" means a vehicle which has been sold, bargained, exchanged, given away, or title transferred from the person who first took title to it from the manufacturer or first importer, dealer, or agent of the manufacturer or importer, and so used as to have become what is commonly known as "secondhand" within the ordinary meaning thereof.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.660. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 71; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Used vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.670

text:
(1) "Vehicle" means a device capable of being moved upon a public highway and in, upon, or by which any persons or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway.
(2) "Vehicle" excludes:
(a) A power wheelchair or device other than a bicycle moved by human or animal power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks;
(b) A moped, for the purposes of chapter 46.70 RCW;
(c) A bicycle or a motorized foot scooter, for the purposes of chapter 46.12, 46.16A, or 46.70 RCW, or for RCW 82.12.045;
(d) An electric personal assistive mobility device or a motorized foot scooter, for the purposes of chapter 46.12, 46.16A, 46.29, 46.37, or 46.70 RCW;
(e) A golf cart, except for the purposes of chapter 46.61 RCW; and
(f) A personal delivery device as defined in RCW 46.75.010, except for the purposes of chapter 46.61 RCW.
[ 2023 c 470 s 1007. Prior: 2019 c 214 s 7; 2019 c 170 s 2; 2011 c 171 s 19; prior: 2010 c 217 s 2; 2010 c 161 s 155; 2003 c 141 s 6; 2002 c 247 s 5; 1994 c 262 s 2; 1991 c 214 s 2; 1979 ex.s. c 213 s 4; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.670; prior: 1959 c 49 s 72; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.
Effective date—2019 c 214: See note following RCW 46.75.010.
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.
Legislative review—2002 c 247: See note following RCW 46.04.1695.
Mopeds
helmet required: RCW 46.37.530, 46.37.535.
motorcycle endorsement, exemption: RCW 46.20.500.
operation and safety standards: RCW 46.61.710, 46.61.720.
registration: RCW 46.16A.405(2), 46.17.350(1)(f).

catchline: Vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.671

text:
"Vehicle license fee" means a fee collected by the state of Washington as a license fee, as that term is construed in Article II, section 40 of the state Constitution, for the act of registering a vehicle under chapter 46.16A RCW. "Vehicle license fee" does not include license plate fees, or taxes and fees collected by the department for other jurisdictions.
[ 2011 c 171 s 20; 2010 c 161 s 156.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Vehicle license fee.


title: RCW 46.04.672

text:
"Vehicle or pedestrian right-of-way" means the right of one vehicle or pedestrian to proceed in a lawful manner in preference to another vehicle or pedestrian approaching under such circumstances of direction, speed, and proximity as to give rise to danger of collision unless one grants precedence to the other.
[ 1975 c 62 s 13.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Vehicle or pedestrian right-of-way.


title: RCW 46.04.681

text:
"Vintage snowmobile" means a snowmobile manufactured at least thirty years ago.
[ 2010 c 161 s 157.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Vintage snowmobile.


title: RCW 46.04.683

text:
"Washington apples license plate" means a special license plate under RCW 46.18.200 that displays the Washington apple logo.
[ 2020 c 93 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2020 c 93: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Washington apples license plate.


title: RCW 46.04.685

text:
"Washington farmers and ranchers license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Washington farmers and ranchers.
[ 2016 c 36 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2016 c 36: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Washington farmers and ranchers license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.686

text:
"Washington honey bees and pollinators license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display images of honey bees and pollinators.
[ 2025 c 385 s 18.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: Washington honey bees and pollinators license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.691

text:
"Washington Lighthouses license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of lighthouse environmental programs in Washington state.
[ 2011 c 171 s 21; 2005 c 48 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Washington Lighthouses license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.6910

text:
"Washington state aviation license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display images of a Stearman biplane and Mount Rainier.
[ 2017 c 11 s 5.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2017 c 11: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Washington state aviation license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.6911

text:
"Washington state parks license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing Washington state parks as premier destinations of uncommon quality that preserve significant natural, cultural, historical, and recreational resources.
[ 2010 c 161 s 158.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Washington state parks license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.6912

text:
"Washington state wrestling license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Washington state wrestling.
[ 2016 c 15 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2016 c 15: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Washington state wrestling license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.6913

text:
"Washington tennis license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing tennis in Washington state.
[ 2016 c 16 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2016 c 16: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Washington tennis license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.6914

text:
"Washington wine license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a landscape of Washington's wine regions.
[ 2022 c 117 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2022 c 117: See note following RCW 46.17.220.

catchline: Washington wine license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.6915

text:
"Washington's fish license plate collection" means the collection of fish license plate designs. Each license plate design displays a distinct symbol or artwork, to include steelhead, recognizing the fish of Washington.
[ 2016 c 30 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2016 c 30: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Washington's fish license plate collection.


title: RCW 46.04.692

text:
"Washington's National Park Fund license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of Washington's National Park Fund in preserving Washington's national parks for future generations in Washington state.
[ 2011 c 171 s 22; 2005 c 177 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Washington's National Park Fund license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.693

text:
"Washington's wildlife license plate collection" means the collection of three separate license plate designs. Each license plate design displays a distinct symbol or artwork, to include bear, deer, and elk, recognizing the wildlife of Washington.
[ 2010 c 161 s 159.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Washington's wildlife license plate collection.


title: RCW 46.04.705

text:
"We love our pets license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of the Washington state federation of animal care and control agencies in Washington state that assists local member agencies of the federation to promote and perform spay/neuter surgery of Washington state pets, in order to reduce pet overpopulation.
[ 2011 c 171 s 23; 2005 c 71 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: We love our pets license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.710

text:
"Wheelchair conveyance" means any vehicle specially manufactured or designed for the transportation of a physically or medically impaired wheelchair-bound person. The vehicle may be a separate vehicle used in lieu of a wheelchair or a separate vehicle used for transporting the impaired person while occupying a wheelchair. The vehicle shall be equipped with a propulsion device capable of propelling the vehicle within a speed range established by the state patrol. The state patrol may approve and define as a wheelchair conveyance, a vehicle that fails to meet these specific criteria but is essentially similar in performance and application to vehicles that do meet these specific criteria.
[ 1987 c 330 s 703; 1983 c 200 s 1.]
Notes:
Construction—Application of rules—Severability—1987 c 330: See notes following RCW 28B.12.050.
Severability—1983 c 200: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1983 c 200 s 7.]
Power wheelchairs: RCW 46.04.415.
Wheelchair conveyances
operator's license: RCW 46.20.109.
public roadways, operating on: RCW 46.61.730.
registration: RCW 46.16A.405(3).
safety standards: RCW 46.37.610.

catchline: Wheelchair conveyance.


title: RCW 46.04.714

text:
"Wild on Washington license plates" means special license plates that display a symbol or artwork symbolizing wildlife viewing in Washington state.
[ 2010 c 161 s 161.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Wild on Washington license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.725

text:
"Working forests license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display images embodying working forests.
[ 2025 c 385 s 15.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 385 ss 3-24: See note following RCW 44.04.300.
Short title—2025 c 385: See note following RCW 46.18.060.

catchline: Working forests license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.900

text:
For the purposes of this title, the terms spouse, marriage, marital, husband, wife, widow, widower, next of kin, and family shall be interpreted as applying equally to state registered domestic partnerships or individuals in state registered domestic partnerships as well as to marital relationships and married persons, and references to dissolution of marriage shall apply equally to state registered domestic partnerships that have been terminated, dissolved, or invalidated, to the extent that such interpretation does not conflict with federal law. Where necessary to implement chapter 521, Laws of 2009, gender-specific terms such as husband and wife used in any statute, rule, or other law shall be construed to be gender neutral, and applicable to individuals in state registered domestic partnerships.
[ 2009 c 521 s 112.]

catchline: Construction—Title applicable to state registered domestic partnerships—2009 c 521.


title: RCW 46.08.010

text:
The provisions of this title relating to certificates of title, registration certificates, vehicle licenses, vehicle license plates, and drivers' licenses shall be exclusive and no political subdivision of the state of Washington shall require or issue any licenses or certificates for the same or a similar purpose, nor shall any city or town in this state impose a tax, license, or other fee upon vehicles operating exclusively between points outside of such city or town limits, and to points therein.
[ 2010 c 161 s 1111; 1990 c 42 s 207; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.010. Prior: 1937 c 188 s 75; RRS s 6312-75.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.
Purpose—Effective dates—Application—Implementation—1990 c 42: See notes following RCW 46.68.090.

catchline: State preempts registration and licensing fields.


title: RCW 46.08.020

text:
The provisions of this title relating to vehicles shall be applicable and uniform throughout this state and in all incorporated cities and towns and all political subdivisions therein and no local authority shall enact or enforce any law, ordinance, rule or regulation in conflict with the provisions of this title except and unless expressly authorized by law to do so and any laws, ordinances, rules or regulations in conflict with the provisions of this title are hereby declared to be invalid and of no effect. Local authorities may, however, adopt additional vehicle and traffic regulations which are not in conflict with the provisions of this title.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.08.020. Prior: 1937 c 189 s 2; RRS s 6360-2.]

catchline: Precedence over local vehicle and traffic regulations.


title: RCW 46.08.030

text:
The provisions of this title relating to the operation of vehicles shall be applicable and uniform upon all persons operating vehicles upon the public highways of this state, except as otherwise specifically provided.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.08.030. Prior: 1937 c 189 s 3; RRS s 6360-3.]

catchline: Uniformity of application.


title: RCW 46.08.065

text:
(1) It is unlawful for any public officer having charge of any vehicle owned or controlled by any county, city, town, or public body in this state other than the state of Washington and used in public business to operate the same upon the public highways of this state unless and until there shall be displayed upon such automobile or other motor vehicle in letters of contrasting color not less than one and one-quarter inches in height in a conspicuous place on the right and left sides thereof, the name of such county, city, town, or other public body, together with the name of the department or office upon the business of which the said vehicle is used. This section shall not apply to vehicles of a sheriff's office, local police department, or any vehicles used by local peace officers under public authority for special undercover or confidential investigative purposes. This subsection shall not apply to: (a) Any municipal transit vehicle operated for purposes of providing public mass transportation; (b) any vehicle governed by the requirements of subsection (4) of this section; nor to (c) any motor vehicle on loan to a school district for driver training purposes. It shall be lawful and constitute compliance with the provisions of this section, however, for the governing body of the appropriate county, city, town, or public body other than the state of Washington or its agencies to adopt and use a distinctive insignia which shall be not less than six inches in diameter across its smallest dimension and which shall be displayed conspicuously on the right and left sides of the vehicle. Such insignia shall be in a color or colors contrasting with the vehicle to which applied for maximum visibility. The name of the public body owning or operating the vehicle shall also be included as part of or displayed above such approved insignia in colors contrasting with the vehicle in letters not less than one and one-quarter inches in height. Immediately below the lettering identifying the public entity and agency operating the vehicle or below an approved insignia shall appear the words "for official use only" in letters at least one inch high in a color contrasting with the color of the vehicle. The appropriate governing body may provide by rule or ordinance for marking of passenger motor vehicles as prescribed in subsection (2) of this section or for exceptions to the marking requirements for local governmental agencies for the same purposes and under the same circumstances as permitted for state agencies under subsection (3) of this section.
(2) Except as provided by subsections (3) and (4) of this section, passenger motor vehicles owned or controlled by the state of Washington, and purchased after July 1, 1989, must be plainly and conspicuously marked on the lower left-hand corner of the rear window with the name of the operating agency or institution or the words "state motor pool," as appropriate, the words "state of Washington — for official use only," and the seal of the state of Washington or the appropriate agency or institution insignia, approved by the department of enterprise services. Markings must be on a transparent adhesive material and conform to the standards established by the department of enterprise services. For the purposes of this section, "passenger motor vehicles" means sedans, station wagons, vans, light trucks, or other motor vehicles under ten thousand pounds gross vehicle weight.
(3) Subsection (2) of this section shall not apply to vehicles used by the Washington state patrol for general undercover or confidential investigative purposes. Traffic control vehicles of the Washington state patrol may be exempted from the requirements of subsection (2) of this section at the discretion of the chief of the Washington state patrol. The department of enterprise services shall adopt general rules permitting other exceptions to the requirements of subsection (2) of this section for other vehicles used for law enforcement, confidential public health work, and public assistance fraud or support investigative purposes, for vehicles leased or rented by the state on a casual basis for a period of less than ninety days, and those provided for in RCW 46.08.066. The exceptions in this subsection, subsection (4) of this section, and those provided for in RCW 46.08.066 shall be the only exceptions permitted to the requirements of subsection (2) of this section.
(4) Any motorcycle, vehicle over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, or other vehicle that for structural reasons cannot be marked as required by subsection (1) or (2) of this section that is owned or controlled by the state of Washington or by any county, city, town, or other public body in this state and used for public purposes on the public highways of this state shall be conspicuously marked in letters of a contrasting color with the words "State of Washington" or the name of such county, city, town, or other public body, together with the name of the department or office that owns or controls the vehicle.
(5) All motor vehicle markings required under the terms of this chapter shall be maintained in a legible condition at all times.
[ 2015 c 225 s 98; 1998 c 111 s 4; 1989 c 57 s 9; 1975 1st ex.s. c 169 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.065. Prior: 1937 c 189 s 46; RRS s 6360-46. Formerly RCW 46.36.140.]
Notes:
Effective date—1989 c 57: See note following RCW 43.19.620.

catchline: Publicly owned vehicles to be marked—Exceptions.


title: RCW 46.08.066

text:
(1) The department may issue confidential license plates to:
(a) Units of local government and agencies of the federal government for law enforcement purposes only;
(b) Any state official elected on a statewide basis for use on official business. Only one set of confidential license plates may be issued to these elected officials;
(c) Any other public officer or public employee for the personal security of the officer or employee when recommended by the chief of the Washington state patrol. These confidential license plates may only be used on an unmarked publicly owned or controlled vehicle of the employing government agency for the conduct of official business for the period of time that the personal security of the state official, public officer, or other public employee may require; and
(d) The office of the state treasurer. These confidential license plates may only be used on an unmarked state owned or controlled vehicle when required for the safe transportation of either state funds or negotiable securities to or from the office of the state treasurer.
(2) The use of confidential license plates on other vehicles owned or operated by the state of Washington by any officer or employee of the state is limited to confidential, investigative, or undercover work of state law enforcement agencies, confidential public health work, and confidential public assistance fraud or child support investigations.
(3)(a) The department may issue confidential drivers' licenses and identicards to commissioned officers of state and local law enforcement agencies and agencies of the federal government only for undercover or covert law enforcement activities.
(b) Any driver's license or identicard issued under this subsection shall display an expiration date that complies with the department's rules, but a driver's license or identicard issued under this subsection may be used only during the duration of the officer's assignment to an undercover or covert operation.
(c) Any driver's license or identicard issued under this subsection must be returned to the department within thirty days of the end of the officer's undercover assignment. Any driver's license or identicard issued under this subsection must be returned to the department immediately upon the officer's retirement, termination, dismissal, change in job assignment, or leave from the agency.
(4) The director may adopt rules governing applications for, and the use of, confidential license plates, drivers' licenses, and identicards.
[ 2013 c 336 s 2; 2010 c 161 s 211; 1986 c 158 s 20; 1982 c 163 s 14; 1979 c 158 s 128; 1975 1st ex.s. c 169 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2013 c 336: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 21, 2013]." [ 2013 c 336 s 4.]
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.
Severability—Effective date—1982 c 163: See notes following RCW 2.10.052.

catchline: Publicly owned vehicles—Confidential license plates, drivers' licenses, identicards—Issuance, rules governing.


title: RCW 46.08.067

text:
A violation of any provision of RCW 46.08.065 as now or hereafter amended or of RCW 46.08.066 shall subject the public officer or employee committing such violation to disciplinary action by the appropriate appointing authority or employing agency. Such disciplinary action may include, but shall not be limited to, suspension without pay or termination of employment in the case of repeated or continuing noncompliance.
[ 1975 1st ex.s. c 169 s 3.]

catchline: Publicly owned vehicles—Violations concerning marking and confidential license plates.


title: RCW 46.08.068

text:
Any vehicle properly marked pursuant to statutory requirements in effect prior to September 8, 1975, need not be remarked to conform to the requirements of RCW 46.08.065 through 46.08.067 until July 1, 1977.
[ 1975 1st ex.s. c 169 s 4.]

catchline: Publicly owned vehicles—Remarking not required, when.


title: RCW 46.08.070

text:
Subject to a compliance with the motor vehicle laws of the state and acceptance of the provisions of this title, nonresident owners and operators of vehicles hereby are granted the privilege of using the public highways of this state, and use of such public highways shall be deemed and construed to be an acceptance by such nonresident owners and operators of the provisions of this title.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.08.070. Prior: 1937 c 189 s 128; RRS s 6360-128.]

catchline: Nonresidents, application to.


title: RCW 46.08.150

text:
The director of enterprise services shall have power to devise and promulgate rules and regulations for the control of vehicular and pedestrian traffic and the parking of motor vehicles on the state capitol grounds. However, the monetary penalty for parking a motor vehicle without a valid special license plate or placard in a parking place reserved for persons with physical disabilities shall be the same as provided in RCW 46.19.050. Such rules and regulations shall be promulgated by publication in one issue of a newspaper published at the state capitol and shall be given such further publicity as the director may deem proper.
[ 2015 c 225 s 99; 2010 c 161 s 1112; 2010 c 161 s 212; 1995 c 384 s 2; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.150. Prior: 1955 c 285 s 21; 1947 c 11 s 1; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 7921-20.]
Notes:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.

catchline: Control of traffic on capitol grounds.


title: RCW 46.08.160

text:
The chief of the Washington state patrol shall be the chief enforcing officer to assure the proper enforcement of such rules and regulations.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.08.160. Prior: 1947 c 11 s 2; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 7921-21.]

catchline: Control of traffic on capitol grounds—Enforcing officer.


title: RCW 46.08.170

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, any violation of a rule or regulation prescribed under RCW 46.08.150 is a traffic infraction, and the district courts of Thurston county shall have jurisdiction over such offenses: PROVIDED, That violation of a rule or regulation relating to traffic including parking, standing, stopping, and pedestrian offenses is a traffic infraction.
(2) Violation of such a rule or regulation equivalent to those provisions of Title 46 RCW set forth in RCW 46.63.020 remains a misdemeanor.
[ 2003 c 53 s 232; 1987 c 202 s 213; 1979 ex.s. c 136 s 40; 1963 c 158 s 2; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.170. Prior: 1947 c 11 s 3; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 7921-22.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
Effective date—Severability—1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010.

catchline: Control of traffic on capitol grounds—Violations, traffic infractions, misdemeanors—Jurisdiction.


title: RCW 46.08.172

text:
The director of the department of enterprise services shall establish equitable and consistent parking rental fees for the capitol campus and may, if requested by agencies, establish equitable and consistent parking rental fees for agencies off the capitol campus, to be charged to employees, visitors, clients, service providers, and others, that reflect the legislature's intent to reduce state subsidization of parking or to meet the commute trip reduction goals established in *RCW 70.94.527. All fees shall take into account the market rate of comparable privately owned rental parking, as determined by the director. However, parking rental fees are not to exceed the local market rate of comparable privately owned rental parking.
The director may delegate the responsibility for the collection of parking fees to other agencies of state government when cost-effective.
[ 2015 c 225 s 100; 1995 c 215 s 4; 1993 c 394 s 4. Prior: 1991 sp.s. c 31 s 12; 1991 sp.s. c 13 s 41; 1988 ex.s. c 2 s 901; 1985 c 57 s 59; 1984 c 258 s 323; 1963 c 158 s 1.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 70.94.527 was recodified as RCW 70A.15.4020 pursuant to 2020 c 20 s 2010.
Finding—Purpose—1993 c 394: See note following RCW 43.01.220.
Effective dates—1991 sp.s. c 13: See note following RCW 18.04.105.
Effective date—1985 c 57: See note following RCW 18.04.105.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.
Intent—1984 c 258: See note following RCW 3.34.130.
Fee deposition: RCW 43.01.225.

catchline: Parking rental fees—Establishment.


title: RCW 46.08.175

text:
(1) The legislative authority of a city or county may by ordinance or resolution create a golf cart zone, for the purposes of permitting the incidental operation of golf carts, as defined in RCW 46.04.1945, upon a street or highway of this state having a speed limit of twenty-five miles per hour or less.
(2) Every person operating a golf cart as authorized under this section is granted all rights and is subject to all duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle under chapter 46.61 RCW.
(3) Every person operating a golf cart as authorized under this section must be at least sixteen years of age and must have completed a driver education course or have previous experience driving as a licensed driver.
(4) A person who has a revoked license under RCW 46.20.285 may not operate a golf cart as authorized under this section.
(5) The legislative authority of a city or county may prohibit any person from operating a golf cart as authorized under this section at any time from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise.
(6) The legislative authority of a city or county may require a decal or other identifying device to be displayed on golf carts authorized on the streets and highways of this state under this section. The city or county may charge a fee for the decal or other identifying device.
(7) The legislative authority of a city or county may prohibit the operation of golf carts in designated bicycle lanes that are within a golf cart zone.
(8) Golf carts must be equipped with reflectors, seat belts, and rearview mirrors when operated upon streets and highways as authorized under this section.
(9) A city or county that creates a golf cart zone under this section must clearly identify the zone by placing signage at the beginning and end of the golf cart zone on a street or road that is part of the golf cart zone. The signage must be in compliance with the department of transportation's manual on uniform traffic control devices for streets and highways.
(10) Accidents that involve golf carts operated upon streets and highways as authorized under this section must be recorded and tracked in compliance with chapter 46.52 RCW. The accident report must indicate that a golf cart operating within a golf cart zone is involved in the accident.
[ 2010 c 217 s 4.]

catchline: Golf cart zones.


title: RCW 46.08.185

text:
(1) Publicly available electric vehicle supply equipment must be indicated by vertical signage identifying the station as publicly available electric vehicle supply equipment and indicating that it is only for electric vehicle charging. The signage must be consistent with the manual on uniform traffic control devices, as adopted by the department of transportation under RCW 47.36.030, and contain the information required in RCW 19.94.560. Supplementary signage may be posted to provide additional information including, but not limited to, the amount of the monetary penalty under subsection (2) of this section for parking in the station while not connected to the charging equipment.
(2) It is a parking infraction, with a monetary penalty of one hundred twenty-four dollars, for any person to park a vehicle in a parking space served by publicly available electric vehicle supply equipment if the vehicle is not connected to the charging equipment. The parking infraction must be processed as prescribed under RCW 3.50.100, 35.20.220, 46.16A.120, and 46.20.270(2).
(3) For purposes of this section, "publicly available electric vehicle supply equipment" has the same meaning as provided in RCW 19.94.010 and described in RCW 19.94.550 and 19.94.555.
[ 2021 c 238 s 12; 2013 c 60 s 1.]

catchline: Electric vehicle charging stations—Signage—Penalty.


title: RCW 46.08.190

text:
Every district and municipal court judge shall have concurrent jurisdiction with superior court judges of the state for all violations of the provisions of this title, except the trial of felony charges on the merits, and may impose any punishment provided therefor.
[ 1995 c 136 s 1; 1984 c 258 s 136; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.190. Prior: 1955 c 393 s 4.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.
Application—1984 c 258 ss 101-139: See note following RCW 3.50.005.

catchline: Jurisdiction of judges of district, municipal, and superior court.


title: RCW 46.08.195

text:
(1) The name, residence address, and mailing address (if different) submitted by an applicant for a driver's license or other permit, identicard, certificate of title, or vehicle or vessel registration is the name and address of record for the person.
(2)(a) If an applicant for or the holder of a driver's license, permit, identicard, certificate of title, or vehicle or vessel registration changes his or her name or address, he or she must notify the department of the change in writing on a form provided by the department. The written notification, or other means as designated by rule of the department, is the exclusive means by which the name or address of record maintained by the department concerning the person may be changed.
(b) The form must contain a place for the person to indicate that an address change is not for voting purposes. The department must notify the secretary of state by the means described in RCW 29A.08.350 of all change of address information for natural persons received by means of this form except information on persons indicating that the change is not for voting purposes.
(3) Any notice regarding the refusal, cancellation, suspension, revocation, disqualification, probation, or nonrenewal of the driver's license, commercial driver's license, permit, driving privilege, identicard, certificate of title, or vehicle or vessel registration mailed to the address of record of the applicant or holder is effective notwithstanding the applicant or holder's failure to receive the notice.
(4) The department may not change the name of record of a person who is the holder of a driver's license, other driving permit, or identicard under this section unless the person has again satisfied the department regarding his or her identity in the manner provided under RCW 46.20.035.
[ 2017 c 147 s 2.]

catchline: Name and address of record for license, permit, identicard, title, and registration applicants—Notice.


title: RCW 46.09.300

text:
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all lands in this state. Nothing in this chapter, RCW 79A.35.040, 79A.35.070, 79A.35.090, 79A.35.110, and 79A.35.120 shall be deemed to grant to any person the right or authority to enter upon private property without permission of the property owner.
[ 2005 c 213 s 2; 1972 ex.s. c 153 s 2; 1971 ex.s. c 47 s 6. Formerly RCW 46.09.010.]
Notes:
Findings—Construction—2005 c 213: "The legislature finds that off-road recreational vehicles (ORVs) provide opportunities for a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities. The legislature further finds that the limited amount of ORV recreation areas presents a challenge for ORV recreational users, natural resource land managers, and private landowners. The legislature further finds that many nonhighway roads provide opportunities for ORV use and that these opportunities may reduce conflicts between users and facilitate responsible ORV recreation. However, restrictions intended for motor vehicles may prevent ORV use on certain roads, including forest service roads. Therefore, the legislature finds that local, state, and federal jurisdictions should be given the flexibility to allow ORV use on nonhighway roads they own and manage or for which they are authorized to allow public ORV use under an easement granted by the owner. Nothing in this act authorizes trespass on private property." [ 2005 c 213 s 1.]
Effective date—2005 c 213: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2005." [ 2005 c 213 s 9.]
Purpose—1972 ex.s. c 153: See RCW 67.32.080.

catchline: Application of chapter—Permission necessary to enter upon private lands.