title: RCW 44.90.110

text:
(1) The following activities conducted by or on behalf of legislative employees related to collective bargaining under this chapter are exempt from the restrictions contained in RCW 42.52.020 and 42.52.160:
(a) Using paid time and public resources by an employee to negotiate or administer a collective bargaining agreement under this chapter when the employee is assigned to negotiate or administer the collective bargaining agreement and the use of paid time and public resources does not include state purchased supplies or equipment, does not interfere with or distract from the conduct of state business, and is consistent with the employer's policy on the use of paid time;
(b) Lobbying conducted by an employee organization, lobbyist, association, or third party on behalf of legislative employees concerning legislation that directly impacts legislative workplace conditions;
(c) Communication with a prospective employee organization during nonwork hours and without the use of public resources; or
(d) Conducting the day-to-day work of organizing and representing legislative employees in the workplace while serving in a legislative employee organization leadership position.
(2)(a) Nothing in this section affects the application of the prohibition against the use of special privileges under RCW 42.52.070, confidentiality requirements under RCW 42.52.050, or other applicable provisions of chapter 42.52 RCW to legislative employees.
(b) Nothing in this section permits any direct lobbying by a legislative employee.
(3) As used in this section, "lobby" and "lobbyist" have the meanings provided in *RCW 42.17A.005.
[ 2024 c 333 s 19.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 42.17A.005 was repealed by 2024 c 164 s 257, effective January 1, 2026. For later enactment, see RCW 29B.10.350 and 29B.10.360.
Effective date—2024 c 333: See note following RCW 44.90.025.

catchline: Activities exempt from certain ethics in public service provisions.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 44.90.900

text:
Sections 3 through 9 of this act take effect May 1, 2024.
[ 2022 c 283 s 11.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Effective date—2022 c 283 ss 3-9.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 46.01.011

text:
The legislature finds that the department of licensing administers laws relating to the licensing and regulation of professions, businesses, and other activities in addition to administering laws relating to the licensing and regulation of vehicles and vehicle operators, dealers, and manufacturers. The laws administered by the department have the common denominator of licensing and regulation and are directed toward protecting and enhancing the well-being of the residents of the state.
[ 2010 c 161 s 201; 1994 c 92 s 500; 1979 c 158 s 113; 1977 ex.s. c 334 s 1.]
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.
Effective date—1977 ex.s. c 334: "This 1977 amendatory act shall take effect on July 1, 1977." [ 1977 ex.s. c 334 s 8.]

catchline: Purpose.


title: RCW 46.01.020

text:
A department of the government of this state to be known as the "department of licensing" is hereby created.
[ 1979 c 158 s 114; 1977 ex.s. c 334 s 2; 1965 c 156 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—1977 ex.s. c 334: See note following RCW 46.01.011.

catchline: Department created.


title: RCW 46.01.030

text:
The department is responsible for administering and recommending the improvement of the motor vehicle laws of this state relating to:
(1) Driver examining and licensing;
(2) Driver improvement;
(3) Driver records;
(4) Financial responsibility;
(5) Certificates of title;
(6) Vehicle registration certificates and license plates;
(7) Proration and reciprocity;
(8) Liquid fuel tax collections;
(9) Licensing of dealers, motor vehicle transporters, motor vehicle wreckers, for hire vehicles, and drivers' schools;
(10) General highway safety promotion in cooperation with the Washington state patrol and traffic safety commission; and
(11) Such other activities as the legislature may provide.
[ 2010 c 161 s 1107; 1990 c 250 s 14; 1965 c 156 s 3.]
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: Administration and improvement of certain motor vehicle laws.


title: RCW 46.01.040

text:
The department is vested with all powers, functions, and duties with respect to and including the following:
(1) The fuel tax and aircraft fuel tax as provided in chapters 82.38 and 82.42 RCW;
(2) The motor vehicle excise tax as provided in chapter 82.44 RCW;
(3) The travel trailers and campers excise tax as provided in chapter 82.50 RCW;
(4) All general powers and duties relating to motor vehicles as provided in chapter 46.08 RCW;
(5) Certificates of title and registration certificates as provided in chapters 46.12 and 46.16A RCW;
(6) The registration of motor vehicles as provided in chapter 46.16A RCW;
(7) Dealers' licenses as provided in chapter 46.70 RCW;
(8) The licensing of motor vehicle transporters as provided in chapter 46.76 RCW;
(9) The licensing of vehicle wreckers as provided in chapter 46.80 RCW;
(10) The administration of the laws relating to reciprocal or proportional registration of motor vehicles as provided in chapter 46.85 RCW;
(11) The licensing of passenger vehicles for hire as provided in chapter 46.72 RCW;
(12) Drivers' licenses as provided in chapter 46.20 RCW;
(13) Commercial driver training schools as provided in chapter 46.82 RCW;
(14) Financial responsibility as provided in chapter 46.29 RCW;
(15) Accident reporting as provided in chapter 46.52 RCW;
(16) Disposition of revenues as provided in chapter 46.68 RCW; and
(17) The administration of all other laws relating to motor vehicles vested in the director of licenses on June 30, 1965.
[ 2013 c 225 s 606; 2011 c 171 s 10; 2010 c 161 s 1108; 1983 c 3 s 117; 1979 c 158 s 115; 1965 c 156 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2013 c 225: See note following RCW 82.38.010.
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.

catchline: Powers, duties, and functions relating to motor vehicle laws vested in department.


title: RCW 46.01.070

text:
Functions named in RCW 46.01.030 which have been performed by the state patrol as agent of the director of licenses before June 30, 1965 shall be performed by the department of licensing after June 30, 1965.
[ 1979 c 158 s 118; 1965 c 156 s 7.]

catchline: Functions performed by state patrol as agent for director of licenses transferred to department.


title: RCW 46.01.100

text:
Directors shall organize the department in such manner as they may deem necessary to segregate and conduct the work of the department.
[ 1990 c 250 s 16; 1965 c 156 s 10.]

catchline: Organization of department.


title: RCW 46.01.110

text:
The director may adopt and enforce rules to carry out provisions related to vehicle registrations, certificates of title, and drivers' licenses. These rules must not be based:
(1) Solely on a section of law stating a statute's intent or purpose;
(2) On the enabling provisions of the statute establishing the agency; or
(3) On any combination of subsections (1) and (2) of this section.
[ 2010 c 161 s 202; 1995 c 403 s 108; 1979 c 158 s 120; 1965 c 156 s 11; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.140. Prior: 1937 c 188 s 79; RRS s 6312-79. Formerly RCW 46.08.140.]
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.
Findings—Short title—Intent—1995 c 403: See note following RCW 34.05.328.

catchline: Rule-making authority.


title: RCW 46.01.115

text:
The department of licensing may adopt rules as necessary to implement chapter 165, Laws of 1998.
[ 1998 c 165 s 14.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 165 ss 8-14: See note following RCW 46.52.070.
Short title—1998 c 165: See note following RCW 43.59.010.

catchline: Rules to implement 1998 c 165.


title: RCW 46.01.130

text:
The director:
(1) Shall supervise and control the issuing of vehicle certificates of title, vehicle registrations, and vehicle license plates, and has the full power to do all things necessary and proper to carry out the provisions of the law relating to the registration of vehicles;
(2) May appoint and employ deputies, assistants, representatives, and clerks;
(3) May establish branch offices in different parts of the state;
(4) May appoint county auditors in Washington state or, in the absence of a county auditor, the department or an official of county government as agents for applications for and the issuance of vehicle certificates of title and vehicle registrations; and
(5)(a) Shall investigate the conviction records and pending charges of any current employee of or prospective employee being considered for any position with the department who has or will have:
(i)(A) The ability to create or modify records of applicants for enhanced drivers' licenses and identicards issued under RCW 46.20.202; and
(B) The ability to issue enhanced drivers' licenses and identicards under RCW 46.20.202; or
(ii) The ability to conduct examinations under RCW 46.25.060; or
(iii) Access to information pertaining to vehicle license plates, drivers' licenses, or identicards under RCW 46.08.066, or vessel registrations issued under RCW 88.02.330 that, alone or in combination with any other information, may reveal the identity of an individual, or reveal that an individual is or was, performing an undercover or covert law enforcement, confidential public health work, public assistance fraud, or child support investigative activity.
(b) The investigation consists of a background check as authorized under RCW 10.97.050, 43.43.833, and 43.43.834, and the federal bureau of investigation. The background check must be conducted through the Washington state patrol criminal identification section and may include a national check from the federal bureau of investigation, which is through the submission of fingerprints. The director shall use the information solely to determine the character, suitability, and competence of current or prospective employees subject to this section.
(c) The director shall investigate the conviction records and pending charges of an employee subject to:
(i) Subsection (5)(a)(i) of this section every five years; and
(ii) Subsection (5)(a)(ii) of this section as required under 49 C.F.R. Sec. 384.228 as it existed on July 8, 2014, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the department by rule, consistent with the purposes of this section.
(d) Criminal justice agencies shall provide the director with information that they may possess and that the director may require solely to determine the employment suitability of current or prospective employees subject to this section.
[ 2013 c 336 s 1; 2013 c 224 s 1; 2010 c 161 s 203; 2009 c 169 s 1; 1979 c 158 s 121; 1973 c 103 s 2; 1971 ex.s. c 231 s 8; 1965 c 156 s 13; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.090. Prior: 1937 c 188 s 26; RRS s 6312-26; prior: 1921 c 96 s 3, part; 1917 c 155 s 2, part; 1915 c 142 s 3, part. Formerly RCW 46.08.090.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2013 c 224 s 1 and by 2013 c 336 s 1, 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—2013 c 336: See note following RCW 46.08.066.
Effective date—2013 c 224: "Sections 1 and 3 through 14 of this act take effect July 8, 2014." [ 2013 c 224 s 17.]
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—1973 c 103: "If any provision of this 1973 amendatory 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." [ 1973 c 103 s 9.]
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 231: "(1) Sections 1 through 7 of this 1971 amendatory act shall take effect on January 1, 1972.
(2) Sections 8 through 23 of this 1971 amendatory act shall take effect on January 1, 1973." [ 1971 ex.s. c 231 s 24.]

catchline: Powers and duties of director—Vehicle registration, appointments, branch offices, personnel screening.


title: RCW 46.01.135

text:
(1) There is established an investigation unit within the department for the purpose of detection, investigation, and prosecution of any act prohibited or declared to be unlawful in the programs administered by the department. The director will employ qualified supervisory, legal, and investigative personnel for the program. Program staff must be qualified by training and experience.
(2) The director and the investigation unit are authorized to receive criminal history record information that includes nonconviction data for any purpose associated with an investigation conducted by the investigation unit established under this section. Dissemination or use of nonconviction data for purposes other than that authorized in this section is prohibited.
[ 2008 c 74 s 6.]
Notes:
Finding—2008 c 74: See note following RCW 51.04.024.

catchline: Establishment of investigation unit—Use of criminal history information.


title: RCW 46.01.140

text:
(1) County auditor/agent duties. A county auditor or other agent appointed by the director must:
(a) Enter into a standard contract provided by the director;
(b) Provide all services authorized by the director for vehicle certificates of title and vehicle registration applications and issuance under the direction and supervision of the director including, but not limited to:
(i) Processing reports of sale;
(ii) Processing transitional ownership transactions;
(iii) Processing mail-in vehicle registration renewals until directed otherwise by legislative authority;
(iv) Issuing registrations and temporary ORV use permits for off-road vehicles as required under chapter 46.09 RCW;
(v) Issuing registrations for snowmobiles as required under chapter 46.10 RCW; and
(vi) Collecting fees and taxes as required;
(c) If authorized by the director, offer for sale discover passes as provided in chapter 79A.80 RCW.
(2) County auditor/agent assistants and subagents. A county auditor or other agent appointed by the director may, with approval of the director:
(a) Appoint assistants as special deputies to accept applications for vehicle certificates of title and to issue vehicle registrations; and
(b) Recommend and request that the director appoint subagencies within the county to accept applications for vehicle certificates of title and vehicle registration application issuance.
(3) Appointing subagents. A county auditor or other agent appointed by the director who requests a subagency must, with approval of the director:
(a) Use an open competitive process including, but not limited to, a written business proposal and oral interview to determine the qualifications of all interested applicants; and
(b) Submit all proposals to the director with a recommendation for appointment of one or more subagents who have applied through the open competitive process. If a qualified successor who is an existing subagent's sibling, spouse, or child, or a subagency employee has applied, the county auditor must provide the name of the qualified successor and the name of one other applicant who is qualified and was chosen through the open competitive process.
(4) Subagent duties. A subagent appointed by the director must:
(a) Enter into a standard contract with the county auditor or agent provided by the director;
(b) Provide all services authorized by the director for vehicle certificates of title and vehicle registration applications and issuance under the direction and supervision of the county auditor or agent and the director including, but not limited to:
(i) Processing reports of sale;
(ii) Processing transitional ownership transactions;
(iii) Mailing out vehicle registrations and replacement plates to internet payment option customers until directed otherwise by legislative authority;
(iv) Issuing registrations and temporary ORV use permits for off-road vehicles as required under chapter 46.09 RCW;
(v) Issuing registrations for snowmobiles as required under chapter 46.10 RCW; and
(vi) Collecting fees and taxes as required; and
(c) If authorized by the director, offer for sale discover passes as provided in chapter 79A.80 RCW.
(5) Subagent successorship. A subagent appointed by the director who no longer wants his or her appointment may recommend a successor who is the subagent's sibling, spouse, or child, or a subagency employee. The recommended successor must participate in the open competitive process used to select an applicant. In making successor recommendations and appointment determinations, the following provisions apply:
(a) If a subagency is held by a partnership or corporate entity, the nomination must be submitted on behalf of, and agreed to by, all partners or corporate officers;
(b) A subagent may not receive any direct or indirect compensation or remuneration from any party or entity in recognition of a successor nomination. A subagent may not receive any financial benefit from the transfer or termination of an appointment;
(c) The appointment of a successor is intended to assist in the efficient transfer of appointments to minimize public inconvenience. The appointment of a successor does not create a proprietary or property interest in the appointment;
(d) A subagent appointee who is planning to retire within twelve months may recommend a successor without resigning his or her appointment by submitting a letter of intent to retire with a successor recommendation to the county auditor or other agent appointed by the director. The county auditor or other agent appointed by the director shall, within sixty days, respond in writing to the subagent appointee indicating if the recommended successor would be considered in the open competitive process. If there are negative factors or deficiencies pertaining to the subagency operation or the recommended successor, the county auditor or other agent appointed by the director must state these factors in writing to the subagent appointee. The subagent appointee may withdraw the letter of intent to retire any time prior to the start of the open competitive process by writing to the county auditor or other agent appointed by the director and filing a copy with the director;
(e) A subagent appointee may name a recommended successor at any time during his or her appointment by notifying the county auditor or other agent appointed by the director in writing and filing a copy with the director. The purpose of this recommendation is for the county auditor or other agent appointed by the director to know the wishes of the subagent appointee in the event of the death or incapacitation of a sole subagent appointee or last remaining subagent appointee that could lead to the inability of the subagent to continue to fulfill the obligations of the appointment; and
(f) If the county auditor or other agent appointed by the director does not select the recommended successor for appointment as a result of the open competitive process, the county auditor or other agent appointed by the director must contact the subagent appointee by letter and explain the decision. The subagent appointee must be provided an opportunity to respond in writing. Any response by the subagent appointee must be included in the open competitive process materials submitted to the department.
(6) Standard contracts. The standard contracts provided by the director in this section may include provisions that the director deems necessary to ensure that readily accessible and acceptable service is provided to the citizens of the state, including the full collection of fees and taxes. The standard contracts must include provisions that:
(a) Describe responsibilities and liabilities of each party related to service expectations and levels;
(b) Describe the equipment to be supplied by the department and equipment maintenance;
(c) Require specific types of insurance or bonds, or both, to protect the state against any loss of collected revenue or loss of equipment;
(d) Specify the amount of training that will be provided by each of the parties;
(e) Describe allowable costs that may be charged for vehicle registration activities as described in subsection (7) of this section; and
(f) Describe causes and procedures for termination of the contract, which may include mediation and binding arbitration.
(7) County auditor/agent cost reimbursement. A county auditor or other agent appointed by the director who does not cover expenses for services provided by the standard contract may submit to the department a request for cost-coverage moneys. The request must be submitted on a form developed by the department. The department must develop procedures to standardize and identify allowable costs and to verify whether a request is reasonable. Payment must be made on those requests found to be allowable from the licensing services account.
(8) County auditor/agent revenue disbursement. County revenues that exceed the cost of providing services described in the standard contract, calculated in accordance with the procedures in subsection (7) of this section, must be expended as determined by the county legislative authority during the process established by law for adoption of county budgets.
(9) Appointment authority. The director has final appointment authority for county auditors or other agents or subagents.
(10) Rules. The director may adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2013 c 169 s 1; 2012 c 261 s 10; 2011 c 171 s 11. Prior: 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 139; 2010 c 221 s 1; 2010 c 161 s 204; 2005 c 343 s 1; 2003 c 370 s 3; 2001 c 331 s 1; 1996 c 315 s 1; 1992 c 216 s 1; 1991 c 339 s 16; 1990 c 250 s 89; 1988 c 12 s 1; 1987 c 302 s 1; 1985 c 380 s 12; prior: 1983 c 77 s 1; 1983 c 26 s 1; 1980 c 114 s 2; 1979 c 158 s 122; 1975 1st ex.s. c 146 s 1; 1973 c 103 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 231 s 9; 1971 ex.s. c 91 s 3; 1965 c 156 s 14; 1963 c 85 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.100; prior: 1955 c 89 s 3; 1937 c 188 s 27; RRS s 6312-27. Formerly RCW 46.08.100.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 261: See note following RCW 79A.80.010.
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
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.
Application—2003 c 370: "Sections 2 and 3 of this act take effect for renewals that are due or become due on or after November 1, 2003." [ 2003 c 370 s 6.] Section 2 of this act was vetoed by the governor.
Effective dates—1996 c 315 ss 1, 4, 5: "(1) Section 4 of this act and the amendments to RCW 46.01.140(4) (a) and (c) by section 1 of this act become effective on vehicle fees due or to become due on January 1, 1997, and thereafter.
(2) Section 5 of this act and the amendments to RCW 46.01.140(4) (a) and (c) by section 1 of this act become effective on vessel fees due or to become due on July 1, 1997, and thereafter.
(3) The amendments to RCW 46.01.140(5) (a) and (b) by section 1 of this act become effective on July 1, 1996." [ 1996 c 315 s 6.]
Effective date—1991 c 339 ss 16, 17: "Sections 16 and 17 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 July 1, 1991." [ 1991 c 339 s 34.]
Severability—1987 c 302: "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." [ 1987 c 302 s 5.]
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 231: See note following RCW 46.01.130.

catchline: County auditors, agents, and subagents—Powers and duties—Standard contracts—Rules.


title: RCW 46.01.150

text:
The department may maintain such branch offices within the state as the director may deem necessary properly to carry out the powers and duties vested in the department.
[ 1965 c 156 s 15.]
Notes:
Office of department, maintenance at state capital: RCW 43.17.050.

catchline: Branch offices.


title: RCW 46.01.160

text:
The director shall prescribe and provide suitable forms of applications, certificates of title and registration certificates, drivers' licenses, and all other forms and licenses requisite or deemed necessary to carry out the provisions of this title and any other laws the enforcement and administration of which are vested in the department.
[ 2010 c 161 s 1109; 1965 c 156 s 16.]
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.
Director to prescribe forms for applications, licenses, and certificates: RCW 43.24.040.

catchline: Forms for applications, certificates of title, registration certificates, etc.


title: RCW 46.01.170

text:
The department shall have an official seal with the words "Department of Licensing of Washington" engraved thereon.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 334 s 4; 1965 c 156 s 17.]
Notes:
Effective date—1977 ex.s. c 334: See note following RCW 46.01.011.

catchline: Seal.


title: RCW 46.01.180

text:
Officers and employees of the department designated by the director are, for the purpose of administering the motor vehicle laws, authorized to administer oaths and acknowledge signatures and shall do so without fee.
[ 1965 c 156 s 18.]
Notes:
Oath of director: RCW 43.17.030.

catchline: Oaths and acknowledgments.


title: RCW 46.01.190

text:
The director of licensing may designate the Washington state patrol as an agent to secure the surrender of drivers' licenses which have been suspended, revoked, or canceled pursuant to law.
[ 1979 c 158 s 123; 1965 c 156 s 19.]

catchline: Designation of state patrol as agent for surrender of drivers' licenses.


title: RCW 46.01.230

text:
(1) The department may accept checks and money orders for the payment of drivers' licenses, certificates of title and vehicle registrations, vehicle excise taxes, gross weight fees, and other fees and taxes collected by the department. Whenever registrations, licenses, or permits have been paid for by checks or money orders that have been dishonored by nonacceptance or nonpayment, the department shall:
(a) Cancel the registration, license, or permit;
(b) Send a notice of cancellation by first-class mail using the last known address in department records for the holder of the certificate, license, or permit, and complete an affidavit of first-class mail; and
(c) Assess a handling fee, set by rule.
(2) It is a traffic infraction to fail to surrender a certificate of title, registration certificate, or permit to the department or to an authorized agent within ten days of being notified that the certificate, registration, or permit has been canceled.
(3) County auditors, agents, and subagents appointed by the director may collect restitution for dishonored checks and money orders and keep the handling fee.
(4) A person who has recently acquired a vehicle by purchase, exchange, gift, lease, inheritance, or legal action is not liable or responsible for the payment of uncollected fees and taxes that were paid for by a predecessor's check or money order that was subsequently dishonored. The department may not deny an application to transfer ownership for the uncollected amount.
(5) The director may adopt rules to implement this section. The rules must provide for the public's convenience consistent with sound business practice and encourage annual renewal of vehicle registrations by mail, authorizing checks and money orders for payment.
[ 2010 c 161 s 205; 2003 c 369 s 1; 1994 c 262 s 1; 1992 c 216 s 2; 1987 c 302 s 2; 1979 ex.s. c 136 s 39; 1979 c 158 s 124; 1975 c 52 s 1; 1965 ex.s. c 170 s 44.]
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.
Effective date—2003 c 369: "This act takes effect October 1, 2003." [ 2003 c 369 s 2.]
Severability—1987 c 302: See note following RCW 46.01.140.
Effective date—Severability—1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010.

catchline: Payment by check or money order—Dishonored checks or money orders—Failure to surrender canceled certificate, registration, or permit—Immunity from payment of uncollected fees—Rules.


title: RCW 46.01.235

text:
The department may adopt necessary rules and procedures to allow use of credit and debit cards for payment of fees and excise taxes to the department and its agents or subagents related to the licensing of drivers, the issuance of identicards, and vehicle and vessel certificates of title and registration. The department may establish a convenience fee to be paid by the credit or debit card user whenever a credit or debit card is chosen as the payment method. The fee must be sufficient to offset the charges imposed on the department and its agents and subagents by credit and debit card companies. In no event may the use of credit or debit cards authorized by this section create a loss of revenue to the state.
The use of a personal credit card does not rely upon the credit of the state as prohibited by Article VIII, section 5 of the state Constitution.
[ 2010 c 161 s 207; 2004 c 249 s 9; 1999 c 271 s 1.]
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: Payment by credit or debit card.


title: RCW 46.01.240

text:
(1) The department shall provide on its internet payment option website:
(a) That a filing fee will be collected on all transactions subject to a filing fee;
(b) That a subagent service fee will be collected by a subagent office for mail or pickup licensing services; and
(c) The amount of the filing and subagent service fees.
(2) The filing and subagent service fees must be shown below each office listed.
[ 2010 c 161 s 206.]
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: Internet payment option.


title: RCW 46.01.250

text:
The director shall have the power and it shall be his or her duty upon request and payment of the fee as provided herein to furnish under seal of the director certified copies of any records of the department, except those for confidential use only. The director shall charge and collect therefor the actual cost to the department. Any funds accruing to the director of licensing under this section shall be certified and sent to the state treasurer and by him or her deposited to the credit of the highway safety fund.
[ 2010 c 8 s 9001; 1979 c 158 s 125; 1967 c 32 s 3; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.110. Prior: 1937 c 188 s 80; RRS s 6312-80. Formerly RCW 46.08.110.]

catchline: Certified copies of records—Fee.


title: RCW 46.01.260

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the director may destroy applications for vehicle registrations, copies of vehicle registrations issued, applications for drivers' licenses, copies of issued drivers' licenses, certificates of title and registration or other documents, and records or supporting papers on file in the department that have been microfilmed or photographed or are more than five years old. The director may destroy applications for vehicle registrations that are renewal applications when the computer record of the applications has been updated.
(2)(a) The director shall not destroy records of convictions or adjudications of RCW 46.61.502, 46.61.503, 46.61.504, 46.61.520, and 46.61.522, records of deferred prosecutions granted under RCW 10.05.120, or any other records of a prior offense as defined in RCW 46.61.5055 and shall maintain such records permanently on file.
(b) For purposes of RCW 46.52.101 and 46.52.130, offenses subject to this subsection shall be considered "alcohol-related" offenses.
[ 2016 c 203 s 3; 2015 2nd sp.s. c 3 s 10; 2010 c 161 s 208; 2009 c 276 s 2; 1999 c 86 s 2; 1998 c 207 s 3; 1997 c 66 s 11; 1996 c 199 s 4; 1994 c 275 s 14; 1984 c 241 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 22 s 1; 1965 ex.s. c 170 s 45; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.120. Prior: 1955 c 76 s 1; 1951 c 241 s 1; 1937 c 188 s 77; RRS s 6312-77. Formerly RCW 46.08.120.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2015 2nd sp.s. c 3: See note following RCW 10.21.055.
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.
Effective date—1998 c 207: See note following RCW 46.61.5055.
Severability—1996 c 199: See note following RCW 9.94A.505.
Short title—Effective date—1994 c 275: See notes following RCW 46.04.015.

catchline: Destruction of records by director.


title: RCW 46.01.270

text:
A county auditor or other agent appointed by the director may destroy applications for vehicle registrations and any copies of vehicle registrations or other records issued after those records have been on file in the county auditor's or other agent's office for a period of eighteen months, unless otherwise directed by the director.
[ 2010 c 161 s 209; 1991 c 339 s 18; 1967 c 32 s 4; 1961 c 12 s 46.08.130. Prior: 1937 c 188 s 78; RRS s 6312-78. Formerly RCW 46.08.130.]
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: Destruction of records by county auditor or other agent.


title: RCW 46.01.290

text:
The director shall report annually to the governor on the activities of the department.
[ 1977 c 75 s 66; 1967 c 32 s 5; 1965 c 28 s 1; 1961 ex.s. c 21 s 29. Formerly RCW 46.08.200.]

catchline: Director to make annual reports to governor.


title: RCW 46.01.310

text:
No civil suit or action may ever be commenced or prosecuted against the director, the state of Washington, any county auditor or other agents appointed by the director, any other government officer or entity, or against any other person, by reason of any act done or omitted to be done in connection with the titling or registration of vehicles or vessels while administering duties and responsibilities imposed on the director or as an agent of the director, or as a subagent of an agent of the director. This section does not bar the state of Washington or the director from bringing any action, whether civil or criminal, against any agent, nor shall it bar a county auditor or other agent of the director from bringing an action against the agent.
[ 2010 c 161 s 210; 1987 c 302 s 3.]
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.
Retroactive application—1987 c 302 s 3: "Section 3 of this act shall apply retroactively to all claims for which actions have not been filed before May 8, 1987." [ 1987 c 302 s 4.]
Severability—1987 c 302: See note following RCW 46.01.140.

catchline: Immunity of director, the state, county auditors, agents, and subagents.


title: RCW 46.01.315

text:
A civil suit or action may not be commenced or prosecuted against the director, the state of Washington, any driver training school licensed by the department, any other government officer or entity, including a school district or an employee of a school district, or against any other person, by reason of any act done or omitted to be done in connection with administering the portions of the driver licensing examination that test the applicant's knowledge of traffic laws and ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. This section does not bar the state of Washington or the director from bringing any action, whether civil or criminal, against any driver training school licensed by the department.
[ 2011 c 370 s 3.]
Notes:
Intent—2011 c 370: See note following RCW 28A.220.030.
Inclusion of stakeholder groups in communications to facilitate transition of driver licensing examination administration—2011 c 370: See note following RCW 46.82.450.

catchline: Immunity of director, the state, licensed driver training schools, and school districts in administering knowledge and driving portions of driver licensing examination.


title: RCW 46.01.320

text:
Notes:
Reviser's note: RCW 46.01.320 was amended by 2010 c 161 s 1110 without reference to its repeal by 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 137. It has been decodified for publication purposes under RCW 1.12.025.

catchline: Title and registration advisory committee.


title: RCW 46.01.330

text:
The state patrol and the department of licensing shall coordinate their activities when siting facilities. This coordination shall result in the collocation of driver and vehicle licensing and vehicle inspection service facilities whenever possible.
The department and state patrol shall explore alternative state services, such as vehicle emission testing, that would be feasible to collocate in these joint facilities. The department and state patrol shall reach agreement with the department of transportation for the purposes of offering department of transportation permits at these one-stop transportation centers. All services provided at these transportation service facilities shall be provided at cost to the participating agencies.
In those instances where the community need or the agencies' needs do not warrant collocation this section shall not apply.
[ 1993 sp.s. c 23 s 46.]
Notes:
Effective dates—1993 sp.s. c 23: See note following RCW 43.89.010.

catchline: Facilities siting coordination.


title: RCW 46.01.340

text:
By December 31, 1996, the department of licensing shall implement a PC or server-based database of fuel dealer and distributor license application information.
[ 1996 c 104 s 17.]

catchline: Database of fuel dealer and distributor license information.


title: RCW 46.01.350

text:
By July 1, 1996, the department of licensing shall establish a fuel tax advisory group comprised of state agency and petroleum industry representatives to develop or recommend audit and investigation techniques, changes to fuel tax statutes and rules, information protocols that allow sharing of information with other states, and other tools that improve fuel tax administration or combat fuel tax evasion.
[ 1996 c 104 s 18.]

catchline: Fuel tax advisory group.


title: RCW 46.01.360

text:
To ensure cost recovery for department of licensing services, the department of licensing shall submit a fee study to the transportation committees of the house of representatives and the senate by December 1, 2003, and on a biennial basis thereafter. Based on this fee study, the Washington state legislature will review and adjust fees accordingly.
[ 2002 c 352 s 27.]
Notes:
Effective dates—2002 c 352: See note following RCW 46.09.410.

catchline: Fees—Study and adjustment.


title: RCW 46.01.370

text:
The department may, in coordination with the state parks and recreation commission, offer for sale and distribute discover passes and day-use permits, as provided in chapter 79A.80 RCW, at the department's drivers' licenses offices. Any amounts collected by the department through the sales of discover passes and day-use permits must be deposited in the recreation access pass account created in RCW 79A.80.090.
[ 2012 c 261 s 11.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 261: See note following RCW 79A.80.010.

catchline: Authority to sell and distribute discover passes and day-use permits.


title: RCW 46.01.380

text:
The department must implement cost recovery mechanisms to recoup at least a portion of credit card and other financial transaction costs as part of charges imposed for driver and vehicle fee transactions. The department must develop a method of tracking the amount of credit card and other financial cost recovery revenues. The department must notify the state treasurer of these amounts and the state treasurer must deposit these revenues in the agency financial transaction account created in RCW 46.01.385 on a quarterly basis.
[ 2021 c 32 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2021 c 32: "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, 2021." [ 2021 c 32 s 3.]

catchline: Cost recovery—Portion of credit card and other financial transaction costs.


title: RCW 46.01.385

text:
The agency financial transaction account is created in the state treasury. Receipts directed by law to the account from cost recovery charges for credit card and other financial transaction fees must be deposited into the account. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation. Expenditures from the account may be used only for paying credit card and financial transaction fees, and other related costs incurred by state agencies. During the 2021-2023 fiscal biennium, expenditures from the account may also be used for additional information technology costs related to supporting the department of licensing operations and addressing its staffing shortages. During the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium, the legislature may direct the state treasurer to make transfers of moneys in the agency financial transaction account to the motor vehicle fund.
[ 2026 c 257 s 702; 2022 c 186 s 703; 2021 c 32 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 257: "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 [March 31, 2026]." [ 2026 c 257 s 802.]
Effective date—2022 c 186: See note following RCW 47.01.071.
Effective date—2021 c 32: See note following RCW 46.01.380.

catchline: Agency financial transaction account.


title: RCW 46.04.010

text:
Terms used in this title shall have the meaning given to them in this chapter except where otherwise defined, and unless where used the context thereof shall clearly indicate to the contrary.
Words and phrases used herein in the past, present or future tense shall include the past, present and future tenses; words and phrases used herein in the masculine, feminine or neuter gender shall include the masculine, feminine and neuter genders; and words and phrases used herein in the singular or plural shall include the singular and plural; unless the context thereof shall indicate to the contrary.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.010. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 2; 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.]

catchline: Scope and construction of terms.


title: RCW 46.04.011

text:
"4-H license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the "4-H" logo.
[ 2012 c 65 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 65: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: 4-H license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.013

text:
"Affidavit of loss" means a written statement confirming that the certificate of title, registration certificate, gross weight license, validation tab, or decal has been lost, stolen, destroyed, or mutilated. The statement must be in a form prescribed by the director.
[ 2010 c 161 s 101.]
Notes:
Effective date—2010 c 161: "Except for section 1020 of this act, this act takes effect July 1, 2011." [ 2010 c 161 s 1238.]
Intent—2010 c 161: "This act is intended to streamline and make technical amendments to certain codified statutes that deal with vehicle and vessel registration and title. Any statutory changes made by this act should be interpreted as technical in nature and not be interpreted to have any substantive policy or legal implications." [ 2010 c 161 s 1.]
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: "The senate and house of representatives transportation committees, in consultation with the office of the code reviser, shall prepare legislation for the 2011 regular legislative session that reconciles and conforms amendments made during the 2010 legislative session in this act." [ 2010 c 161 s 1201.]

catchline: Affidavit of loss.


title: RCW 46.04.014

text:
"Agent," for the purposes of entering into the standard contract required under RCW 46.01.140(1), means any county auditor or other individual, government, or business entity other than a subagent that is appointed to carry out vehicle registration and certificate of title functions for the department.
[ 2010 c 161 s 102.]
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: Agent.


title: RCW 46.04.015

text:
"Alcohol concentration" means (1) grams of alcohol per two hundred ten liters of a person's breath, or (2) grams of alcohol per one hundred milliliters of a person's blood.
[ 1995 c 332 s 17; 1994 c 275 s 1.]
Notes:
Severability—Effective dates—1995 c 332: See notes following RCW 46.20.308.
Short title—1994 c 275: "This act shall be known as the "1994 Omnibus Drunk Driving Act."" [ 1994 c 275 s 43.]
Effective date—1994 c 275: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1994." [ 1994 c 275 s 46.]

catchline: Alcohol concentration.


title: RCW 46.04.020

text:
"Alley" means a public highway not designed for general travel and used primarily as a means of access to the rear of residences and business establishments.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.020. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 3; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Alley.


title: RCW 46.04.022

text:
"Amateur radio operator license plates" means special license plates displaying amateur radio call letters assigned by the federal communications commission.
[ 2010 c 161 s 103.]
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: Amateur radio operator license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.028

text:
"Armed forces license plate collection" means the collection of six separate license plate designs issued under RCW 46.18.210. Each license plate design displays a symbol representing one of the five branches of the armed forces, and one representing the national guard.
[ 2010 c 161 s 104.]
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: Armed forces license plate collection.


title: RCW 46.04.030

text:
"Arterial highway" means every public highway, or portion thereof, designated as such by proper authority.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.030. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 4; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Arterial highway.


title: RCW 46.04.040

text:
"Authorized emergency vehicle" means any vehicle of any fire department, police department, sheriff's office, coroner, prosecuting attorney, Washington state patrol, ambulance service, public or private, which need not be classified, registered or authorized by the state patrol, or any other vehicle authorized in writing by the state patrol.
[ 1987 c 330 s 701; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.040. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 5; 1953 c 40 s 1; 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:
Construction—Application of rules—Severability—1987 c 330: See notes following RCW 28B.12.050.

catchline: Authorized emergency vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.050

text:
"Auto stage" means any motor vehicle used for the purpose of carrying passengers together with incidental baggage and freight or either, on a regular schedule of time and rates: PROVIDED, That no motor vehicle shall be considered to be an auto stage where substantially the entire route traveled by such vehicle is within the corporate limits of any city or town or the corporate limits of any adjoining cities or towns.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.050. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 6; 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 1, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Auto stage.


title: RCW 46.04.060

text:
"Axle" means structure or structures in the same or approximately the same transverse plane with a vehicle supported by wheels and on which or with which such wheels revolve.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.060. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 7; 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; 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.]

catchline: Axle.


title: RCW 46.04.071

text:
"Bicycle" means every device propelled solely by human power, or an electric-assisted bicycle as defined in RCW 46.04.169, upon which a person or persons may ride, having two tandem wheels either of which is sixteen inches or more in diameter, or three wheels, any one of which is twenty inches or more in diameter.
[ 2019 c 403 s 2; 2018 c 60 s 2; 1982 c 55 s 4; 1965 ex.s. c 155 s 86.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2019 c 403: "The legislature finds that a number of the collision types that have resulted in a high number of serious injuries and deaths of vulnerable roadway users can be associated with certain types of traffic infractions. To address the heightened risk to vulnerable roadway users when violations of these traffic infractions occur, the legislature intends to: (1) Introduce an additional fine as a penalty for drivers who commit these violations against a vulnerable roadway user; (2) modify when certain vulnerable roadway users may be passed by motor vehicles; and (3) clarify when and how pedestrians and bicyclists may use the roadway. To increase enforcement of all traffic infractions and offenses committed against vulnerable roadway users, the legislature intends for revenue that is collected from the new fine to be dedicated to the education of law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judges about opportunities for the enforcement of traffic violations committed against vulnerable roadway users, with any remaining funds to be used to increase awareness by the public of the risks and penalties associated with these traffic violations. The goals of this act are to achieve a reduction in the frequency with which drivers violate traffic laws that endanger vulnerable roadway users and to encourage safe sharing of the roadway by drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other vulnerable roadway users." [ 2019 c 403 s 1.]
Effective date—2019 c 403: "This act takes effect January 1, 2020." [ 2019 c 403 s 15.]

catchline: Bicycle.


title: RCW 46.04.077

text:
"Breast cancer awareness license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing breast cancer awareness.
[ 2014 c 77 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—2014 c 77: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Breast cancer awareness license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.079

text:
"Business day" means Monday through Friday and excludes Saturday, Sunday, and state and federal holidays.
[ 2010 c 161 s 106.]
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: Business day.


title: RCW 46.04.080

text:
"Business district" means the territory contiguous to and including a highway when within any six hundred feet along such highway there are buildings in use for business or industrial purposes, including but not limited to hotels, banks, or office buildings, railroad stations, and public buildings which occupy at least three hundred feet of frontage on one side or three hundred feet collectively on both sides of the highway.
[ 1975 c 62 s 2; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.080. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 9; 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.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Business district.


title: RCW 46.04.083

text:
"Cab and chassis" means an incomplete vehicle manufactured and sold with only a cab, frame, and running gear.
[ 2010 c 161 s 107.]
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: Cab and chassis.


title: RCW 46.04.085

text:
"Camper" means a structure designed to be mounted upon a motor vehicle which provides facilities for human habitation or for temporary outdoor or recreational lodging and which is five feet or more in overall length and five feet or more in height from its floor to its ceiling when fully extended, but shall not include motor homes as defined in RCW 46.04.305.
[ 1971 ex.s. c 231 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 231: See note following RCW 46.01.130.

catchline: Camper.


title: RCW 46.04.090

text:
"Cancel," in all its forms, means invalidation indefinitely.
[ 1979 c 61 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.090. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 10; 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: Cancel.


title: RCW 46.04.092

text:
"Cannabis," except as otherwise provided in this title, has the meaning provided in RCW 69.50.101.
[ 2022 c 16 s 37.]
Notes:
Intent—Finding—2022 c 16: See note following RCW 69.50.101.

catchline: Cannabis.


title: RCW 46.04.094

text:
"Cargo extension" means a device that connects to the left and right side of a motor home or travel trailer frame and (1) becomes part of the frame, (2) does not pivot on a hitch, and (3) has an axle with two wheels, acting as a tag axle, to safely carry the weight of the cargo.
[ 2016 c 22 s 3.]
Notes:
Intent—2016 c 22: "It is the intent of the legislature to ensure that a cargo-carrying extension on the rear of a motor home or travel trailer must safely carry the weight of the cargo by requiring, if necessary, that the unit have an axle and two wheels, acting as a tag axle, to accommodate the weight and size of the cargo." [ 2016 c 22 s 1.]
Effective date—2016 c 22: "This act takes effect July 1, 2016." [ 2016 c 22 s 8.]

catchline: Cargo extension.


title: RCW 46.04.100

text:
"Center line" means the line, marked or unmarked, parallel to and equidistant from the sides of a two-way traffic roadway of a highway except where otherwise indicated by painted lines or markers.
[ 1975 c 62 s 3; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.100. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 11; 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: Center line.


title: RCW 46.04.110

text:
"Center of intersection" means the point of intersection of the center lines of the roadway of intersecting public highways.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.110. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 12; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Center of intersection.


title: RCW 46.04.115

text:
"Chauffeur" means a person authorized by the department under this title to drive a limousine, and, if operating in a port district that regulates limousines under RCW 46.72A.030(2), meets the licensing requirements of that port district.
[ 1996 c 87 s 1.]

catchline: Chauffeur.


title: RCW 46.04.118

text:
(1) "Circular intersection" means an intersection characterized by a circulatory roadway, generally circular in design, located in the center of the intersection. A circular intersection encompasses the area bounded by the outermost curb line or, if there is no curb, the edge of the pavement, and includes crosswalks on any entering or exiting roadway.
(2) "Circular intersection" includes:
(a) Roundabouts;
(b) Rotaries; and
(c) Traffic circles.
[ 2020 c 199 s 1.]

catchline: Circular intersection.


title: RCW 46.04.120

text:
"City street" means every public highway, or part thereof located within the limits of cities and towns, except alleys.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.120. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 13; 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: City street.


title: RCW 46.04.123

text:
"Collectible vehicle" means a vehicle that complies with the following:
(1) Is of unique or rare design, of limited production, and an object of curiosity;
(2) Is maintained primarily for use in car club activities, exhibitions, parades, or other functions of public interest or for a private collection, and is used only infrequently for other purposes; and
(3) Has collectible vehicle or classic automobile insurance coverage that restricts the collectible vehicle mileage or use, or both, and requires the owner to have another vehicle for personal use.
[ 2014 c 72 s 2.]

catchline: Collectible vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.125

text:
"Collector" means the owner of one or more vehicles described in RCW 46.18.220(1) who collects, purchases, acquires, trades, or disposes of the vehicle or parts of it, for his or her personal use, in order to preserve, restore, and maintain the vehicle for hobby or historical purposes.
[ 2010 c 161 s 108; 1996 c 225 s 2.]
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.
Finding—1996 c 225: "The legislature finds and declares that constructive leisure pursuits by Washington citizens is most important. This act is intended to encourage responsible participation in the hobby of collecting, preserving, restoring, and maintaining motor vehicles of historic and special interest, which hobby contributes to the enjoyment of the citizens and the preservation of Washington's automotive memorabilia." [ 1996 c 225 s 1.]

catchline: Collector.


title: RCW 46.04.126

text:
"Collector vehicle" means any motor vehicle or travel trailer that is at least thirty years old.
[ 2015 c 200 s 4; 2009 c 142 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2015 c 200: See note following RCW 46.16A.428.

catchline: Collector vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.1261

text:
"Collector vehicle license plate" means a special license plate that may be assigned to a vehicle that is more than thirty years old.
[ 2010 c 161 s 109.]
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: Collector vehicle license plate.


title: RCW 46.04.127

text:
"Collegiate license plates" means license plates that display a depiction of the name and mascot or symbol of a state university, regional university, or state college as defined in RCW 28B.10.016.
[ 1994 c 194 s 1.]

catchline: Collegiate license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.130

text:
"Combination of vehicles" means every combination of motor vehicle and motor vehicle, motor vehicle and trailer or motor vehicle and semitrailer.
[ 1963 c 154 s 26; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.130. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 14; 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—1963 c 154: See note following RCW 46.37.010.

catchline: Combination of vehicles.


title: RCW 46.04.136

text:
"Commercial trailer" means a trailer that is principally used to transport commodities, merchandise, produce, freight, or animals.
[ 2010 c 161 s 110.]
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: Commercial trailer.


title: RCW 46.04.140

text:
"Commercial vehicle" means any vehicle the principal use of which is the transportation of commodities, merchandise, produce, freight, animals, or passengers for hire.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.140. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 15; 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: Commercial vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.142

text:
"Confidential license plates" and "undercover license plates" mean standard issue license plates assigned to vehicles owned or operated by public agencies. These license plates are used as specifically authorized under RCW 46.08.066.
[ 2010 c 161 s 111.]
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: Confidential license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.143

text:
"Converter gear" means an auxiliary axle, booster axle, dolly, or jeep axle.
[ 2010 c 161 s 112.]
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: Converter gear.


title: RCW 46.04.150

text:
"County road" means every public highway or part thereof, outside the limits of cities and towns and which has not been designated as a state highway.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.150. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 16; 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: County road.


title: RCW 46.04.160

text:
"Crosswalk" means the portion of the roadway between the intersection area and a prolongation or connection of the farthest sidewalk line or in the event there are no sidewalks then between the intersection area and a line ten feet therefrom, except as modified by a marked crosswalk.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.160. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 17; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Crosswalk.


title: RCW 46.04.161

text:
"Custom vehicle" means any motor vehicle that:
(1) Is at least thirty years old and of a model year after 1948 or was manufactured to resemble a vehicle at least thirty years old and of a model year after 1948; 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 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 114: See note following RCW 46.04.572.

catchline: Custom vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.1615

text:
"Data services" means the practice of providing data sets to governmental entities and businesses, as authorized or required by law.
[ 2021 c 93 s 1.]

catchline: Data services.


title: RCW 46.04.162

text:
The term "department" shall mean the department of licensing unless a different department is specified.
[ 1979 c 158 s 126; 1975 c 25 s 4. Formerly RCW 46.04.690.]

catchline: Department.


title: RCW 46.04.163

text:
The term "director" shall mean the director of licensing unless the director of a different department of government is specified.
[ 1979 c 158 s 127; 1975 c 25 s 5. Formerly RCW 46.04.695.]

catchline: Director.


title: RCW 46.04.164

text:
"Disabled American veteran license plates" means special license plates issued to a veteran, as defined in RCW 41.04.007, who meets the requirements provided in RCW 46.18.235.
[ 2010 c 161 s 113.]
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: Disabled American veteran license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.1640

text:
"Donate life license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that displays the donate life logo.
[ 2025 c 385 s 20.]
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: Donate life license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.1641

text:
"Drifting" means a driver intentionally oversteers a vehicle, causing loss of traction, while maneuvering a vehicle in a turning direction.
[ 2023 c 283 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 283: See note following RCW 46.04.367.

catchline: Drifting.


title: RCW 46.04.165

text:
"Driveaway-towaway operation" means any operation in which any motor vehicle, trailer or semitrailer, singly or in combination, new or used, constitutes the commodity being transported when one set or more wheels of any such vehicle are on the roadway during the course of transportation, whether or not any such vehicle furnishes the motive power.
[ 1963 c 154 s 27.]
Notes:
Effective date—1963 c 154: See note following RCW 46.37.010.

catchline: Driveaway-towaway operation.


title: RCW 46.04.167

text:
Whenever the term "driver education" is used in the code, it shall be defined to mean "traffic safety education".
[ 1969 ex.s. c 218 s 12. Formerly RCW 46.04.700.]

catchline: Driver education.


title: RCW 46.04.168

text:
"Driving privilege withheld" means that the department has revoked, suspended, or denied a person's Washington state driver's license, permit to drive, driving privilege, or nonresident driving privilege.
[ 1999 c 6 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—1999 c 6: "(1) This act is intended to edit some of the statutes relating to driver's licenses in order to make those statutes more comprehensible to the citizenry of the state of Washington. The legislature does not intend to make substantive changes in the meaning, interpretation, court construction, or constitutionality of any provision of chapter 46.20 RCW or other statutory provisions or rules adopted under those provisions.
(2) This act is technical in nature and does not terminate or in any way modify any rights, proceedings, or liabilities, civil or criminal, that exist on July 25, 1999." [ 1999 c 6 s 1.]

catchline: Driving privilege withheld.


title: RCW 46.04.169

text:
(1) "Electric-assisted bicycle" means a bicycle with two or three wheels, a saddle, fully operative pedals for human propulsion, and an electric motor. The electric-assisted bicycle's electric motor must have a power output of no more than 750 watts. The electric-assisted bicycle must meet the requirements of one of the following three classifications:
(a) "Class 1 electric-assisted bicycle" means an electric-assisted bicycle in which the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour;
(b) "Class 2 electric-assisted bicycle" means an electric-assisted bicycle in which the motor may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle and is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour; or
(c) "Class 3 electric-assisted bicycle" means an electric-assisted bicycle in which the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour and is equipped with a speedometer.
(2) "Electric-assisted bicycle" does not include:
(a) Any vehicle capable of exceeding 20 miles per hour on solely its electric motor; or
(b) Any vehicle that is designed, manufactured, or intended by the manufacturer or seller to be easily configured in order not to meet the requirements of an electric-assisted bicycle, whether by a mechanical switch or button, by changing a setting in software controlling the drive system, by use of an online application, or through other means intended by the manufacturer or seller.
[ 2026 c 159 s 2; 2018 c 60 s 1; 1997 c 328 s 1.]
Notes:
Legislative recognition—2026 c 159: "The legislature recognizes the recent proliferation of electric motorcycle use statewide, especially among teenagers and young adults. The legislature also recognizes that there is a growing need to focus on the differences between electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles to provide a clear means of regulating each type of vehicle. While this work is occurring, the legislature recognizes that the current definitions of "motorcycle" and "moped" apply to many of the vehicles excluded from the "electric-assisted bicycle" definition in RCW 46.04.169." [ 2026 c 159 s 1.]

catchline: Electric-assisted bicycle—Class 1 electric-assisted bicycle—Class 2 electric-assisted bicycle—Class 3 electric-assisted bicycle.


title: RCW 46.04.1695

text:
"Electric personal assistive mobility device" (EPAMD) means (1) a self-balancing device with two wheels not in tandem, designed to transport only one person by an electric propulsion system with an average power of seven hundred fifty watts (one horsepower) having a maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a propulsion system while ridden by an operator weighing one hundred seventy pounds, of less than twenty miles per hour or (2) a self-balancing device with one wheel designed to transport only one person by an electric propulsion system with an average power of two thousand watts (two and two-thirds horsepower) having a maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a propulsion system, of less than twenty miles per hour.
[ 2015 c 145 s 2; 2002 c 247 s 1.]
Notes:
Finding—2015 c 145: "The legislature finds that at least two companies in Washington have developed a one-wheeled device for people to use to travel from place to place. These devices are unregulated and can travel wherever and however they like. By adding these devices to the definition of an electric personal assistive mobility device, they become regulated and local communities can determine locations that are appropriate for their use." [ 2015 c 145 s 1.]
Legislative review—2002 c 247: "The legislature shall review the provisions of this act and make any necessary changes by July 1, 2005." [ 2002 c 247 s 9.]

catchline: Electric personal assistive mobility device (EPAMD).


title: RCW 46.04.1697

text:
"Electronic commerce" may include, but is not limited to, transactions conducted over the Internet or by telephone or other electronic means.
[ 2004 c 249 s 1.]

catchline: Electronic commerce.


title: RCW 46.04.1698

text:
"Empty scale weight" means the weight of a vehicle as it stands without a load.
[ 2010 c 161 s 114.]
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: Empty scale weight.


title: RCW 46.04.1699

text:
"Endangered wildlife license plates" means special license plates that display a symbol or artwork symbolizing endangered wildlife in Washington state.
[ 2010 c 161 s 115.]
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: Endangered wildlife license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.16991

text:
"Excessive speeding" means traveling at:
(1) 10 miles per hour or greater in excess of the posted speed limit, if the posted speed limit is 40 miles per hour or less; and
(2) 20 miles per hour or greater in excess of the posted speed limit, if the posted speed limit is greater than 40 miles per hour.
[ 2025 c 228 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Finding—Short title—Effective date—2025 c 228: See notes following RCW 46.20.760.

catchline: Excessive speeding. (Effective January 1, 2029.)


title: RCW 46.04.170

text:
"Explosives" means any chemical compound or mechanical mixture that is commonly used or intended for the purpose of producing an explosion, and which contains any oxidizing or combustible units or other ingredients in such proportions, quantities or packing that an ignition by fire, by friction, by concussion, by percussion or by detonation of any part of the compound mixture may cause such a sudden generation of highly heated gases that the resultant gaseous pressures are capable of producing destructible effects on contiguous objects or of destroying life or limb.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.170. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 18; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part. Cf. 1951 c 102 s 3.]

catchline: Explosives.


title: RCW 46.04.174

text:
"Facial recognition matching system" means a system that compares the biometric template derived from an image of an applicant or holder of a driver's license, permit, or identicard with the biometric templates derived from the images in the department's negative file.
[ 2012 c 80 s 3.]

catchline: Facial recognition matching system.


title: RCW 46.04.180

text:
"Farm tractor" means every motor vehicle designed and used primarily as a farm implement for drawing plows, mowing machines, and other implements of husbandry.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.180. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 19; 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: Farm tractor.


title: RCW 46.04.181

text:
"Farm vehicle" means any vehicle other than a farm tractor or farm implement which is: (1) Designed and/or used primarily in agricultural pursuits on farms for the purpose of transporting machinery, equipment, implements, farm products, supplies and/or farm labor thereon and is only incidentally operated on or moved along public highways for the purpose of going from one farm to another or between locations supporting farming operations; or (2) for purposes of RCW 46.25.050, used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery, farm supplies, or any combination of these materials to or from a farm.
[ 2013 c 299 s 3; 2012 c 130 s 1; 1967 c 202 s 1.]

catchline: Farm vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.182

text:
"Farmer" means any person, firm, partnership or corporation engaged in farming. If a person, firm, partnership or corporation is engaged in activities in addition to that of farming, the definition shall only apply to that portion of the activity that is defined as farming in RCW 46.04.183.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 281 s 58.]

catchline: Farmer.


title: RCW 46.04.183

text:
"Farming" means the cultivation and tillage of the soil, dairying, the production, cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural or horticultural commodities (except forestry or forestry operations), the raising of livestock, bees, fur-bearing animals, or poultry, and any practices performed on a farm as an incident to or in conjunction with such farming operations.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 281 s 59.]

catchline: Farming.


title: RCW 46.04.184

text:
"Firefighter memorial license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the Maltese cross with the words "never forget."
[ 2025 c 385 s 19.]
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: Firefighter memorial license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.186

text:
"Fixed load vehicle" means a commercial vehicle that has a structure or machinery permanently attached such as, but not limited to, an air compressor, a bunk house, a conveyor, a cook house, a donkey engine, a hoist, a rock crusher, a tool house, or a well drilling machine. Fixed load vehicles are not capable of carrying any additional load other than the structure or machinery permanently attached.
[ 2010 c 161 s 116.]
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: Fixed load vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.187

text:
"Flammable liquid" means any liquid which has a flash point of 70° Fahrenheit, or less, as determined by a Tagliabue or equivalent closed cup test device.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.210. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 22; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part. Cf. 1951 c 102 s 3. Formerly RCW 46.04.210.]

catchline: Flammable liquid.


title: RCW 46.04.190

text:
"For hire vehicle" means any motor vehicle used for the transportation of persons for compensation, except auto stages and ride-sharing vehicles.
[ 1979 c 111 s 13; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.190. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 20; 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.]
Notes:
Severability—1979 c 111: See note following RCW 46.74.010.
Ride sharing: Chapter 46.74 RCW.

catchline: For hire vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.192

text:
"Former prisoner of war license plates" means special license plates that may be issued to former prisoners of war as authorized under RCW 46.18.235.
[ 2010 c 161 s 117.]
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: Former prisoner of war license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.193

text:
"Fred Hutch license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the logo of the Fred Hutchinson cancer research center.
[ 2017 c 25 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2017 c 25: See note following RCW 46.18.200.

catchline: Fred Hutch license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.194

text:
"Garbage truck" means a truck specially designed and used exclusively for garbage or refuse operations.
[ 1983 c 68 s 1.]

catchline: Garbage truck.


title: RCW 46.04.1945

text:
"Golf cart" means a gas-powered or electric-powered four-wheeled vehicle originally designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting purposes and has a speed attainable in one mile of not more than twenty miles per hour. A golf cart is not a nonhighway vehicle or off-road vehicle as defined in RCW 46.04.365.
[ 2011 c 171 s 12; 2010 c 217 s 3.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Golf cart.


title: RCW 46.04.1951

text:
"Gonzaga University alumni association license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of the Gonzaga University alumni association in Washington state.
[ 2011 c 171 s 13; 2005 c 85 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Gonzaga University alumni association license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.1953

text:
"Gross vehicle weight rating" means the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum load weight of a single vehicle.
[ 2010 c 161 s 118.]
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: Gross vehicle weight rating.


title: RCW 46.04.196

text:
"Helping Kids Speak license plates" means license plates that display a symbol of an organization that supports programs that provide free diagnostic and therapeutic services to children who have a severe delay in language or speech development.
[ 2004 c 48 s 2.]

catchline: Helping Kids Speak license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.197

text:
Highway means the entire width between the boundary lines of every way publicly maintained when any part thereof is open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel.
[ 1965 ex.s. c 155 s 87. Formerly RCW 46.04.431.]

catchline: Highway.


title: RCW 46.04.1971

text:
"Historical throwback license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display white lettering on a black background in a style similar to historical license plates issued in the early 20th century.
[ 2025 c 385 s 22.]
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: Historical throwback license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.199

text:
"Horseless carriage license plate" is a special license plate that may be assigned to a vehicle manufactured or built before January 1, 1916, and meets the qualifications listed in RCW 46.18.255.
[ 2025 c 332 s 2; 2017 c 147 s 1; 2010 c 161 s 120.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 332: See note following RCW 46.18.255.
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: Horseless carriage license plate.


title: RCW 46.04.200

text:
"Hours of darkness" means the hours from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, and any other time when persons or objects may not be clearly discernible at a distance of five hundred feet.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.200. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 21; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Hours of darkness.


title: RCW 46.04.204

text:
"Hybrid motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that uses multiple power sources or fuel types for propulsion and meets the federal definition of a hybrid motor vehicle.
[ 2010 c 161 s 121.]
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: Hybrid motor vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.209

text:
(1) "Identity information" means information that identifies an individual, or may be used to determine the identity of an individual, including:
(a) Federal tax identification number or employer identification number;
(b) Residential and mailing address, but not the five-digit zip code;
(c) Email address;
(d) Telephone number;
(e) Registered and legal vehicle owner name;
(f) Gender;
(g) Place of birth;
(h) Voter information status; and
(i) Selective service information.
(2) "Personal information" has the same meaning as in RCW 42.56.590.
[ 2021 c 93 s 2.]

catchline: Identity information.


title: RCW 46.04.215

text:
"Ignition interlock device" means breath alcohol analyzing ignition equipment or other biological or technical device certified in conformance with RCW 43.43.395 and rules adopted by the state patrol and designed to prevent a motor vehicle from being operated by a person who has consumed an alcoholic beverage.
[ 2010 c 268 s 1; 2005 c 200 s 1; 1997 c 229 s 9; 1994 c 275 s 23; 1987 c 247 s 3. Formerly RCW 46.20.730.]
Notes:
Effective date—1997 c 229: See note following RCW 10.05.090.
Short title—Effective date—1994 c 275: See notes following RCW 46.04.015.

catchline: Ignition interlock device.


title: RCW 46.04.217

text:
"Ignition interlock driver's license" means a permit issued to a person by the department that allows the person to operate a noncommercial motor vehicle with an ignition interlock device while the person's regular driver's license is suspended, revoked, or denied.
[ 2008 c 282 s 1.]

catchline: Ignition interlock driver's license.


title: RCW 46.04.218

text:
"Intelligent speed assistance device" means a technical device designed to be installed within a motor vehicle to actively monitor and prevent the driver from exceeding a preset limit. "Intelligent speed assistance device" does not include any technology that is provided by the vehicle manufacturer as a component of a new motor vehicle and that controls or affects the speed of a motor vehicle.
[ 2025 c 228 s 3.]
Notes:
Intent—Finding—Short title—Effective date—2025 c 228: See notes following RCW 46.20.760.

catchline: Intelligent speed assistance device. (Effective January 1, 2029.)


title: RCW 46.04.220

text:
(1) "Intersection area" means the area embraced within the prolongation or connection of the lateral curb lines, or, if none then the lateral boundary lines of the roadways of two or more highways which join one another at, or approximately at, right angles, or the area within which vehicles traveling upon different highways joining at any other angle may come in conflict.
(2) Where a highway includes two roadways thirty feet or more apart, then every crossing of each roadway of such divided highway by an intersecting highway shall be regarded as a separate intersection. In the event such intersecting highway also includes two roadways thirty feet or more apart, then every crossing of two roadways of such highways shall be regarded as a separate intersection.
(3) The junction of an alley with a street or highway shall not constitute an intersection.
[ 1975 c 62 s 4; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.220. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 23; 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.]
Notes:
Severability—1975 c 62: See note following RCW 36.75.010.

catchline: Intersection area.


title: RCW 46.04.240

text:
"Intersection control area" means intersection area, together with such modification of the adjacent roadway area as results from the arc of curb corners and together with any marked or unmarked crosswalks adjacent to the intersection.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.240. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 25; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Intersection control area.


title: RCW 46.04.249

text:
"Keep Kids Safe license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display artwork recognizing efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect in Washington state.
[ 2011 c 171 s 14; 2005 c 53 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Keep Kids Safe license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.2491

text:
"Keep Washington evergreen license plate" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display green lettering on a white background in a style similar to the license plates issued by the department in the 1970s.
[ 2025 c 385 s 9.]
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: Keep Washington evergreen license plate.


title: RCW 46.04.251

text:
"Kit vehicle" means a passenger car or light truck assembled from a manufactured kit, and is either (1) a complete kit consisting of a prefabricated body and chassis used to construct a new vehicle, or (2) a kit consisting of a prefabricated body to be mounted on an existing vehicle chassis and drivetrain, commonly referred to as a donor vehicle.
[ 1996 c 225 s 5.]
Notes:
Finding—1996 c 225: See note following RCW 46.04.125.

catchline: Kit vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.260

text:
"Laned highway" means a highway the roadway of which is divided into clearly marked lanes for vehicular traffic.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.260. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 27; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Laned highway.


title: RCW 46.04.265

text:
"Law enforcement memorial license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display a symbol honoring law enforcement officers in Washington killed in the line of duty.
[ 2011 c 171 s 15; 2004 c 221 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.

catchline: Law enforcement memorial license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.270

text:
"Legal owner" means a person having a security interest in a vehicle perfected in accordance with chapter 46.12 RCW or the registered owner of a vehicle unencumbered by a security interest or the lessor of a vehicle unencumbered by a security interest.
[ 1975 c 25 s 1; 1961 c 12 s 46.04.270. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 28; prior: 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part.]

catchline: Legal owner.


title: RCW 46.04.2700

text:
"LeMay-America's Car Museum license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200 that display the LeMay-America's car museum logo, name, or related image.
[ 2025 c 385 s 11.]
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: LeMay-America's car museum license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.2701

text:
"License plate" means a plate that may be issued to a vehicle owner by the department or by an authorized entity for vehicle licensing or identification purposes. "License plates" do not include: (1) Temporary license plates; or (2) metal tags issued for the purposes of licensing wheeled all-terrain vehicles.
[ 2022 c 132 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2022 c 132: "This act takes effect July 1, 2023." [ 2022 c 132 s 8.]

catchline: License plate.


title: RCW 46.04.271

text:
"Light truck" means a motor vehicle manufactured as a truck with a declared gross weight of twelve thousand pounds or less.
[ 2010 c 161 s 122.]
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: Light truck.


title: RCW 46.04.272

text:
(1) "Lightweight stud" means a stud intended for installation and use in a vehicle tire. As used in this title, this means a stud that is recommended by the manufacturer of the tire for the type and size of the tire and that:
(a) Weighs no more than 1.5 grams if the stud conforms to Tire Stud Manufacturing Institute (TSMI) stud size 14 or less;
(b) Weighs no more than 2.3 grams if the stud conforms to TSMI stud size 15 or 16; or
(c) Weighs no more than 3.0 grams if the stud conforms to TSMI stud size 17 or larger.
(2) A lightweight stud may contain any materials necessary to achieve the lighter weight.
(3) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to retractable studs as described in RCW 46.37.420.
[ 2007 c 140 s 1; 1999 c 219 s 1.]

catchline: Lightweight stud.


title: RCW 46.04.274

text:
"Limousine" means a category of for hire, chauffeur-driven, unmetered, unmarked luxury motor vehicles. The director in consultation with the Washington state patrol will by rule define the categories of limousines.
[ 2006 c 98 s 1; 1996 c 87 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2006 c 98: "This act takes effect November 1, 2006." [ 2006 c 98 s 2.]

catchline: Limousine.


title: RCW 46.04.276

text:
"Limousine carrier" means a person engaged in the transportation of a person or group of persons, who, under a single contract, acquires, on a prearranged basis, the use of a limousine to travel to a specified destination or for a particular itinerary. The term "prearranged basis" refers to the manner in which the carrier dispatches vehicles.
[ 1996 c 87 s 3.]

catchline: Limousine carrier.


title: RCW 46.04.280

text:
"Local authorities" includes every county, municipal, or other local public board or body having authority to adopt local police regulations under the Constitution and laws of this state.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.280. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 29; 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.]

catchline: Local authorities.


title: RCW 46.04.290

text:
"Marked crosswalk" means any portion of a roadway distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface thereof.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.290. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 30; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]

catchline: Marked crosswalk.


title: RCW 46.04.292

text:
"Market value threshold amount" means an amount set by rule by the department that is used to determine, together with the age of the vehicle, whether vehicle certificates of title for vehicles aged six years through twenty years should be identified as having been previously destroyed or reported as an insurance total loss.
[ 2010 c 161 s 123.]
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: Market value threshold amount.


title: RCW 46.04.294

text:
"Medal of Honor" means the Medal of Honor military decoration presented by the president of the United States, in the name of congress.
[ 2014 c 181 s 4.]

catchline: Medal of Honor.


title: RCW 46.04.295

text:
"Medium-speed electric vehicle" means a self-propelled, electrically powered four-wheeled motor vehicle, equipped with a roll cage or crush-proof body design, whose speed attainable in one mile is more than twenty-five miles per hour but not more than thirty-five miles per hour and otherwise meets or exceeds the federal regulations set forth in 49 C.F.R. Sec. 571.500.
[ 2010 c 144 s 1; 2007 c 510 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2007 c 510: See note following RCW 46.04.320.

catchline: Medium-speed electric vehicle.


title: RCW 46.04.300

text:
"Metal tire" includes every tire, the bearing surface of which in contact with the highway is wholly or partly of metal or other hard, nonresilient material.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.300. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 31; 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: Metal tire.


title: RCW 46.04.301

text:
"Military affiliate radio system license plates" means special license plates displaying official military affiliate radio system call letters assigned by the United States department of defense.
[ 2010 c 161 s 124.]
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: Military affiliate radio system license plates.


title: RCW 46.04.302

text:
"Mobile home" or "manufactured home" means a structure, designed and constructed to be transportable in one or more sections, and is built on a permanent chassis, and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities that include plumbing, heating, and electrical systems contained therein. The structure must comply with the national mobile home construction and safety standards act of 1974 as adopted by chapter 43.22 RCW if applicable. Manufactured home does not include a modular home. A structure which met the definition of a "manufactured home" at the time of manufacture is still considered to meet this definition notwithstanding that it is no longer transportable.
[ 1993 c 154 s 1. Prior: 1989 c 343 s 24; 1989 c 337 s 1; 1977 ex.s. c 22 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 231 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—1989 c 343: See RCW 65.20.950.
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 22: "If any section or provision of this 1977 amendatory act, or its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the section or provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1977 ex.s. c 22 s 10.]
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 231: See note following RCW 46.01.130.

catchline: Mobile home, manufactured home.


title: RCW 46.04.303

text:
"Modular home" means a factory-assembled structure designed primarily for use as a dwelling when connected to the required utilities that include plumbing, heating, and electrical systems contained therein, does not contain its own running gear, and must be mounted on a permanent foundation. A modular home does not include a mobile home or manufactured home.
[ 1990 c 250 s 17; 1971 ex.s. c 231 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 231: See note following RCW 46.01.130.

catchline: Modular home.


title: RCW 46.04.304

text:
"Moped" means a motorized device designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground and having an electric or a liquid fuel motor with a cylinder displacement not exceeding fifty cubic centimeters which produces no more than two gross brake horsepower (developed by a prime mover, as measured by a brake applied to the driving shaft) that is capable of propelling the device at not more than thirty miles per hour on level ground.
[ 2009 c 275 s 1; 1990 c 250 s 18; 1987 c 330 s 702; 1979 ex.s. c 213 s 1.]
Notes:
Construction—Application of rules—Severability—1987 c 330: See notes following RCW 28B.12.050.

catchline: Moped.


title: RCW 46.04.305

text:
"Motor homes" means motor vehicles originally designed, reconstructed, or permanently altered to provide facilities for human habitation, which include lodging and cooking or sewage disposal, and is enclosed within a solid body shell with the vehicle, but excludes a camper or like unit constructed separately and affixed to a motor vehicle.
[ 1990 c 250 s 19; 1971 ex.s. c 231 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 231: See note following RCW 46.01.130.

catchline: Motor homes.


title: RCW 46.04.310

text:
"Motor truck" means any motor vehicle designed or used for the transportation of commodities, merchandise, produce, freight, or animals.
[ 1961 c 12 s 46.04.310. Prior: 1959 c 49 s 32; 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.]

catchline: Motor truck.