Washington: notifying the DMV after you sell

Washington requires you to tell the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) when you sell your car. Filing protects you from tickets, tolls or accidents involving the car after it leaves your hands.

At a glance

• Required? Yes, by law
• Deadline: Within 5 business days of the sale
• Form: Report of Sale
• Where to file: Online, by mail, or at a vehicle licensing office
• Fee: A small fee applies

How to file

1. File a Report of Sale online, by mail, or at a vehicle licensing office.
2. List Plug as the buyer. Ask your Plug contact for Plug's name and address.
3. Save your confirmation.

Your license plates

• Remove your plates before pickup. They're yours, not the car's.
• Transfer or surrender them.

Keep for your records

• Your filing confirmation or a copy of the form
• A copy of the signed title
• Your Bill of Sale

Official source

Washington DOL: Buying and selling a vehicle

← Back to all states · Related: After the sale: insurance, registration and plates

DMV rules change. Last reviewed October 2026. Check the Washington DOL site for the latest requirements.