State Washington 46.16 RCW Vehicle licenses Chapter 46.16 RCW Vehicle licenses Notes: Auto transportation companies: Chapter 81.68 RCW. Free license plates disabled veterans, prisoners of war: RCW 73.04.110. surviving spouse of prisoner of war: RCW 73.04.115. Rental cars: RCW 46.87.023. Special license plates -- Fee -- Hulk haulers or scrap processors: RCW 46.79.060. Unprocessed agricultural products, license for transport: RCW 20.01.120. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.006 "Registration year" defined — Registration months — "Last day of the month." (1) The term "registration year" for the purposes of chapters 46.16, 82.44, and 82.50 RCW means the effective period of a vehicle license issued by the department. Such year commences at 12:01 a.m. on the date of the calendar year designated by the department and ends at 12:01 a.m. on the same date of the next succeeding calendar year. If a vehicle license previously issued in this state has expired and is renewed with a different registered owner, a new registration year is deemed to commence upon the date the expired license is renewed in order that the renewed license be useable for a full twelve-month period. (2) Each registration year may be divided into twelve registration months. Each registration month commences on the day numerically corresponding to the day of the calendar month on which the registration year begins, and terminates on the numerically corresponding day of the next succeeding calendar month. (3) Where the term "last day of the month" is used in chapters 46.16, 82.44, and 82.50 RCW in lieu of a specified day of any calendar month it means the last day of such calendar month or months irrespective of the numerical designation of that day. (4) If the final day of a registration year or month falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, such period extends through the end of the next business day. [1992 c 222 § 1; 1983 c 27 § 1; 1981 c 214 § 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 1.] Notes: Effective date -- 1975 1st ex.s. c 118: "This 1975 amendatory act shall take effect on January 1, 1977: PROVIDED, That the director of the department of motor vehicles may, prior to such effective date, undertake and perform duties and conduct activities necessary for the timely implementation of this 1975 amendatory act on such date." [1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 19.] Severability -- 1975 1st ex.s. c 118: "If any provision of this 1975 amendatory act is declared unconstitutional, or the applicability thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the constitutionality of the remainder of this 1975 amendatory act and the applicability thereof to persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby." [1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 18.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.010 Licenses and plates required — Penalties — Exceptions. (1) It is unlawful for a person to operate any vehicle over and along a public highway of this state without first having obtained and having in full force and effect a current and proper vehicle license and display vehicle license number plates therefor as by this chapter provided. (2) Failure to make initial registration before operation on the highways of this state is a traffic infraction, and any person committing this infraction shall pay a penalty of five hundred twenty-nine dollars, no part of which may be suspended or deferred. (3) Failure to renew an expired registration before operation on the highways of this state is a traffic infraction. (4) The licensing of a vehicle in another state by a resident of this state, as defined in RCW 46.16.028, evading the payment of any tax or license fee imposed in connection with registration, is a gross misdemeanor punishable as follows: (a) For a first offense, up to one year in the county jail and payment of a fine of five hundred twenty-nine dollars plus twice the amount of delinquent taxes and fees, no part of which may be suspended or deferred; (b) For a second or subsequent offense, up to one year in the county jail and payment of a fine of five hundred twenty-nine dollars plus four times the amount of delinquent taxes and fees, no part of which may be suspended or deferred; (c) For fines levied under (b) of this subsection, an amount equal to the avoided taxes and fees owed will be deposited in the vehicle licensing fraud account created in the state treasury; (d) The avoided taxes and fees shall be deposited and distributed in the same manner as if the taxes and fees were properly paid in a timely fashion. (5) These provisions shall not apply to the following vehicles: (a) Motorized foot scooters; (b) Electric-assisted bicycles; (c) Off-road vehicles operating on nonhighway roads under RCW 46.09.115; (d) Farm vehicles if operated within a radius of fifteen miles of the farm where principally used or garaged, farm tractors and farm implements including trailers designed as cook or bunk houses used exclusively for animal herding temporarily operating or drawn upon the public highways, and trailers used exclusively to transport farm implements from one farm to another during the daylight hours or at night when such equipment has lights that comply with the law; (e) Spray or fertilizer applicator rigs designed and used exclusively for spraying or fertilization in the conduct of agricultural operations and not primarily for the purpose of transportation, and nurse rigs or equipment auxiliary to the use of and designed or modified for the fueling, repairing, or loading of spray and fertilizer applicator rigs and not used, designed, or modified primarily for the purpose of transportation; (f) Fork lifts operated during daylight hours on public highways adjacent to and within five hundred feet of the warehouses which they serve: PROVIDED FURTHER, That these provisions shall not apply to vehicles used by the state parks and recreation commission exclusively for park maintenance and operations upon public highways within state parks; (g) "Trams" used for transporting persons to and from facilities related to the horse racing industry as regulated in chapter 67.16 RCW, as long as the public right-of-way routes over which the trams operate are not more than one mile from end to end, the public rights-of-way over which the tram operates have an average daily traffic of not more than 15,000 vehicles per day, and the activity is in conformity with federal law. The operator must be a licensed driver and at least eighteen years old. For the purposes of this section, "tram" also means a vehicle, or combination of vehicles linked together with a single mode of propulsion, used to transport persons from one location to another; (h) "Special highway construction equipment" defined as follows: Any vehicle which is designed and used primarily for grading of highways, paving of highways, earth moving, and other construction work on highways and which is not designed or used primarily for the transportation of persons or property on a public highway and which is only incidentally operated or moved over the highway. It includes, but is not limited to, road construction and maintenance machinery so designed and used such as portable air compressors, air drills, asphalt spreaders, bituminous mixers, bucket loaders, track laying tractors, ditchers, leveling graders, finishing machines, motor graders, paving mixers, road rollers, scarifiers, earth moving scrapers and carryalls, lighting plants, welders, pumps, power shovels and draglines, self-propelled and tractor-drawn earth moving equipment and machinery, including dump trucks and tractor-dump trailer combinations which either (i) are in excess of the legal width, or (ii) which, because of their length, height, or unladen weight, may not be moved on a public highway without the permit specified in RCW 46.44.090 and which are not operated laden except within the boundaries of the project limits as defined by the contract, and other similar types of construction equipment, or (iii) which are driven or moved upon a public highway only for the purpose of crossing such highway from one property to another, provided such movement does not exceed five hundred feet and the vehicle is equipped with wheels or pads which will not damage the roadway surface. Exclusions: "Special highway construction equipment" does not include any of the following: Dump trucks originally designed to comply with the legal size and weight provisions of this code notwithstanding any subsequent modification which would require a permit, as specified in RCW 46.44.090, to operate such vehicles on a public highway, including trailers, truck-mounted transit mixers, cranes and shovels, or other vehicles designed for the transportation of persons or property to which machinery has been attached. (6) The following vehicles, whether operated solo or in combination, are exempt from license registration and displaying license plates as required by this chapter: (a) A converter gear used to convert a semitrailer into a trailer or a two-axle truck or tractor into a three or more axle truck or tractor or used in any other manner to increase the number of axles of a vehicle. Converter gear includes an auxiliary axle, booster axle, dolly, and jeep axle. (b) A tow dolly that is used for towing a motor vehicle behind another motor vehicle. The front or rear wheels of the towed vehicle are secured to and rest on the tow dolly that is attached to the towing vehicle by a tow bar. (7)(a) A motor vehicle subject to initial or renewal registration under this section shall not be registered to a natural person unless the person at time of application: (i) Presents an unexpired Washington state driver's license; or (ii) Certifies that he or she is: (A) A Washington resident who does not operate a motor vehicle on public roads; or (B) Exempt from the requirement to obtain a Washington state driver's license under RCW 46.20.025. (b) For shared or joint ownership, the department will set up procedures to verify that all owners meet the requirements of this subsection. (c) A person falsifying residency is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable only by a fine of five hundred twenty-nine dollars. (d) The department may adopt rules necessary to implement this subsection, including rules under which a natural person applying for registration may be exempt from the requirements of this subsection where the person provides evidence satisfactory to the department that he or she has a valid and compelling reason for not being able to meet the requirements of this subsection. [2005 c 350 § 1; 2005 c 323 § 2; 2005 c 213 § 6. Prior: 2003 c 353 § 8; 2003 c 53 § 238; 2000 c 229 § 1; 1999 c 277 § 4; prior: 1997 c 328 § 2; 1997 c 241 § 13; 1996 c 184 § 1; 1993 c 238 § 1; 1991 c 163 § 1; 1989 c 192 § 2; 1986 c 186 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 148 § 1; 1973 1st ex.s. c 17 § 2; 1972 ex.s. c 5 § 2; 1969 c 27 § 3; 1967 c 202 § 2; 1963 ex.s. c 3 § 51; 1961 ex.s. c 21 § 32; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.010; prior: 1955 c 265 § 1; 1947 c 33 § 1; 1937 c 188 § 15; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-15; 1929 c 99 § 5; RRS § 6324.] Notes:Rules of court: Monetary penalty schedule -- IRLJ 6.2. Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2005 c 213 § 6, 2005 c 323 § 2, and by 2005 c 350 § 1, each without reference to the other. All 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 -- 2005 c 350: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 9, 2005]." [2005 c 350 § 2.] Declaration and intent--2005 c 323: "When a person establishes residency in this state, unless otherwise exempt by statute, the person must register any vehicles to be operated on public highways, and pay all required licensing fees and taxes. Washington residents must renew vehicle registrations annually as well. The intent of this act is to increase the monetary penalties associated with failure to properly register vehicles in the state of Washington." [2005 c 323 § 1.] Effective date -- 2005 c 323: "This act takes effect August 1, 2005." [2005 c 323 § 4.] Application -- 2005 c 323: "This act applies to registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006." [2005 c 323 § 5.] Findings--Construction--Effective date -- 2005 c 213: See notes following RCW 46.09.010. Effective date -- 2003 c 353: See note following RCW 46.04.320. Intent -- Effective date -- 2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180. Effective date -- 2000 c 229: "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 30, 2000]." [2000 c 229 § 9.] Effective date -- 1996 c 184 §§ 1-6: "Sections 1 through 6 of this act take effect January 1, 1997." [1996 c 184 § 8.] Legislative intent -- 1989 c 192: "The legislature recognizes that there are residents of this state who intentionally register motor vehicles in other states to evade payment of taxes and fees required by the laws of this state. This results in a substantial loss of revenue to the state. It is the intent of the legislature to impose a stronger criminal penalty upon those residents who defraud the state, thereby enhancing compliance with the registration laws of this state and further enhancing enforcement and collection efforts. In order to encourage voluntary compliance with the registration laws of this state, administrative penalties associated with failing to register a motor vehicle are waived until September 1, 1989. It is not the intent of the legislature to waive traffic infraction or criminal traffic violations imposed prior to July 23, 1989." [1989 c 192 § 1.] Effective date -- 1989 c 192 § 2: "Section 2 of this act shall take effect September 1, 1989." [1989 c 192 § 3.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.0105 Exemption — Vehicles in national recreation areas. After initial vehicle registration, motor vehicles operated solely within a national recreation area that is not accessible by a state highway are exempt from annual registration renewal and the associated fees under RCW 46.16.0621. [2005 c 79 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.011 Allowing unauthorized person to drive — Penalty. It is unlawful for any person in whose name a vehicle is registered knowingly to permit another person to drive the vehicle when the other person is not authorized to do so under the laws of this state. A violation of this section is a misdemeanor. [1987 c 388 § 10.] Notes: Severability -- 1987 c 388: See note following RCW 46.20.342. Allowing unauthorized child to drive: RCW 46.20.024. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.012 Immunity from liability for licensing nonroadworthy vehicle. The director, the state of Washington, and its political subdivisions shall be immune from civil liability arising from the issuance of a vehicle license to a nonroadworthy vehicle. [1986 c 186 § 5.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.015 Emission control inspections required — Exceptions — Educational information. (1) Neither the department of licensing nor its agents may issue or renew a motor vehicle license for any vehicle or change the registered owner of a licensed vehicle, for any vehicle that is required to be inspected under chapter 70.120 RCW, unless the application for issuance or renewal is: (a) Accompanied by a valid certificate of compliance or a valid certificate of acceptance issued pursuant to chapter 70.120 RCW; or (b) exempted from this requirement pursuant to subsection (2) of this section. The certificates must have a date of validation which is within six months of the date of application for the vehicle license or license renewal. Certificates for fleet or owner tested diesel vehicles may have a date of validation which is within twelve months of the assigned license renewal date. (2) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to the following vehicles: (a) New motor vehicles whose equitable or legal title has never been transferred to a person who in good faith purchases the vehicle for purposes other than resale; (b) Motor vehicles with a model year of 1967 or earlier; (c) Motor vehicles that use propulsion units powered exclusively by electricity; (d) Motor vehicles fueled by propane, compressed natural gas, or liquid petroleum gas, unless it is determined that federal sanctions will be imposed as a result of this exemption; (e) Motorcycles as defined in RCW 46.04.330 and motor-driven cycles as defined in RCW 46.04.332; (f) Farm vehicles as defined in RCW 46.04.181; (g) Used vehicles which are offered for sale by a motor vehicle dealer licensed under chapter 46.70 RCW; (h) Classes of motor vehicles exempted by the director of the department of ecology; (i) Collector cars as identified by the department of licensing under RCW 46.16.305(1); (j) Beginning January 1, 2000, vehicles that are less than five years old or more than twenty-five years old; or (k) Hybrid motor vehicles that obtain a rating by the environmental protection agency of at least fifty miles per gallon of gas during city driving. For purposes of this section, a hybrid motor vehicle is one that uses propulsion units powered by both electricity and gas. The provisions of (a) of this subsection may not be construed as exempting from the provisions of subsection (1) of this section applications for the renewal of licenses for motor vehicles that are or have been leased. (3) The department of ecology shall provide information to motor vehicle owners regarding the boundaries of emission contributing areas and restrictions established under this section that apply to vehicles registered in such areas. In addition the department of ecology shall provide information to motor vehicle owners on the relationship between motor vehicles and air pollution and steps motor vehicle owners should take to reduce motor vehicle related air pollution. The department of licensing shall send to all registered motor vehicle owners affected by the emission testing program notice that they must have an emission test to renew their registration. [2002 c 24 § 1; 1998 c 342 § 6; 1991 c 199 § 209; 1990 c 42 § 318; 1989 c 240 § 1; 1985 c 7 § 111. Prior: 1983 c 238 § 1; 1983 c 237 § 3; 1980 c 176 § 1; 1979 ex.s. c 163 § 11.] Notes: Finding -- 1991 c 199: See note following RCW 70.94.011. Effective dates -- Severability -- Captions not law -- 1991 c 199: See RCW 70.94.904 through 70.94.906. Purpose -- Headings -- Severability -- Effective dates -- Application -- Implementation -- 1990 c 42: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. Effective date -- 1989 c 240: See RCW 70.120.902. Severability -- 1983 c 238: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [1983 c 238 § 3.] Legislative finding -- 1983 c 237: See note following RCW 46.37.467. Effective date -- 1979 ex.s. c 163 § 11: "Section 11 of this act shall take effect on January 1, 1982. The director of the department of licensing and the director of the department of ecology are authorized to take immediately such steps as are necessary to ensure that section 11 of this act is implemented on its effective date." [1979 ex.s. c 163 § 16.] Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 163: See note following RCW 70.120.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.016 Emission control inspections — Rules for licensing requirements. The director of the department of licensing shall adopt rules implementing and enforcing RCW 46.16.015, except for *RCW 46.16.015(2)(g) in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW. [1979 ex.s. c 163 § 15.] Notes: *Reviser's note: RCW 46.16.015 was amended by 1991 c 199 § 209, changing subsection (2)(g) to subsection (2)(f). Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 163: See note following RCW 70.120.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.017 Emission standards — Compliance required to register, lease, rent, or sell vehicles — Exemptions. After adoption of rules specified in RCW 70.120A.010, no vehicle shall be registered, leased, rented, or sold for use in the state starting with the model year as provided in RCW 70.120A.010 unless the vehicle: (1)(a) Is consistent with the vehicle emission standards as adopted by the department of ecology; (b) is consistent with the carbon dioxide equivalent emission standards as adopted by the department of ecology; and (c) has a California certification label for (i) all emission standards, and (ii) carbon dioxide equivalent emission standards necessary to meet fleet average requirements; or (2) has seven thousand five hundred miles or more. The department of licensing, in consultation with the department of ecology, may adopt rules necessary to implement this section and may provide for reasonable exemptions to these requirements. The department of ecology may exempt public safety vehicles from meeting the standards where the department finds that vehicles necessary to meet the needs of public safety agencies are not otherwise reasonably available. [2005 c 295 § 7.] Notes: Effective date -- 2005 c 295 §§ 1, 2, 7, and 11-13: See note following RCW 70.120A.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.020 Exemptions — State and publicly owned vehicles — Registration. Any vehicle owned, rented, or leased by the state of Washington, or by any county, city, town, school district, or other political subdivision of the state of Washington and used exclusively by them, and all vehicles owned or leased with an option to purchase by the United States government, or by the government of foreign countries, or by international bodies to which the United States government is a signatory by treaty, or owned or leased by the governing body of an Indian tribe located within this state and recognized as a governmental entity by the United States department of the interior, and used exclusively in its or their service shall be exempt from the payment of license fees for the licensing thereof as in this chapter provided: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That such vehicles, except those owned and used exclusively by the United States government and which are identified by clearly exhibited registration numbers or license plates assigned by an instrumentality of that government, shall be registered as prescribed for the license registration of other vehicles and shall display the vehicle license number plates assigned to it. The department shall assign a plate or plates to each vehicle or may assign a block of plates to an agency or political subdivision for further assignment by the agency or political subdivision to individual vehicles registered to it pursuant to this section. The agency, political subdivision, or Indian tribe, except a foreign government or international body, shall pay a fee of two dollars for the plate or plates for each vehicle. An Indian tribe is not entitled to license and register any tribal government service vehicle under this section if that tribe itself licenses or registers any tribal government service vehicles under tribal law. No vehicle license or license number plates shall be issued to any such vehicle under the provisions of this section for the transportation of school children unless and until such vehicle shall have been first personally inspected by the director or the director's duly authorized representative. [1986 c 30 § 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 169 § 5; 1973 1st ex.s. c 132 § 22; 1967 c 32 § 14; 1965 ex.s. c 106 § 1; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.020. Prior: 1939 c 182 § 4; 1937 c 188 § 21; RRS § 6312-21; 1925 ex.s. c 47 § 1; 1921 c 96 § 17; 1919 c 46 § 2; 1917 c 155 § 12; 1915 c 142 § 17; RRS § 6329.] Notes: Severability -- 1973 1st ex.s. c 132: See RCW 46.16.900, 46.70.920. Marking of publicly owned vehicles: RCW 46.08.065 through 46.08.068. Special license plates issued without fee Congressional Medal of Honor recipients: RCW 46.16.305. disabled veterans, prisoners of war: RCW 73.04.110. surviving spouse of prisoner of war: RCW 73.04.115. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.022 Exemptions — Vehicles owned by Indian tribes — Conditions. (1) The provisions of this chapter relating to licensing of vehicles by this state, including the display of vehicle license number plates and license registration certificates, do not apply to vehicles owned or leased by the governing body of an Indian tribe located within this state and recognized as a governmental entity by the United States department of the interior, only when: (a) The vehicle is used exclusively in tribal government service; and (b) The vehicle has been licensed and registered under a law adopted by such tribal government; and (c) Vehicle license number plates issued by the tribe showing the initial or abbreviation of the name of the tribe are displayed on the vehicle substantially as provided therefor in this state; and (d) The tribe has not elected to receive any Washington state license plates for tribal government service vehicles pursuant to RCW 46.16.020; and (e) If required by the department, the tribe provides the department with vehicle description and ownership information similar to that required for vehicles registered in this state, which may include the model year, make, model series, body type, type of power (gasoline, diesel, or other), VIN, and the license plate number assigned to each government service vehicle licensed by that tribe. (2) The provisions of this section are operative as to a vehicle owned or leased by an Indian tribe located within this state and used exclusively in tribal government service only to the extent that under the laws of the tribe like exemptions and privileges are granted to all vehicles duly licensed under the laws of this state for operation of such vehicles on all tribal roads within the tribe's reservation. If under the laws of the tribe, persons operating vehicles licensed by this state are required to pay a license or registration fee or to carry or display vehicle license number plates or a registration certificate issued by the tribe, the tribal government shall comply with the provisions of this state's laws relating to the licensing and registration of vehicles operating on the highways of this state. [1986 c 30 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.023 Ride-sharing vehicles — Special plates — Gross misdemeanor. (1) Every owner or lessee of a vehicle seeking to apply for an excise tax exemption under RCW 82.08.0287, 82.12.0282, or 82.44.015 shall apply to the director for, and upon satisfactory showing of eligibility, receive in lieu of the regular motor vehicle license plates for that vehicle, special plates of a distinguishing separate numerical series or design, as the director shall prescribe. In addition to paying all other initial fees required by law, each applicant for the special license plates shall pay an additional license fee of twenty-five dollars upon the issuance of such plates. The special fee shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund. Application for renewal of the license plates shall be as prescribed for the renewal of other vehicle licenses. No renewal is required for vehicles exempted under RCW 46.16.020. (2) Whenever the ownership of a vehicle receiving special plates under subsection (1) of this section is transferred or assigned, the plates shall be removed from the motor vehicle, and if another vehicle qualifying for special plates is acquired, the plates shall be transferred to that vehicle for a fee of ten dollars, and the director shall be immediately notified of the transfer of the plates. Otherwise the removed plates shall be immediately forwarded to the director to be canceled. Whenever the owner or lessee of a vehicle receiving special plates under subsection (1) of this section is for any reason relieved of the tax-exempt status, the special plates shall immediately be forwarded to the director along with an application for replacement plates and the required fee. Upon receipt the director shall issue the license plates that are otherwise provided by law. (3) Any person who knowingly makes any false statement of a material fact in the application for a special plate under subsection (1) of this section is guilty of a gross misdemeanor. [2004 c 223 § 2; 1993 c 488 § 5; 1987 c 175 § 2.] Notes: Finding -- Annual recertification rule -- Report -- 1993 c 488: See notes following RCW 82.08.0287. Effective date -- 1987 c 175 § 2: "Section 2 of this act shall take effect on January 1, 1988." [1987 c 175 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.025 Identification device for exempt farm vehicles — Application for — Contents — Fee. Before any "farm vehicle", as defined in RCW 46.04.181, shall operate on or move along a public highway, there shall be displayed upon it in a conspicuous manner a decal or other device, as may be prescribed by the director of licensing and issued by the department of licensing, which shall describe in some manner the vehicle and identify it as a vehicle exempt from the licensing requirements of this chapter. Application for such identifying devices shall be made to the department on a form furnished for that purpose by the director. Such application shall be made by the owner or lessee of the vehicle, or his duly authorized agent over the signature of such owner or agent, and he shall certify that the statements therein are true to the best of his knowledge. The application must show: (1) The name and address of the owner of the vehicle; (2) The trade name of the vehicle, model, year, type of body, the motor number or the identification number thereof if such vehicle be a motor vehicle, or the serial number thereof if such vehicle be a trailer; (3) The purpose for which said vehicle is to be principally used; (4) Such other information as shall be required upon such application by the director; and (5) Place where farm vehicle is principally used or garaged. A fee of five dollars shall be charged for and submitted with such application for an identification decal as in this section provided as to each farm vehicle which fee shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund and distributed proportionately as otherwise provided for vehicle license fees under RCW 46.68.030. Only one application need be made as to each such vehicle, and the status as an exempt vehicle shall continue until suspended or revoked for misuse, or when such vehicle no longer is used as a farm vehicle. [1979 c 158 § 139; 1967 c 202 § 3.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.028 "Resident" defined — Vehicle registration required. (1) For the purposes of vehicle license registration, a resident is a person who manifests an intent to live or be located in this state on more than a temporary or transient basis. Evidence of residency includes but is not limited to: (a) Becoming a registered voter in this state; or (b) Receiving benefits under one of the Washington public assistance programs; or (c) Declaring that he or she is a resident for the purpose of obtaining a state license or tuition fees at resident rates. (2) The term "Washington public assistance programs" referred to in subsection (1)(b) of this section includes only public assistance programs for which more than fifty percent of the combined costs of benefits and administration are paid from state funds. Programs which are not included within the term "Washington public assistance programs" pursuant to the above criteria include, but are not limited to the food stamp program under the federal food stamp act of 1964; programs under the child nutrition act of 1966, 42 U.S.C. Secs. 1771 through 1788; and temporary assistance for needy families. (3) A resident of the state shall register under chapters 46.12 and 46.16 RCW a vehicle to be operated on the highways of the state. New Washington residents shall be allowed thirty days from the date they become residents as defined in this section to procure Washington registration for their vehicles. This thirty-day period shall not be combined with any other period of reciprocity provided for in this chapter or chapter 46.85 RCW. [1997 c 59 § 7; 1987 c 142 § 1; 1986 c 186 § 2; 1985 c 353 § 1.] Notes: Effective date -- 1985 c 353: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately, except for section 1 of this act, which shall take effect September 1, 1985." [1985 c 353 § 6.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.029 Purchasing vehicle with foreign plates. It is unlawful to purchase a vehicle bearing foreign license plates without removing and destroying the plates unless (1) the out-of-state vehicle is sold to a Washington resident by a resident of a jurisdiction where the license plates follow the owner or (2) the out-of-state plates may be returned to the jurisdiction of issuance by the owner for refund purposes or (3) for such other reasons as the department may deem appropriate by rule. [1987 c 142 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.030 Nonresident exemption — Reciprocity. Except as is herein provided for foreign businesses, the provisions relative to the licensing of vehicles and display of vehicle license number plates and license registration certificates shall not apply to any vehicles owned by nonresidents of this state if the owner thereof has complied with the law requiring the licensing of vehicles in the names of the owners thereof in force in the state, foreign country, territory or federal district of his or her residence; and the vehicle license number plate showing the initial or abbreviation of the name of such state, foreign country, territory or federal district, is displayed on such vehicle substantially as is provided therefor in this state. The provisions of this section shall be operative as to a vehicle owned by a nonresident of this state only to the extent that under the laws of the state, foreign country, territory or federal district of his or her residence, like exemptions and privileges are granted to vehicles duly licensed under the laws of and owned by residents of this state. If under the laws of such state, foreign country, territory or federal district, vehicles owned by residents of this state, operating upon the highways of such state, foreign country, territory or federal district, are required to pay the license fee and carry the vehicle license number plates of such state, foreign country, territory or federal district, the vehicles owned by residents of such state, foreign country, territory or federal district, and operating upon the highways of this state, shall comply with the provisions of this state relating to the licensing of vehicles. Foreign businesses owning, maintaining, or operating places of business in this state and using vehicles in connection with such places of business, shall comply with the provisions relating to the licensing of vehicles insofar as vehicles used in connection with such places of business are concerned. Under provisions of the international registration plan, the nonmotor vehicles of member and nonmember jurisdictions which are properly based and licensed in such jurisdictions are granted reciprocity in this state as provided in *RCW 46.87.070(2). The director is empowered to make and enforce rules and regulations for the licensing of nonresident vehicles upon a reciprocal basis and with respect to any character or class of operation. [1991 c 163 § 2; 1990 c 42 § 110; 1967 c 32 § 15; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.030. Prior: 1937 c 188 § 23; RRS § 6312-23; 1931 c 120 § 1; 1929 c 99 § 4; 1921 c 96 § 11; 1919 c 59 § 6; 1917 c 155 § 7; 1915 c 142 § 11; RRS § 6322.] Notes: *Reviser's note: RCW 46.87.070 was amended by 2005 c 194 § 5, deleting subsection (1). The language from subsection (2) remains. Purpose -- Headings -- Severability -- Effective dates -- Application -- Implementation -- 1990 c 42: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.035 Exemptions — Private school buses. Any bus or vehicle owned and operated by a private school or schools meeting the requirements of RCW 28A.195.010 and used by that school or schools primarily to transport children to and from school or to transport children in connection with school activities shall be exempt from the payment of license fees for the licensing thereof as in this chapter provided. A license issued by the department for such bus or vehicle shall be considered an exempt license under RCW 82.44.010. [1990 c 33 § 584; 1980 c 88 § 1.] Notes: Purpose -- Statutory references -- Severability -- 1990 c 33: See RCW 28A.900.100 through 28A.900.102. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.040 Form of application — Contents. Application for original vehicle license shall be made on [a] form furnished for the purpose by the department. Such application shall be made by the owner of the vehicle or duly authorized agent over the signature of such owner or agent, and the applicant shall certify that the statements therein are true to the best of the applicant's knowledge. The application must show: (1) Name and address of the owner of the vehicle and, if the vehicle is subject to a security agreement, the name and address of the secured party; (2) Trade name of the vehicle, model, year, type of body, the identification number thereof; (3) The power to be used -- whether electric, steam, gas or other power; (4) The purpose for which said vehicle is to be used and the nature of the license required; (5) The licensed gross weight for such vehicle which in the case of for hire vehicles and auto stages with seating capacity of more than six shall be the adult seating capacity thereof, including the operator, as provided for in RCW 46.16.111. In the case of motor trucks, tractors, and truck tractors, the licensed gross weight shall be the gross weight declared by the applicant pursuant to the provisions of RCW 46.16.111; (6) The unladen weight of such vehicle, if it be a motor truck or trailer, which shall be the shipping weight thereof as given by the manufacturer thereof unless another weight is shown by weight slip verified by a certified weighmaster, which slip shall be attached to the original application; (7) Such other information as shall be required upon such application by the department. [1987 c 244 § 2; 1975 c 25 § 15; 1969 ex.s. c 170 § 2. Prior: 1967 ex.s. c 83 § 59; 1967 c 32 § 16; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.040; prior: 1947 c 164 § 8; 1937 c 188 § 29; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-29; 1921 c 96 § 5; 1919 c 178 § 1; 1919 c 59 § 4; 1915 c 142 § 5; RRS § 6316.] Notes: Severability -- Effective dates -- 1967 ex.s. c 83: See RCW 47.26.900 and 47.26.910. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.045 Temporary permits — Authority — Fees. (1) The department in its discretion may grant a temporary permit to operate a vehicle for which application for registration has been made, where such application is accompanied by the proper fee pending action upon said application by the department. (2) The department may authorize vehicle dealers properly licensed pursuant to chapter 46.70 RCW to issue temporary permits to operate vehicles under such rules and regulations as the department deems appropriate. (3) The fee for each temporary permit application distributed to an authorized vehicle dealer shall be five dollars, which shall be credited to the payment of registration fees at the time application for registration is made. (4) The payment of the registration fees to an authorized dealer is considered payment to the state of Washington. [1990 c 198 § 1; 1973 1st ex.s. c 132 § 23; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.045. Prior: 1959 c 66 § 1.] Notes: Severability -- 1973 1st ex.s. c 132: See RCW 46.16.900, 46.70.920. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.047 Temporary permits — Form and contents — Duration — Fees. Forms for such temporary permits shall be prescribed and furnished by the department. Temporary permits shall bear consecutive numbers, shall show the name and address of the applicant, trade name of the vehicle, model, year, type of body, identification number and date of application, and shall be such as may be affixed to the vehicle at the time of issuance, and remain on such vehicle only during the period of such registration and until the receipt of permanent license plates. The application shall be registered in the office of the person issuing the permit and shall be forwarded by him to the department each day together with the fee accompanying it. A fee of fifty cents shall be charged by the person authorized to issue such permit which shall be accounted for in the same manner as the other fees collected by such officers, provided that such fees collected by county auditors or their agents shall be paid to the county treasurer in the same manner as other fees collected by the county auditor and credited to the county current expense fund. [1961 c 12 § 46.16.047. Prior: 1959 c 66 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.048 Temporary letter of authority for movement of unlicensed vehicle for special community event. The department in its discretion may issue a temporary letter of authority authorizing the movement of an unlicensed vehicle or the temporary usage of a special plate for the purpose of promoting or participating in an event such as a parade, pageant, fair, convention, or other special community activity. The letter of authority may not be issued to or used by anyone for personal gain, but public identification of the sponsor or owner of the donated vehicle shall not be considered to be personal gain. [1977 c 25 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.0621 License fee. (1) License tab fees are required to be $30 per year for motor vehicles, regardless of year, value, make, or model. (2) For the purposes of this section, "license tab fees" are defined as the general fees paid annually for licensing motor vehicles and trailers as defined in RCW 46.04.620 and 46.04.623, including cars, sport utility vehicles, motorcycles, and motor homes. Trailers licensed under RCW 46.16.068 or 46.16.085 and campers licensed under RCW 46.16.505 are not required to pay license tab fees under this section. [2003 c 1 § 2 (Initiative Measure No. 776, approved November 5, 2002); 2002 c 352 § 7; 2000 1st sp.s. c 1 § 1.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2002 c 352 § 7 and by 2003 c 1 § 2 (Initiative Measure No. 776), 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). Severability -- Savings -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): See note following RCW 81.104.160. Policies and purposes -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): "This measure would require license tab fees to be $30 per year for motor vehicles and light trucks and would repeal certain government-imposed charges, including excise taxes and fees, levied on motor vehicles. Politicians promised "$30 license tabs are here to stay" and promised any increases in vehicle-related taxes, fees and surcharges would be put to a public vote. Politicians should keep their promises. As long as taxpayers must pay incredibly high sales taxes when buying motor vehicles (meaning state and local governments receive huge windfalls of sales tax revenue from these transactions), the people want license tab fees to not exceed the promised $30 per year. Without this follow-up measure, "tab creep" will continue until license tab fees are once again obscenely expensive, as they were prior to Initiative 695. The people want a public vote on any increases in vehicle-related taxes, fees and surcharges to ensure increased accountability. Voters will require more cost-effective use of existing revenues and fundamental reforms before approving higher charges on motor vehicles (such changes may remove the need for any increases). Also, dramatic changes to transportation plans and programs previously presented to voters must be resubmitted. This measure provides a strong directive to all taxing districts to obtain voter approval before imposing taxes, fees and surcharges on motor vehicles. However, if the legislature ignores this clear message, a referendum will be filed to protect the voters' rights. Politicians should just do the right thing and keep their promises." [2003 c 1 § 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776, approved November 5, 2002).] Construction -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): "The provisions of this act are to be liberally construed to effectuate the intent, policies, and purposes of this act." [2003 c 1 § 9 (Initiative Measure No. 776, approved November 5, 2002).] Intent -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): "The people have made clear through the passage of numerous initiatives and referenda that taxes need to be reasonable and tax increases should always be a last resort. However, politicians throughout the state of Washington continue to ignore these repeated mandates. The people expect politicians to keep their promises. The legislative intent of this measure is to ensure that they do. Politicians are reminded: (1) Washington voters want license tab fees to be $30 per year for motor vehicles unless voters authorize higher vehicle-related charges at an election. (2) All political power is vested in the people, as stated in Article I, section 1 of the Washington state Constitution. (3) The first power reserved by the people is the initiative, as stated in Article II, section 1 of the Washington state Constitution. (4) When voters approve initiatives, politicians have a moral, ethical, and constitutional obligation to fully implement them. When politicians ignore this obligation, they corrupt the term "public servant." (5) Any attempt to violate the clear intent and spirit of this measure undermines the trust of the people in their government and will increase the likelihood of future tax limitation measures." [2003 c 1 § 11 (Initiative Measure No. 776, approved November 5, 2002).] Effective dates -- 2002 c 352: See note following RCW 46.09.070. Effective date -- 2000 1st sp.s. c 1: "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, 2000]." [2000 1st sp.s. c 1 § 3.] Retroactive application -- 2000 1st sp.s. c 1: "This act applies retroactively to January 1, 2000." [2000 1st sp.s. c 1 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.063 Additional fee for recreational vehicles. In addition to other fees for the licensing of vehicles there shall be paid and collected annually for each camper, travel trailer, and motor home as the same are defined in RCW 82.50.010 a fee of three dollars to be deposited in the RV account of the motor vehicle fund. Under RCW 43.135.055, the department of transportation may increase RV account fees by a percentage that exceeds the fiscal growth factor. After consultation with citizen representatives of the recreational vehicle user community, the department of transportation may implement RV account fee adjustments no more than once every four years. RV account fee adjustments must be preceded by evaluation of the following factors: Maintenance of a self-supporting program, levels of service at existing RV sanitary disposal facilities, identified needs for improved RV service at safety rest areas statewide, sewage treatment costs, and inflation. If the department chooses to adjust the RV account fee, it shall notify the department of licensing six months before implementation of the fee increase. Adjustments in the RV account fee must be in increments of no more than fifty cents per biennium. [1996 c 237 § 1; 1980 c 60 § 2.] Notes: Effective date -- 1996 c 237 § 1: "Section 1 of this act takes effect with motor vehicle fees due or to become due September 1, 1996." [1996 c 237 § 4.] Effective date -- 1980 c 60: See note following RCW 47.38.050. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.068 Trailing units — Permanent plates. Trailing units which are subject to *RCW 82.44.020(4) shall, upon application, be issued a permanent license plate that is valid until the vehicle is sold, permanently removed from the state, or otherwise disposed of by the registered owner. The fee for this license plate is thirty-six dollars. Upon the sale, permanent removal from the state, or other disposition of a trailing unit bearing a permanent license plate the registered owner is required to return the license plate and registration certificate to the department. Violations of this section or misuse of a permanent license plate may subject the registered owner to prosecution or denial, or both, of future permanent registration of any trailing units. This section does not apply to any trailing units subject to the annual excise taxes prescribed in *RCW 82.44.020. The department is authorized to adopt rules to implement this section for leased vehicles and other applications as necessary. [1998 c 321 § 32 (Referendum Bill No. 49, approved November 3, 1998); 1993 c 123 § 4.] Notes: *Reviser's note: RCW 82.44.020 was repealed by 2000 1st sp.s. c 1 § 2. Purpose -- Severability -- 1998 c 321: See notes following RCW 82.14.045. Contingent effective dates -- 1998 c 321 §§ 23-42: See note following RCW 35.58.410. Effective date of 1993 c 102 and c 123 -- 1993 sp.s. c 23: See note following RCW 46.16.070. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.070 License fee on trucks, buses, and for hire vehicles based on gross weight. (Effective until January 1, 2006.) (1) In lieu of all other vehicle licensing fees, unless specifically exempt, and in addition to the mileage fees prescribed for buses and stages in RCW 46.16.125, there shall be paid and collected annually for each truck, motor truck, truck tractor, road tractor, tractor, bus, auto stage, or for hire vehicle with seating capacity of more than six, based upon the declared combined gross weight or declared gross weight under chapter 46.44 RCW, the following licensing fees by such gross weight: DECLARED GROSS WEIGHT SCHEDULE A SCHEDULE B 4,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30.00 6,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30.00 8,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30.00 10,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 62.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 62.00 12,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79.00 14,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 90.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 90.00 16,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 102.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 102.00 18,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 154.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 154.00 20,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 171.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 171.00 22,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 185.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 185.00 24,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 200.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 200.00 26,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 211.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 211.00 28,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 249.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 249.00 30,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 287.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 287.00 32,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 346.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 346.00 34,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 368.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 368.00 36,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 399.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 399.00 38,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 438.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 438.00 40,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 501.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 501.00 42,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 521.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 611.00 44,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 532.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 622.00 46,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 572.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 662.00 48,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 596.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 686.00 50,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 647.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 737.00 52,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 680.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 770.00 54,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 734.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 824.00 56,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 775.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 865.00 58,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 806.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 896.00 60,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 859.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 949.00 62,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 921.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,011.00 64,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 941.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,031.00 66,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,048.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,138.00 68,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,093.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,183.00 70,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,177.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,267.00 72,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,259.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,349.00 74,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,368.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,458.00 76,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,478.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,568.00 78,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,614.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,704.00 80,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,742.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,832.00 82,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,863.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,953.00 84,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,983.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,073.00 86,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,104.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,194.00 88,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,225.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,315.00 90,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,346.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,436.00 92,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,466.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,556.00 94,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,587.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,677.00 96,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,708.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,798.00 98,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,829.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,919.00 100,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,949.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,039.00 102,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,070.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,160.00 104,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,191.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,281.00 105,500 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,312.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,402.00 Schedule A applies to vehicles either used exclusively for hauling logs or that do not tow trailers. Schedule B applies to vehicles that tow trailers and are not covered under Schedule A. Every truck, motor truck, truck tractor, and tractor exceeding 6,000 pounds empty scale weight registered under chapter 46.16, 46.87, or 46.88 RCW shall be licensed for not less than one hundred fifty percent of its empty weight unless the amount would be in excess of the legal limits prescribed for such a vehicle in RCW 46.44.041 or 46.44.042, in which event the vehicle shall be licensed for the maximum weight authorized for such a vehicle or unless the vehicle is used only for the purpose of transporting any well drilling machine, air compressor, rock crusher, conveyor, hoist, donkey engine, cook house, tool house, bunk house, or similar machine or structure attached to or made a part of such vehicle. The following provisions apply when increasing gross or combined gross weight for a vehicle licensed under this section: (a) The new license fee will be one-twelfth of the fee listed above for the new gross weight, multiplied by the number of months remaining in the period for which licensing fees have been paid, including the month in which the new gross weight is effective. (b) Upon surrender of the current certificate of registration or cab card, the new licensing fees due shall be reduced by the amount of the licensing fees previously paid for the same period for which new fees are being charged. (2) The proceeds from the fees collected under subsection (1) of this section shall be distributed in accordance with RCW 46.68.035. [2003 c 361 § 201; 2003 c 1 § 3 (Initiative Measure No. 776, approved November 5, 2002); 1994 c 262 § 8; 1993 sp.s. c 23 § 60. Prior: 1993 c 123 § 5; 1993 c 102 § 1; 1990 c 42 § 105; 1989 c 156 § 1; prior: 1987 1st ex.s. c 9 § 4; 1987 c 244 § 3; 1986 c 18 § 4; 1985 c 380 § 15; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 1; 1969 ex.s. c 281 § 54; 1967 ex.s. c 118 § 1; 1967 ex.s. c 83 § 56; 1961 ex.s. c 7 § 11; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.070; prior: 1957 c 273 § 1; 1955 c 363 § 2; prior: 1951 c 269 § 9; 1950 ex.s. c 15 § 1, part; 1939 c 182 § 3, part; 1937 c 188 § 17, part; 1931 c 140 § 1, part; 1921 c 96 § 15, part; 1919 c 46 § 1, part; 1917 c 155 § 10, part; 1915 c 142 § 15, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 6312-17, part; RRS § 6326, part.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2003 c 1 § 3 (Initiative Measure No. 776) and by 2003 c 361 § 201, 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). Application -- 2003 c 361 § 201: "Section 201 of this act is effective with registrations that are due or will become due August 1, 2003, and thereafter." [2003 c 361 § 704.] Findings--Part headings not law--Severability -- 2003 c 361: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. Effective dates -- 2003 c 361: See note following RCW 82.08.020. Construction -- Intent -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): See notes following RCW 46.16.0621. Severability -- Savings -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): See note following RCW 81.104.160. Effective date -- 1994 c 262 §§ 8, 28: "Sections 8 and 28 of this act take effect July 1, 1994." [1994 c 262 § 29.] Effective date of 1993 c 102 and c 123 -- 1993 sp.s. c 23: "Chapter 102, Laws of 1993 and chapter 123, Laws of 1993 each take effect January 1, 1994." [1993 sp.s. c 23 § 66.] Effective dates -- 1993 sp.s. c 23: See note following RCW 43.89.010. Purpose -- Headings -- Severability -- Effective dates -- Application -- Implementation -- 1990 c 42: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. Application -- 1989 c 156: "This act first applies to the renewal of vehicle registrations that have a December 1990 or later expiration date and all initial vehicle registrations that are effective on or after January 1, 1990." [1989 c 156 § 5.] Severability -- Effective date -- 1987 1st ex.s. c 9: See notes following RCW 46.29.050. Severability -- 1985 c 380: See RCW 46.87.900. Effective dates -- 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64: "Sections 1, 2, and 5 through 24 of this 1976 amendatory act shall take effect on July 1, 1976, and sections 3 and 4 of this 1976 amendatory act shall take effect on January 1, 1977. All current and outstanding valid licenses and permits held by licensees on July 1, 1976, shall remain valid until their expiration dates, but renewals and original applications made after July 1, 1976, shall be governed by the law in effect at the time such renewal or application is made." [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 25.] Severability -- 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64: "If any provision of this 1976 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." [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 26.] Effective date -- 1969 ex.s. c 281: See note following RCW 46.88.010. Severability -- Effective dates -- 1967 ex.s. c 83: See RCW 47.26.900 and 47.26.910. RCW 46.16 License fee on trucks, buses, and for hire vehicles based on gross weight. (Effective January 1, 2006.) (1) In lieu of all other vehicle licensing fees, unless specifically exempt, and in addition to the mileage fees prescribed for buses and stages in RCW 46.16.125, there shall be paid and collected annually for each truck, motor truck, truck tractor, road tractor, tractor, bus, auto stage, or for hire vehicle with seating capacity of more than six, based upon the declared combined gross weight or declared gross weight under chapter 46.44 RCW, the following licensing fees by weight: WEIGHT SCHEDULE A SCHEDULE B 4,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 40.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 40.00 6,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 50.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 50.00 8,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 60.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 60.00 10,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 62.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 62.00 12,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79.00 14,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 90.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 90.00 16,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 102.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 102.00 18,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 154.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 154.00 20,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 171.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 171.00 22,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 185.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 185.00 24,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 200.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 200.00 26,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 211.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 211.00 28,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 249.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 249.00 30,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 287.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 287.00 32,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 346.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 346.00 34,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 368.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 368.00 36,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 399.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 399.00 38,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 438.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 438.00 40,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 501.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 501.00 42,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 521.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 611.00 44,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 532.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 622.00 46,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 572.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 662.00 48,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 596.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 686.00 50,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 647.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 737.00 52,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 680.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 770.00 54,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 734.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 824.00 56,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 775.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 865.00 58,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 806.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 896.00 60,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 859.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 949.00 62,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 921.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,011.00 64,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 941.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,031.00 66,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,048.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,138.00 68,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,093.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,183.00 70,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,177.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,267.00 72,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,259.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,349.00 74,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,368.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,458.00 76,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,478.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,568.00 78,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,614.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,704.00 80,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,742.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,832.00 82,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,863.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,953.00 84,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,983.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,073.00 86,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,104.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,194.00 88,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,225.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,315.00 90,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,346.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,436.00 92,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,466.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,556.00 94,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,587.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,677.00 96,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,708.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,798.00 98,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,829.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,919.00 100,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,949.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,039.00 102,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,070.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,160.00 104,000 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,191.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,281.00 105,500 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,312.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,402.00 Schedule A applies to vehicles either used exclusively for hauling logs or that do not tow trailers. Schedule B applies to vehicles that tow trailers and are not covered under Schedule A. Every truck, motor truck, truck tractor, and tractor exceeding 6,000 pounds empty scale weight registered under chapter 46.16, 46.87, or 46.88 RCW shall be licensed for not less than one hundred fifty percent of its empty weight unless the amount would be in excess of the legal limits prescribed for such a vehicle in RCW 46.44.041 or 46.44.042, in which event the vehicle shall be licensed for the maximum weight authorized for such a vehicle or unless the vehicle is used only for the purpose of transporting any well drilling machine, air compressor, rock crusher, conveyor, hoist, donkey engine, cook house, tool house, bunk house, or similar machine or structure attached to or made a part of such vehicle. The following provisions apply when increasing gross or combined gross weight for a vehicle licensed under this section: (a) The new license fee will be one-twelfth of the fee listed above for the new gross weight, multiplied by the number of months remaining in the period for which licensing fees have been paid, including the month in which the new gross weight is effective. (b) Upon surrender of the current certificate of registration or cab card, the new licensing fees due shall be reduced by the amount of the licensing fees previously paid for the same period for which new fees are being charged. (2) The proceeds from the fees collected under subsection (1) of this section shall be distributed in accordance with RCW 46.68.035. (3) In lieu of the gross weight fee under subsection (1) of this section, farm vehicles may be licensed upon payment of the fee in effect under subsection (1) of this section on May 1, 2005. In order to qualify for the reduced fee under this subsection, the farm vehicle must be exempt from property taxes in accordance with RCW 84.36.630. The applicant must submit copies of the forms required under RCW 84.36.630. The application for the reduced fee under this subsection shall require the applicant to attest that the vehicle shall be used primarily for farming purposes. The department shall provide licensing agents and subagents with a schedule of the appropriate licensing fees for farm vehicles. [2005 c 314 § 204. Prior: 2003 c 361 § 201; 2003 c 1 § 3 (Initiative Measure No. 776, approved November 5, 2002); 1994 c 262 § 8; 1993 sp.s. c 23 § 60; prior: 1993 c 123 § 5; 1993 c 102 § 1; 1990 c 42 § 105; 1989 c 156 § 1; prior: 1987 1st ex.s. c 9 § 4; 1987 c 244 § 3; 1986 c 18 § 4; 1985 c 380 § 15; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 1; 1969 ex.s. c 281 § 54; 1967 ex.s. c 118 § 1; 1967 ex.s. c 83 § 56; 1961 ex.s. c 7 § 11; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.070; prior: 1957 c 273 § 1; 1955 c 363 § 2; prior: 1951 c 269 § 9; 1950 ex.s. c 15 § 1, part; 1939 c 182 § 3, part; 1937 c 188 § 17, part; 1931 c 140 § 1, part; 1921 c 96 § 15, part; 1919 c 46 § 1, part; 1917 c 155 § 10, part; 1915 c 142 § 15, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 6312-17, part; RRS § 6326, part.] Notes: Effective dates -- 2005 c 314 §§ 110 and 201-206: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Application -- 2005 c 314 §§ 201-206, 301, and 302: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Part headings not law -- 2005 c 314: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Application -- 2003 c 361 § 201: "Section 201 of this act is effective with registrations that are due or will become due August 1, 2003, and thereafter." [2003 c 361 § 704.] Findings--Part headings not law--Severability -- 2003 c 361: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. Effective dates -- 2003 c 361: See note following RCW 82.08.020. Construction -- Intent -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): See notes following RCW 46.16.0621. Severability -- Savings -- 2003 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 776): See note following RCW 81.104.160. Effective date -- 1994 c 262 §§ 8, 28: "Sections 8 and 28 of this act take effect July 1, 1994." [1994 c 262 § 29.] Effective date of 1993 c 102 and c 123 -- 1993 sp.s. c 23: "Chapter 102, Laws of 1993 and chapter 123, Laws of 1993 each take effect January 1, 1994." [1993 sp.s. c 23 § 66.] Effective dates -- 1993 sp.s. c 23: See note following RCW 43.89.010. Purpose -- Headings -- Severability -- Effective dates -- Application -- Implementation -- 1990 c 42: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. Application -- 1989 c 156: "This act first applies to the renewal of vehicle registrations that have a December 1990 or later expiration date and all initial vehicle registrations that are effective on or after January 1, 1990." [1989 c 156 § 5.] Severability -- Effective date -- 1987 1st ex.s. c 9: See notes following RCW 46.29.050. Severability -- 1985 c 380: See RCW 46.87.900. Effective dates -- 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64: "Sections 1, 2, and 5 through 24 of this 1976 amendatory act shall take effect on July 1, 1976, and sections 3 and 4 of this 1976 amendatory act shall take effect on January 1, 1977. All current and outstanding valid licenses and permits held by licensees on July 1, 1976, shall remain valid until their expiration dates, but renewals and original applications made after July 1, 1976, shall be governed by the law in effect at the time such renewal or application is made." [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 25.] Severability -- 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64: "If any provision of this 1976 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." [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 26.] Effective date -- 1969 ex.s. c 281: See note following RCW 46.88.010. Severability -- Effective dates -- 1967 ex.s. c 83: See RCW 47.26.900 and 47.26.910. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.071 Additional fees. (1) In addition to the fees set forth in RCW 46.16.070, there shall be paid and collected annually upon registration, a fee of one dollar for each truck, motor truck, truck tractor, road tractor, tractor, bus, auto stage, or for hire vehicle with seating capacity of more than six, notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 46.16.070. (2) In addition to the fees set forth in RCW 46.16.085, there shall be paid and collected annually upon registration, a fee of one dollar for each trailer, semitrailer, and pole trailer, notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 46.16.085. (3) The proceeds from the fees collected under subsections (1) and (2) of this section shall be deposited into the highway safety fund, except that for each vehicle registered by a county auditor or agent to a county auditor under RCW 46.01.140, the proceeds shall be credited to the current county expense fund. [1996 c 315 § 4.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1996 c 315 §§ 1, 4, 5: See note following RCW 46.01.140. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.073 Federal heavy vehicle use tax. The department may refuse registration of a vehicle if the applicant has failed to furnish proof, acceptable to the department, that the federal heavy vehicle use tax imposed by section 4481 of the internal revenue code of 1954 has been paid. The department may adopt rules as deemed necessary to administer this section. [1985 c 79 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.079 Fixed load motor vehicle equipped for lifting or towing — Capacity fee in addition to and in lieu. The licensee of any fixed load motor vehicle equipped for lifting or towing any disabled, impounded, or abandoned vehicle or part thereof, may pay a capacity fee of twenty-five dollars in addition to all other fees required for the annual licensing of motor vehicles in lieu of the licensing fees provided in RCW 46.16.070. [1986 c 18 § 5; 1975 c 25 § 16; 1963 c 18 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.085 Commercial trailers, pole trailers — Fee in lieu. In lieu of all other licensing fees, an annual license fee of thirty-six dollars shall be collected in addition to the excise tax prescribed in chapter 82.44 RCW for: (1) Each trailer and semitrailer not subject to the license fee under *RCW 46.16.065 or the capacity fees under **RCW 46.16.080; (2) every pole trailer. The proceeds from this fee shall be distributed in accordance with RCW 46.68.035. This section does not pertain to travel trailers or personal use trailers that are not used for commercial purposes or owned by commercial enterprises. [1991 c 163 § 3; 1989 c 156 § 2; 1987 c 244 § 4; 1986 c 18 § 8; 1985 c 380 § 16.] Notes: Reviser's note: *(1) RCW 46.16.065 was repealed by 2002 c 352 § 28. **(2) RCW 46.16.080 was repealed by 1994 c 262 § 28, effective July 1, 1994. Application -- 1989 c 156: See note following RCW 46.16.070. Severability -- 1985 c 380: See RCW 46.87.900. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.086 Single-axle trailers — Fee in lieu. (Effective January 1, 2006.) In lieu of the license tab fees provided in RCW 46.16.0621, private use single-axle trailers of two thousand pounds scale weight or less may be licensed upon the payment of a license fee in the sum of fifteen dollars, but only if the trailer is operated upon public highways. The license fee must be collected annually for each registration year or fraction of a registration year. This reduced license fee applies only to trailers operated for personal use of the owners, and not trailers held for rental to the public or used in any commercial or business endeavor. The proceeds from the fees collected under this section shall be distributed in accordance with RCW 46.68.035. [2005 c 314 § 203.] Notes: Effective dates -- 2005 c 314 §§ 110 and 201-206: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Application -- 2005 c 314 §§ 201-206, 301, and 302: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Part headings not law -- 2005 c 314: See note following RCW 46.17.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.088 Transfer of license plates — Penalty. Except as provided in RCW 46.16.290, the transfer of license plates issued pursuant to this chapter between two or more vehicles is a traffic infraction subject to a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars. Any law enforcement agency that determines that a license plate has been transferred between two or more vehicles shall confiscate the license plates and return them to the department for nullification along with full details of the reasons for confiscation. Each vehicle identified in the transfer will be issued a new license plate upon application by the owner or owners thereof and payment of the full fees and taxes. [1986 c 18 § 9; 1985 c 380 § 17.] Notes: Severability -- 1985 c 380: See RCW 46.87.900. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.090 Gross weight fees on farm vehicles — Penalty. Motor trucks, truck tractors, and tractors may be specially licensed based on the declared gross weight thereof for the various amounts set forth in the schedule provided in RCW 46.16.070 less twenty-three dollars; divide the difference by two and add twenty-three dollars, when such vehicles are owned and operated by farmers, but only if the following condition or conditions exist: (1) When such vehicles are to be used for the transportation of the farmer's own farm, orchard, or dairy products, or the farmer's own private sector cultured aquatic products as defined in RCW 15.85.020, from point of production to market or warehouse, and of supplies to be used on the farmer's farm. Fish other than those that are such private sector cultured aquatic products and forestry products are not considered as farm products; and/or (2) When such vehicles are to be used for the infrequent or seasonal transportation by one farmer for another farmer in the farmer's neighborhood of products of the farm, orchard, dairy, or aquatic farm owned by the other farmer from point of production to market or warehouse, or supplies to be used on the other farm, but only if transportation for another farmer is for compensation other than money. Farmers shall be permitted an allowance of an additional eight thousand pounds, within the legal limits, on such vehicles, when used in the transportation of the farmer's own farm machinery between the farmer's own farm or farms and for a distance of not more than thirty-five miles from the farmer's farm or farms. The department shall prepare a special form of application to be used by farmers applying for licenses under this section, which form shall contain a statement to the effect that the vehicle concerned will be used subject to the limitations of this section. The department shall prepare special insignia which shall be placed upon all such vehicles to indicate that the vehicle is specially licensed, or may, in its discretion, substitute a special license plate for such vehicle for such designation. Operation of such a specially licensed vehicle in transportation upon public highways in violation of the limitations of this section is a traffic infraction. [1989 c 156 § 3; 1986 c 18 § 10. Prior: 1985 c 457 § 16; 1985 c 380 § 18; 1979 ex.s. c 136 § 45; 1977 c 25 § 1; 1969 ex.s. c 169 § 1; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.090; prior: 1957 c 273 § 13; 1955 c 363 § 6; prior: 1953 c 227 § 1; 1951 c 269 § 12; 1950 ex.s. c 15 § 1, part; 1949 c 220 § 10, part; 1947 c 200 § 15, part; 1941 c 224 § 1, part; 1939 c 182 § 3, part; 1937 c 188 § 17, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 6312-17, part; 1931 c 140 § 1, part; 1921 c 96 § 15, part; 1919 c 46 § 1, part; 1917 c 155 § 10, part; 1915 c 142 § 15, part; RRS § 6326, part.] Notes: Application -- 1989 c 156: See note following RCW 46.16.070. Severability -- 1985 c 380: See RCW 46.87.900. Effective date -- Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010. Unprocessed agricultural products, license for transport: RCW 20.01.120. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.111 Gross weight, how computed. The gross weight in the case of any motor truck, tractor, or truck tractor shall be the scale weight of the motor truck, tractor, or truck tractor, plus the scale weight of any trailer, semitrailer, converter gear, or pole trailer to be towed thereby, to which shall be added the weight of the maximum load to be carried thereon or towed thereby as set by the licensee in the application if it does not exceed the weight limitations prescribed by chapter 46.44 RCW. If the sum of the scale weight and maximum load of the trailer is not greater than four thousand pounds, that sum shall not be computed as part of the gross weight of any motor truck, tractor, or truck tractor. Where the trailer is a utility trailer, travel trailer, horse trailer, or boat trailer, for the personal use of the owner of the truck, tractor, or truck tractor, and not for sale or commercial purposes, the gross weight of such trailer and its load shall not be computed as part of the gross weight of any motor truck, tractor, or truck tractor. The weight of any camper is exempt from the determination of gross weight in the computation of any licensing fees required under RCW 46.16.070. The gross weight in the case of any bus, auto stage, or for hire vehicle, except taxicabs, with a seating capacity over six, shall be the scale weight of each bus, auto stage, and for hire vehicle plus the seating capacity, including the operator's seat, computed at one hundred and fifty pounds per seat. If the resultant gross weight, according to this section, is not listed in RCW 46.16.070, it shall be increased to the next higher gross weight so listed pursuant to chapter 46.44 RCW. [1987 c 244 § 5; 1986 c 18 § 11; 1971 ex.s. c 231 § 1; 1969 ex.s. c 170 § 6; 1967 ex.s. c 83 § 57.] Notes: Effective date -- 1971 c 231: See note following RCW 46.01.130. Severability -- Effective dates -- 1967 ex.s. c 83: See RCW 47.26.900 and 47.26.910. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.121 Seating capacity fees on stages, for hire vehicles. In addition to other fees for the licensing of vehicles, there shall be paid and collected annually, for each auto stage and for hire vehicle, except taxicabs, with a seating capacity of six or less the sum of fifteen dollars. [1967 ex.s. c 83 § 58.] Notes: Severability -- Effective dates -- 1967 ex.s. c 83: See RCW 47.26.900 and 47.26.910. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.125 Mileage fees on stages — Penalty. In addition to the fees required by RCW 46.16.070, operators of auto stages with seating capacity over six shall pay, at the time they file gross earning returns with the utilities and transportation commission, the sum of fifteen cents for each one hundred vehicle miles operated by each auto stage over the public highways of this state. However, in the case of each auto stage propelled by steam, electricity, natural gas, diesel oil, butane, or propane, the payment required in this section is twenty cents per one hundred miles of such operation. The commission shall transmit all sums so collected to the state treasurer, who shall deposit the same in the motor vehicle fund. Any person failing to make any payment required by this section is subject to a penalty of one hundred percent of the payment due in this section, in addition to any penalty provided for failure to submit a report. Any penalties so collected shall be credited to the public service revolving fund. [1997 c 215 § 2; 1967 ex.s. c 83 § 60; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.125. Prior: 1951 c 269 § 14.] Notes: Severability -- Effective dates -- 1967 ex.s. c 83: See RCW 47.26.900 and 47.26.910. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.135 Monthly license fee — Penalty. The annual vehicle licensing fees as provided in RCW 46.16.070 for any motor vehicle or combination of vehicles having a declared gross weight in excess of twelve thousand pounds may be paid for any full registration month or months at one-twelfth of the usual annual fee plus two dollars, this sum to be multiplied by the number of full months for which the fees are paid if for less than a full year. An additional fee of two dollars shall be collected each time a license fee is paid. Operation of a vehicle licensed under the provisions of this section by any person upon the public highways after the expiration of the monthly license is a traffic infraction, and in addition the person shall be required to pay a license fee for the vehicle involved covering an entire registration year's operation, less the fees for any registration month or months of the registration year already paid. If, within five days, no license fee for a full registration year has been paid as required aforesaid, the Washington state patrol, county sheriff, or city police shall impound such vehicle in such manner as may be directed for such cases by the chief of the Washington state patrol, until such requirement is met. [1986 c 18 § 12; 1985 c 380 § 19; 1979 ex.s. c 136 § 46; 1979 c 134 § 1; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 3; 1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 6; 1969 ex.s. c 170 § 7; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.135. Prior: 1951 c 269 § 16.] Notes: Severability -- 1985 c 380: See RCW 46.87.900. Effective date -- Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010. Effective dates -- Severability -- 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64: See notes following RCW 46.16.070. Effective date -- Severability -- 1975 1st ex.s. c 118: See notes following RCW 46.16.006. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.140 Overloading licensed capacity — Additional license — Penalties — Exceptions. It is a traffic infraction for any person to operate, or cause, permit, or suffer to be operated upon a public highway of this state any bus, auto stage, motor truck, truck tractor, or tractor, with passengers, or with a maximum gross weight, in excess of that for which the motor vehicle or combination is licensed. Any person who operates or causes to be operated upon a public highway of this state any motor truck, truck tractor, or tractor with a maximum gross weight in excess of the maximum gross weight for which the vehicle is licensed shall be deemed to have set a new maximum gross weight and shall, in addition to any penalties otherwise provided, be required to purchase a new license covering the new maximum gross weight, and any failure to secure such new license is a traffic infraction. No such person may be permitted or required to purchase the new license for a gross weight or combined gross weight which would exceed the maximum gross weight or combined gross weight allowed by law. This section does not apply to for hire vehicles, buses, or auto stages operating principally within cities and towns. [1986 c 18 § 13; 1979 ex.s. c 136 § 47; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.140. Prior: 1955 c 384 § 16; 1951 c 269 § 18; 1937 c 188 § 25, part; RRS § 6312-25, part.] Notes: Effective date -- Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.145 Overloading licensed capacity — Penalties. Any person violating any of the provisions of RCW 46.16.140 shall, upon a first offense, pay a penalty of not less than twenty-five dollars nor more than fifty dollars; upon a second offense pay a penalty of not less than fifty dollars nor more than one hundred dollars, and in addition the court may suspend the certificate of license registration of the vehicle for not more than thirty days; upon a third and subsequent offense pay a penalty of not less than one hundred dollars nor more than two hundred dollars, and in addition the court shall suspend the certificate of license registration of the vehicle for not less than thirty days nor more than ninety days. Upon ordering the suspension of any certificate of license registration, the court or judge shall forthwith secure such certificate and mail it to the director. [1979 ex.s. c 136 § 48; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 5; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.145. Prior: 1951 c 269 § 19; 1937 c 188 § 25, part; RRS § 6312-25, part.] Notes:Rules of court: Monetary penalty schedule -- IRLJ 6.2. Effective date -- Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010. Effective dates -- Severability -- 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64: See notes following RCW 46.16.070. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.150 School buses exempt from load and seat capacity fees. No provision of the law of this state shall be construed to require for hire vehicle license or adult seating capacity fees, either directly or indirectly for the transportation of school children or teachers, or both, to and from school and other school activities, or either, whether the same be done in motor vehicles owned, leased, rented or used by the school authority or upon contract to furnish such transportation: PROVIDED, That this section shall apply to vehicles used exclusively for the purpose set forth and in the event that any vehicle so used is also used for any other purpose, such vehicle shall be appropriately licensed for such other purpose, as required by this chapter. [1961 c 12 § 46.16.150. Prior: 1937 c 188 § 22; RRS § 6312-22.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.160 Vehicle trip permits — Restrictions and requirements — Fees and taxes — Penalty — Rules. (1) The owner of a vehicle which under reciprocal relations with another jurisdiction would be required to obtain a license registration in this state or an unlicensed vehicle which would be required to obtain a license registration for operation on public highways of this state may, as an alternative to such license registration, secure and operate such vehicle under authority of a trip permit issued by this state in lieu of a Washington certificate of license registration, and licensed gross weight if applicable. The licensed gross weight may not exceed eighty thousand pounds for a combination of vehicles nor forty thousand pounds for a single unit vehicle with three or more axles. Trip permits are required for movement of mobile homes or park model trailers and may only be issued if property taxes are paid in full. For the purpose of this section, a vehicle is considered unlicensed if the licensed gross weight currently in effect for the vehicle or combination of vehicles is not adequate for the load being carried. Vehicles registered under RCW 46.16.135 shall not be operated under authority of trip permits in lieu of further registration within the same registration year. (2) Each trip permit shall authorize the operation of a single vehicle at the maximum legal weight limit for such vehicle for a period of three consecutive days commencing with the day of first use. No more than three such permits may be used for any one vehicle in any period of thirty consecutive days, except that in the case of a recreational vehicle as defined in RCW 43.22.335, no more than two trip permits may be used for any one vehicle in a one-year period. Every permit shall identify, as the department may require, the vehicle for which it is issued and shall be completed in its entirety and signed by the operator before operation of the vehicle on the public highways of this state. Correction of data on the permit such as dates, license number, or vehicle identification number invalidates the permit. The trip permit shall be displayed on the vehicle to which it is issued as prescribed by the department. (3) Vehicles operating under authority of trip permits are subject to all laws, rules, and regulations affecting the operation of like vehicles in this state. (4) Prorate operators operating commercial vehicles on trip permits in Washington shall retain the customer copy of such permit for four years. (5) Trip permits may be obtained from field offices of the department of transportation, Washington state patrol, department of licensing, or other agents appointed by the department. The fee for each trip permit is fifteen dollars. For each permit issued, the fee includes a filing fee as provided by RCW 46.01.140 and an excise tax of one dollar. The remaining portion of the trip permit fee must be deposited to the credit of the motor vehicle fund as an administrative fee. If the filing fee amount of three dollars as prescribed in RCW 46.01.140 is increased or decreased after July 1, 2002, the administrative fee must be increased or decreased by the same amount so that the total trip permit would be adjusted equally to compensate. These fees and taxes are in lieu of all other vehicle license fees and taxes. No exchange, credits, or refunds may be given for trip permits after they have been purchased. (6) The department may appoint county auditors or businesses as agents for the purpose of selling trip permits to the public. County auditors or businesses so appointed may retain the filing fee collected for each trip permit to defray expenses incurred in handling and selling the permits. (7) A violation of or a failure to comply with any provision of this section is a gross misdemeanor. (8) The department of licensing may adopt rules as it deems necessary to administer this section. (9) A surcharge of five dollars is imposed on the issuance of trip permits. The portion of the surcharge paid by motor carriers must be deposited in the motor vehicle fund for the purpose of supporting vehicle weigh stations, weigh-in-motion programs, and the commercial vehicle information systems and networks program. The remaining portion of the surcharge must be deposited in the motor vehicle fund for the purpose of supporting congestion relief programs. All other administrative fees and excise taxes collected under the provisions of this chapter shall be forwarded by the department with proper identifying detailed report to the state treasurer who shall deposit the administrative fees to the credit of the motor vehicle fund and the excise taxes to the credit of the general fund. Filing fees will be forwarded and reported to the state treasurer by the department as prescribed in RCW 46.01.140. [2002 c 352 § 8; 2002 c 168 § 5; 1999 c 270 § 1; 1996 c 184 § 2; 1993 c 102 § 2; 1987 c 244 § 6; 1981 c 318 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 22 § 5; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64 § 6; 1969 ex.s. c 170 § 8; 1961 c 306 § 1; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.160. Prior: 1957 c 273 § 3; 1955 c 384 § 17; 1949 c 174 § 1; 1947 c 176 § 1; 1937 c 188 § 24; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 6312-24.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2002 c 168 § 5 and by 2002 c 352 § 8, 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 dates -- 2002 c 352: See note following RCW 46.09.070. Effective date -- 1996 c 184: See note following RCW 46.16.010. Effective date of 1993 c 102 and c 123 -- 1993 sp.s. c 23: See note following RCW 46.16.070. Severability -- 1977 ex.s. c 22: See note following RCW 46.04.302. Effective dates -- Severability -- 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 64: See notes following RCW 46.16.070. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.162 Farm vehicle trip permits. (Effective January 1, 2006.) (1) The owner of a farm vehicle licensed under RCW 46.16.090 purchasing a monthly license under RCW 46.16.135 may, as an alternative to the first partial month of the license registration, secure and operate the vehicle under authority of a farm vehicle trip permit issued by this state. The licensed gross weight may not exceed eighty thousand pounds for a combination of vehicles nor forty thousand pounds for a single unit vehicle with three or more axles. (2) If a monthly license previously issued has expired, the owner of a farm vehicle may, as an alternative to purchasing a full monthly license, secure and operate the vehicle under authority of a farm vehicle trip permit issued by this state. The licensed gross weight may not exceed eighty thousand pounds for a combination of vehicles nor forty thousand pounds for a single unit vehicle with three or more axles. (3) Each farm vehicle trip permit shall authorize the operation of a single vehicle at the maximum legal weight limit for the vehicle for the period remaining in the first month of monthly license, commencing with the day of first use. No more than four such permits may be used for any one vehicle in any twelve-month period. Every permit shall identify, as the department may require, the vehicle for which it is issued and shall be completed in its entirety and signed by the operator before operation of the vehicle on the public highways of this state. Correction of data on the permit such as dates, license number, or vehicle identification number invalidates the permit. The farm vehicle trip permit shall be displayed on the vehicle to which it is issued as prescribed by the department. (4) Vehicles operating under authority of farm vehicle trip permits are subject to all laws, rules, and regulations affecting the operation of like vehicles in this state. (5) Farm vehicle trip permits may be obtained from the department of licensing or agents and subagents appointed by the department. The fee for each farm vehicle trip permit is six dollars and twenty-five cents. Farm vehicle trip permits sold by the department's agents or subagents are subject to fees specified in RCW 46.01.140 (4)(a), (5)(b), or (6). (6) The proceeds from farm vehicle trip permits received by the director shall be forwarded to the state treasurer to be distributed as provided in RCW 46.68.035. (7) No exchange, credits, or refunds may be given for farm vehicle trip permits after they have been purchased. (8) The department of licensing may adopt rules as it deems necessary to administer this section. [2005 c 314 § 206.] Notes: Effective dates -- 2005 c 314 §§ 110 and 201-206: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Application -- 2005 c 314 §§ 201-206, 301, and 302: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Part headings not law -- 2005 c 314: See note following RCW 46.17.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.180 Unlawful to carry passengers for hire without license. It shall be unlawful for the owner or operator of any vehicle not licensed annually for hire or as an auto stage and for which additional seating capacity fee as required by this chapter has not been paid, to carry passengers therein for hire. [1961 c 12 § 46.16.180. Prior: 1937 c 188 § 20; RRS § 6312-20.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.200 Applications to agents — Transmittal to director. Upon receipt by agents of the director, including county auditors, of original applications for vehicle license accompanied by the proper fees, such agents shall, if the applications are in proper form and accompanied by such information as may be required by the director, immediately forward them, together with the fees to the director. [1961 c 12 § 46.16.200. Prior: 1955 c 259 § 1; 1955 c 89 § 4; 1947 c 164 § 10; 1937 c 188 § 33; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-33; 1921 c 96 § 6, part; 1917 c 155 § 4, part; 1915 c 142 § 6, part; RRS § 6317, part.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.210 Original applications — Renewals — Fees — Preissuance, when. (1) Upon receipt of the application and proper fee for original vehicle license, the director shall make a recheck of the application and in the event that there is any error in the application it may be returned to the county auditor or other agent to effectively secure the correction of such error, who shall return the same corrected to the director. (2) Application for the renewal of a vehicle license shall be made to the director or his agents, including county auditors, by the registered owner on a form prescribed by the director. The application must be accompanied by the payment of such license fees and excise tax as may be required by law. Such application shall be handled in the same manner and the fees transmitted to the state treasurer in the same manner as in the case of an original application. Any such application which upon validation becomes a renewal certificate need not have entered upon it the name of the lien holder, if any, of the vehicle concerned. (3) Persons expecting to be out of the state during the normal renewal period of a vehicle license may secure renewal of such vehicle license and have license plates or tabs preissued by making application to the director or his agents upon forms prescribed by the director. The application must be accompanied by such license fees, and excise tax as may be required by law. (4) Application for the annual renewal of a vehicle license number plate to the director or the director's agents shall not be required for those vehicles owned, rented, or leased by the state of Washington, or by any county, city, town, school district, or other political subdivision of the state of Washington or a governing body of an Indian tribe located within this state and recognized as a governmental entity by the United States department of the interior. [2001 c 206 § 1; 1997 c 241 § 8; 1994 c 262 § 9; 1977 c 8 § 1. Prior: 1975 1st ex.s. c 169 § 6; 1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 8; 1969 ex.s. c 75 § 1; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.210; prior: 1957 c 273 § 5; 1955 c 89 § 2; 1953 c 252 § 3; 1947 c 164 § 11; 1937 c 188 § 34; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-34.] Notes: Effective date -- Severability -- 1975 1st ex.s. c 118: See notes following RCW 46.16.006. Rental cars: RCW 46.87.023. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.212 Notice of liability insurance requirement. The department of licensing shall notify the public of the requirements of RCW 46.30.020 through 46.30.040 at the time of new vehicle registration and when the department sends a registration renewal notice. [1989 c 353 § 10.] Notes: Severability -- Effective date -- 1989 c 353: See RCW 46.30.900 and 46.30.901. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.216 Payment of parking fines required for renewal. (1) To renew a vehicle license, an applicant shall satisfy all listed standing, stopping, and parking violations, and other infractions issued under RCW 46.63.030(1)(d) for the vehicle incurred while the vehicle was registered in the applicant's name and forwarded to the department pursuant to RCW 46.20.270(3). For the purposes of this section, "listed" standing, stopping, and parking violations, and other infractions issued under RCW 46.63.030(1)(d) include only those violations for which notice has been received from state or local agencies or courts by the department one hundred twenty days or more before the date the vehicle license expires and that are placed on the records of the department. Notice of such violations received by the department later than one hundred twenty days before that date that are not satisfied shall be considered by the department in connection with any applications for license renewal in any subsequent license year. The renewal application may be processed by the department or its agents only if the applicant: (a) Presents a preprinted renewal application showing no listed standing, stopping, or parking violations, or other infractions issued under RCW 46.63.030(1)(d), or in the absence of such presentation, the agent verifies the information that would be contained on the preprinted renewal application; or (b) If listed standing, stopping, or parking violations, or other infractions issued under RCW 46.63.030(1)(d) exist, presents proof of payment and pays a fifteen dollar surcharge. (2) The surcharge shall be allocated as follows: (a) Ten dollars shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund to be used exclusively for the administrative costs of the department of licensing; and (b) Five dollars shall be retained by the agent handling the renewal application to be used by the agent for the administration of this section. (3) If there is a change in the registered owner of the vehicle, the department shall forward the information regarding the change to the state or local charging jurisdiction and release any hold on the renewal of the vehicle license resulting from parking violations or other infractions issued under RCW 46.63.030(1)(d) incurred while the certificate of license registration was in a previous registered owner's name. (4) The department shall send to all registered owners of vehicles who have been reported to have outstanding listed parking violations or other infractions issued under RCW 46.63.030(1)(d), at the time of renewal, a statement setting out the dates and jurisdictions in which the violations occurred as well as the amounts of unpaid fines and penalties relating to them and the surcharge to be collected. [2004 c 231 § 4; 1990 2nd ex.s. c 1 § 401; 1984 c 224 § 1.] Notes: Severability -- 1990 2nd ex.s. c 1: See note following RCW 82.14.300. Severability -- 1984 c 224: "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." [1984 c 224 § 5.] Effective date -- 1984 c 224: "This act shall take effect on July 1, 1984." [1984 c 224 § 6.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.220 Time of renewal of licenses — Duration. Vehicle licenses and vehicle license number plates may be renewed for the subsequent registration year up to eighteen months before the current expiration date and must be used and displayed from the date of issue or from the day of the expiration of the preceding registration year, whichever date is later. [1997 c 241 § 9; 1991 c 339 § 20; 1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 9; 1969 ex.s. c 170 § 9; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.220. Prior: 1957 c 261 § 8; 1955 c 89 § 1; 1953 c 252 § 4; 1947 c 164 § 12; 1937 c 188 § 35; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-35; 1921 c 96 § 7, part; RRS § 6318, part; 1921 c 6 § 1, part; 1916 c 142 § 7, part.] Notes: Effective date -- Severability -- 1975 1st ex.s. c 118: See notes following RCW 46.16.006. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.225 Adjustment of vehicle registration periods to stagger renewal periods. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the department may extend or diminish vehicle license registration periods for the purpose of staggering renewal periods. Such extension or diminishment of a vehicle license registration period shall be by rule of the department adopted in accordance with the provisions of chapter 34.05 RCW. The rules may provide for the omission of any classes or classifications of vehicle from the staggered renewal system and may provide for the gradual introduction of classes or classifications of vehicles into the system. The rules shall provide for the collection of proportionately increased or decreased vehicle license registration fees and of excise or property taxes required to be paid at the time of registration. It is the intent of the legislature that there shall be neither a significant net gain nor loss of revenue to the state general fund or the motor vehicle fund as the result of implementing and maintaining a staggered vehicle registration system. [1986 c 18 § 15; 1979 c 158 § 140; 1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 2.] Notes: Effective date -- Severability -- 1975 1st ex.s. c 118: See notes following RCW 46.16.006. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.230 License plates furnished. The director shall furnish to all persons making satisfactory application for vehicle license as provided by law, two identical vehicle license number plates each containing the vehicle license number to be displayed on such vehicle as by law required: PROVIDED, That if the vehicle to be licensed is a trailer, semitrailer or motorcycle only one vehicle license number plate shall be issued for each thereof. The number and plate shall be of such size and color and shall contain such symbols indicative of the registration period for which the same is issued and of the state of Washington, as shall be determined and prescribed by the director. Any vehicle license number plate or plates issued to a dealer shall contain thereon a sufficient and satisfactory indication that such plates have been issued to a dealer in vehicles. All vehicle license number plates may be obtained by the director from the metal working plant of a state correctional facility or from any source in accordance with existing state of Washington purchasing procedures. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, the director may, in his discretion and under such rules and regulations as he may prescribe, adopt a type of vehicle license number plates whereby the same shall be used as long as legible on the vehicle for which issued, with provision for tabs or emblems to be attached thereto or elsewhere on the vehicle to signify renewals, in which event the term "vehicle license number plate" as used in any enactment shall be deemed to include in addition to such plate the tab or emblem signifying renewal except when such plate contains the designation of the current year without reference to any tab or emblem. Renewals shall be effected by the issuance and display of such tab or emblem. [1992 c 7 § 41; 1975 c 25 § 19; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.230. Prior: 1957 c 261 § 9; 1949 c 90 § 1; 1939 c 182 § 5; 1937 c 188 § 28; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 6312-28; 1921 c 96 § 12; 1921 c 6 § 2; 1919 c 59 § 7; 1917 c 155 § 8; 1915 c 142 § 12; RRS § 6323.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.233 Standard background — Periodic replacement — Retention of current plate number. (1) Except for those license plates issued under RCW 46.16.305(1) before January 1, 1987, under RCW 46.16.305(3), and to commercial vehicles with a gross weight in excess of twenty-six thousand pounds, effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on January 1, 2001, the appearance of the background of all vehicle license plates may vary in color and design but must be legible and clearly identifiable as a Washington state license plate, as designated by the department. Additionally, to ensure maximum legibility and reflectivity, the department shall periodically provide for the replacement of license plates, except for commercial vehicles with a gross weight in excess of twenty-six thousand pounds. Frequency of replacement shall be established in accordance with empirical studies documenting the longevity of the reflective materials used to make license plates. (2) Special license plate series approved by the special license plate review board created under RCW 46.16.705 and enacted by the legislature may display a symbol or artwork approved by the special license plate review board. (3) By November 1, 2003, in providing for the periodic replacement of license plates, the department shall offer to vehicle owners the option of retaining their current license plate numbers. The department shall charge a retention fee of twenty dollars if this option is exercised. Revenue generated from the retention fee must be deposited into the multimodal transportation account. [2003 c 361 § 501; 2003 c 196 § 401; 2000 c 37 § 1; 1997 c 291 § 2.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2003 c 196 § 401 and by 2003 c 361 § 501, 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). Findings--Part headings not law -- Severability -- 2003 c 361: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. Effective dates -- 2003 c 361: See note following RCW 82.08.020. Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.235 State name not abbreviated. Vehicle license number plates issued by the state of Washington commencing with the next general issuance of such plates shall be so designed as to designate the name of the state of Washington in full without abbreviation. [1965 ex.s. c 78 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.237 Reflectorized materials — Fee. All vehicle license number plates issued after January 1, 1968, or such earlier date as the director may prescribe with respect to plates issued in any county, shall be treated with fully reflectorized materials designed to increase the visibility and legibility of such plates at night. In addition to all other fees prescribed by law, there shall be paid and collected for each vehicle license number plate treated with such materials, the sum of two dollars and for each set of two plates, the sum of four dollars. However, one plate is available only to those vehicles that by law require only one plate. Such fees shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund. [2005 c 314 § 301; 1987 c 52 § 1; 1967 ex.s. c 145 § 60.] Notes: Application -- 2005 c 314 §§ 201-206, 301, and 302: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Part headings not law -- 2005 c 314: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Severability -- 1967 ex.s. c 145: See RCW 47.98.043. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.240 Attachment of plates to vehicles — Violations enumerated. The vehicle license number plates shall be attached conspicuously at the front and rear of each vehicle for which the same are issued and in such a manner that they can be plainly seen and read at all times: PROVIDED, That if only one license number plate is legally issued for any vehicle such plate shall be conspicuously attached to the rear of such vehicle. Each vehicle license number plate shall be placed or hung in a horizontal position at a distance of not less than one foot nor more than four feet from the ground and shall be kept clean so as to be plainly seen and read at all times: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That in cases where the body construction of the vehicle is such that compliance with this section is impossible, permission to deviate therefrom may be granted by the state patrol. It shall be unlawful to display upon the front or rear of any vehicle, vehicle license number plate or plates other than those furnished by the director for such vehicle or to display upon any vehicle any vehicle license number plate or plates which have been in any manner changed, altered, disfigured or have become illegible. License plate frames may be used on vehicle license number plates only if the frames do not obscure license tabs or identifying letters or numbers on the plates and the plates can be plainly seen and read at all times. It is unlawful to use any holders, frames, or any materials that in any manner change, alter, or make the vehicle license number plates illegible. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate any vehicle unless there shall be displayed thereon valid vehicle license number plates attached as herein provided. [1987 c 330 § 704; 1987 c 142 § 3; 1969 ex.s. c 170 § 10; 1967 c 32 § 18; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.240. Prior: 1947 c 89 § 1; 1937 c 188 § 36; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-36.] Notes:Rules of court: Monetary penalty schedule -- IRLJ 6.2. Reviser's note: This section was amended by 1987 c 142 § 3 and by 1987 c 330 § 704, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section pursuant to RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1). Construction -- Application of rules -- Severability -- 1987 c 330: See notes following RCW 28B.12.050. Illumination of plate: RCW 46.37.050. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.260 License registration certificate — Signature required — Carried in vehicle — Penalty — Inspection — Exception. A certificate of license registration to be valid must have endorsed thereon the signature of the registered owner (if a firm or corporation, the signature of one of its officers or other duly authorized agent) and must be carried in the vehicle for which it is issued, at all times in the manner prescribed by the department. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or have in his possession a vehicle without carrying thereon such certificate of license registration. Any person in charge of such vehicle shall, upon demand of any of the local authorities or of any police officer or of any representative of the department, permit an inspection of such certificate of license registration. This section does not apply to a vehicle for which annual renewal of its license plates is not required and which is marked in accordance with the provisions of RCW 46.08.065. [1986 c 18 § 16; 1979 ex.s. c 113 § 3; 1969 ex.s. c 170 § 11; 1967 c 32 § 19; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.260. Prior: 1955 c 384 § 18; 1937 c 188 § 8; RRS § 6312-8.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.265 Replacement certificate. If a certificate of license registration is lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed or becomes illegible, the registered owner or owners, as shown by the records of the department, shall promptly make application for and may obtain a duplicate upon tender of one dollar and twenty-five cents in addition to all other fees and upon furnishing information satisfactory to the department. The duplicate of the license registration shall contain the legend, "duplicate." A person recovering an original certificate of license registration for which a duplicate has been issued shall promptly surrender the original certificate to the department. [1997 c 241 § 6.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.270 Replacement of plates — Fee. The total replacement plate fee shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund. Upon the loss, defacement, or destruction of one or both of the vehicle license number plates issued for any vehicle where more than one plate was originally issued or where one or both have become so illegible or in such a condition as to be difficult to distinguish, or upon the owner's option, the owner of the vehicle shall make application for new vehicle license number plates upon a form furnished by the director. The application shall be filed with the director or the director's authorized agent, accompanied by the certificate of license registration of the vehicle and a fee in the amount of ten dollars per plate, whereupon the director, or the director's authorized agent, shall issue new vehicle license number plates to the applicant. It shall be accompanied by a fee of two dollars for a new motorcycle license number plate. In the event the director has issued license period tabs or a windshield emblem instead of vehicle license number plates, and upon the loss, defacement, or destruction of the tabs or windshield emblem, application shall be made on a form provided by the director and in the same manner as above described, and shall be accompanied by a fee of one dollar for each pair of tabs or for each windshield emblem, whereupon the director shall issue to the applicant a duplicate pair of tabs, year tabs, and when necessary month tabs or a windshield emblem to replace those lost, defaced, or destroyed. For vehicles owned, rented, or leased by the state of Washington or by any county, city, town, school district, or other political subdivision of the state of Washington or United States government, or owned or leased by the governing body of an Indian tribe as defined in RCW 46.16.020, a fee shall be charged for replacement of a vehicle license number plate only to the extent required by the provisions of RCW 46.16.020, 46.16.237, and 46.01.140. For vehicles owned, rented, or leased by foreign countries or international bodies to which the United States government is a signatory by treaty, the payment of any fee for the replacement of a vehicle license number plate shall not be required. [2005 c 314 § 302; 1997 c 291 § 3; 1990 c 250 § 32; 1987 c 178 § 2. Prior: 1986 c 280 § 4; 1986 c 30 § 3; 1975 1st ex.s. c 169 § 7; 1965 ex.s. c 78 § 1; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.270; prior: 1951 c 269 § 6; 1947 c 164 § 13; 1937 c 188 § 37; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-37; 1929 c 99 § 6; 1921 c 96 § 14; 1919 c 59 § 8; 1915 c 142 § 14; RRS § 6325.] Notes: Application -- 2005 c 314 §§ 201-206, 301, and 302: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Part headings not law -- 2005 c 314: See note following RCW 46.17.010. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.276 Implementing rules. The director may make and enforce rules to implement this chapter. [1986 c 30 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.280 Sale, loss, or destruction of commercial vehicle — Credit for unused fee — Change in license classification. In case of loss, destruction, sale, or transfer of any motor vehicle with a registered gross weight in excess of twelve thousand pounds and subject to the license fees under RCW 46.16.070, the registered owner thereof may, under the following conditions, obtain credit for the unused portion of the licensing fee paid for the vehicle or may transfer such credit to the new owner if desired: (1) The licensing fee paid for the motor vehicle will be reduced by one-twelfth for each calendar month and fraction thereof elapsing between the first month of the current registration year in which the motor vehicle was registered and the month the registrant surrenders the vehicle's registration certificate for the registration year to the department or an authorized agent of the department. (2) If any such credit is less than fifteen dollars, no credit may be given. (3) The credit may only be applied against the licensing fee liability due under RCW 46.16.070 for the replacement motor vehicle or if such credit was transferred to the new owner, it shall remain with the vehicle. The credit may only be used during the registration year from which it was obtained. (4) In no event is such credit subject to refund. Whenever any vehicle has been so altered as to change its license classification in such a manner that the vehicle license number plates are rendered improper, the current license plates shall be surrendered to the department. New license plates shall be issued upon application accompanied by a one dollar fee in addition to any other or different charge by reason of licensing under a new classification. Such application shall be on forms prescribed by the department and forwarded with the proper fee to the department or the office of a duly authorized agent of the department. [1987 c 244 § 7; 1986 c 18 § 17; 1967 c 32 § 20; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.280. Prior: 1947 c 164 § 14; 1937 c 188 § 38; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 6312-38.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.290 Disposition of license plates, certificate on vehicle transfer. (1) In any case of a valid sale or transfer of the ownership of any vehicle, the right to the certificates properly transferable therewith, except as provided in RCW 46.16.280, and to the vehicle license plates passes to the purchaser or transferee. It is unlawful for the holder of such certificates, except as provided in RCW 46.16.280, or vehicle license plates to fail, neglect, or refuse to endorse the certificates and deliver the vehicle license plates to the purchaser or transferee. (2)(a) If the sale or transfer is of a vehicle licensed with current standard issue license plates, the vehicle license plates may be retained and displayed upon a vehicle obtained in replacement of the vehicle so sold or transferred. If a person applies for a transfer of the plate or plates to another eligible vehicle, the plates must be transferred to a vehicle requiring the same type of plate. A transfer fee of ten dollars must be charged in addition to all other applicable fees. The transfer fees must be deposited in the motor vehicle fund. (b) If the sale or transfer is of a vehicle licensed by the state or any county, city, town, school district, or other political subdivision entitled to exemption as provided by law, or, if the vehicle is licensed with personalized plates, amateur radio operator plates, medal of honor plates, disabled person plates, disabled veteran plates, prisoner of war plates, or other special license plates issued under RCW 46.16.301 as it existed before amendment by section 5, chapter 291, Laws of 1997, the vehicle license plates therefor shall be retained and may be displayed upon a vehicle obtained in replacement of the vehicle so sold or transferred. [2004 c 223 § 3; 1997 c 291 § 4; 1986 c 18 § 18; 1983 c 27 § 2; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.290. Prior: 1937 c 188 § 39; RRS § 6312-39; 1931 c 138 § 2; 1929 c 99 § 3; 1921 c 96 § 8; 1919 c 59 § 5; 1917 c 155 § 5; 1915 c 142 § 8; RRS § 6319.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.295 Returned plates — Reuse. The department may, upon request, provide license plates that have been used and subsequently returned to the department to individuals for nonvehicular use. The department may charge a fee of up to five dollars per plate to cover costs of recovery, postage, and handling. The department may waive the fee for plates used in educational projects, and may, by rule, provide standards for the fee waiver and restrictions on the number of plates provided to any one person. [2003 c 359 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.301 Baseball stadium license plates. The department shall create, design, and issue a special baseball stadium license plate that may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for motor vehicles required to display two motor vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. The special plates shall commemorate the construction of a baseball stadium, as defined in RCW 82.14.0485. The department shall also issue to each recipient of a special baseball stadium license plate a certificate of participation in the construction of the baseball stadium. [1997 c 291 § 5; 1995 3rd sp.s. c 1 § 102; 1994 c 194 § 2; 1990 c 250 § 1.] Notes: Part headings not law -- Effective date -- 1995 3rd sp.s. c 1: See notes following RCW 82.14.0485. Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: "Sections 1 through 9, and 11 through 13 of this act shall take effect on January 1, 1991. Section 10 of this act shall take effect on July 1, 1990." [1990 c 250 § 93.] Severability -- 1990 c 250: "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." [1990 c 250 § 92.] State contribution for baseball stadium limited: RCW 82.14.0486. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.305 Special license plates — Continuance of earlier issues — Conditions for current issues. The department shall continue to issue the categories of special plates issued by the department under the sections repealed under section 12 (1) through (7), chapter 250, Laws of 1990. Special license plates issued under those repealed sections before January 1, 1991, are valid to the extent and under the conditions provided in those repealed sections. The following conditions, limitations, or requirements apply to certain special license plates issued after January 1, 1991: (1) A horseless carriage plate and a plate or plates issued for collectors' vehicles more than thirty years old, upon payment of the initial fees required by law and the additional special license plate fee established by the department, are valid for the life of the vehicle for which application is approved by the department. When a single plate is issued, it shall be displayed on the rear of the vehicle. (2) The department may issue special license plates denoting amateur radio operator status only to persons having a valid official radio operator license issued by the federal communications commission. (3) The department shall issue one set of special license plates to each resident of this state who has been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for use on a passenger vehicle registered to that person. The department shall issue the plate without the payment of licensing fees and motor vehicle excise tax. (4) The department may issue for use on only one motor vehicle owned by the qualified applicant special license plates denoting that the recipient of the plate is a survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, to persons meeting all of the following criteria: (a) Is a resident of this state; (b) Was a member of the United States Armed Forces on December 7, 1941; (c) Was on station on December 7, 1941, during the hours of 7:55 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Hawaii time at Pearl Harbor, the island of Oahu, or offshore at a distance not to exceed three miles; (d) Received an honorable discharge from the United States Armed Forces; and (e) Is certified by a Washington state chapter of the Pearl Harbor survivors association as satisfying the qualifications in (c) of this subsection. The department may issue such plates to the surviving spouse of any deceased Pearl Harbor survivor who met the requirements of this subsection. If the surviving spouse remarries, he or she shall return the special plates to the department within fifteen days and apply for regular plates. The surviving spouse must be a resident of this state. The department shall issue these plates upon payment by the applicant of all other license fees, but the department may not set or charge an additional fee for these special license plates. (5) The department shall replace, free of charge, special license plates issued under subsections (3) and (4) of this section if they are lost, stolen, damaged, defaced, or destroyed. Such plates shall remain with the persons upon transfer or other disposition of the vehicle for which they were initially issued, and may be used on another vehicle registered to the recipient in accordance with the provisions of RCW 46.16.316(1). [1997 c 291 § 6; 1997 c 241 § 10; 1990 c 250 § 2.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 1997 c 241 § 10 and by 1997 c 291 § 6, 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). Finding -- 1997 c 291: "The legislature finds that the proliferation of special license plate series has decreased the ready identification of vehicles by law enforcement, and increased the amount of computer programming conducted by the department of licensing, thereby increasing costs. Furthermore, rarely has the actual demand for special license plates met the requesters' projections. Most importantly, special plates detract from the primary purpose of license plates, that of vehicle identification." [1997 c 291 § 1.] Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.307 Collectors' vehicles — Use restrictions. A collectors' vehicle licensed under RCW 46.16.305(1) may only be used for participation in club activities, exhibitions, tours, parades, and occasional pleasure driving. [1996 c 225 § 11.] Notes: Finding -- 1996 c 225: See note following RCW 46.04.125. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.309 Special license plates — Application. Persons applying to the department for special license plates shall apply on forms obtained from the department and in accordance with RCW 46.16.040. The applicant shall provide all information as is required by the department in order to determine the applicant's eligibility for the special license plates. [1997 c 291 § 7; 1990 c 250 § 3.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30901 Professional fire fighters and paramedics plate. The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol, approved by the special license plate review board, for professional fire fighters and paramedics who are members of the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters. Upon initial application and subsequent renewals, applicants must show proof of eligibility by providing a certificate of current membership from the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon the terms and conditions established by the department. [2004 c 35 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30902 Washington State Council of Fire Fighters benevolent fund. (1) The Washington State Council of Fire Fighters benevolent fund is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the professional fire fighters and paramedics special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in RCW 46.16.313 (6) and (7), from professional fire fighters and paramedics license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Under the requirements of RCW 46.16.765, the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to receive and disseminate funds for charitable purposes on behalf of members of the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, their families, and others deemed in need. (b) For the purposes of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and operating exclusively in Washington that has received a determination of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must have been established for the express purposes of receiving and disseminating funds for charitable purposes on behalf of members of the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, their families, and others deemed in need. (c) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2004 c 35 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30903 Helping Kids Speak plate. (1) The legislature recognizes the Helping Kids Speak license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol, approved by the special license plate review board, recognizing an organization that supports programs that provide no-cost speech pathology programs to children. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. The special plates will commemorate 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 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30904 "Helping Kids Speak" account. (1) The "Helping Kids Speak" account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Helping Kids Speak" license plate, all receipts, except as provided in *RCW 46.16.313 (6) and (7), from the "Helping Kids Speak" license plate must be deposited into the account. Only the director or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from this account. The account is subject to the allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Under the requirements of RCW 46.16.765 the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization for the purpose of the organization providing free diagnostic and therapeutic services to families of children who suffer from a delay in language or speech development. (b) For the purposes of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation operating in Washington that has received a determination of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must offer free language disorder diagnostic and therapeutic services to families of children who suffer from a delay in language or speech development. (c) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements of RCW 46.16.765. [2004 c 48 § 4.] Notes: *Reviser's note: RCW 46.16.313 was amended by 2004 c 35 § 3, 2004 c 48 § 3, and 2004 c 221 § 3. The subsections relating to the "Helping Kids Speak" plates have been renumbered as subsections (8) and (9). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30905 Law enforcement memorial plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the law enforcement memorial license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board as specified in chapter 196, Laws of 2003, and was found to fully comply with all provisions of chapter 196, Laws of 2003. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol, approved by the special license plate review board, honoring law enforcement officers in Washington killed in the line of duty. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon the terms and conditions established by the department. [2004 c 221 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30906 Law enforcement memorial account. (1) The law enforcement memorial account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the law enforcement memorial special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in *RCW 46.16.313 (7) and (8), from law enforcement memorial license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Pursuant to the requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765 the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to provide support and assistance to survivors and families of law enforcement officers in Washington killed in the line of duty and to organize, finance, fund, construct, utilize, and maintain a memorial on the state capitol grounds to honor those fallen officers. (b) For the purposes of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and operating exclusively in Washington that has received a determination of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must have been established for the express purposes of providing support and assistance to the survivors and families of law enforcement officers in Washington killed in the line of duty and to organize, finance, fund, construct, utilize, and maintain a memorial on the state capitol grounds to honor those fallen officers. (c) The qualified nonprofit must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2004 c 221 § 4.] Notes: *Reviser's note: RCW 46.16.313 was amended by 2004 c 35 § 3, 2004 c 48 § 3, and 2004 c 221 § 3. The subsections relating to law enforcement memorial plates have been renumbered as subsections (10) and (11). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30907 Washington's Wildlife plate collection. (1) The legislature recognizes that the Washington's Wildlife license plate collection, to include three distinct designs including bear, deer, and elk, has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725 and was found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate collection displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, recognizing Washington's wildlife, that may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 42 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30908 Washington's Wildlife license plate collection — Definition. For the purposes of RCW 46.16.313 and 46.16.30907, the term "Washington's Wildlife license plate collection" means the collection of three separate license plate designs issued under RCW 46.16.30907. Each license plate design displays a distinct symbol or artwork recognizing the wildlife of Washington, to include bear, deer, and elk. [2005 c 42 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30909 Washington state parks and recreation commission plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the Washington state parks and recreation commission license plate application has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725 and was found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, recognizing Washington state parks as premier destinations of uncommon quality that preserve significant natural, cultural, historical, and recreational resources, that may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one and two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 44 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30910 Washington state parks and recreation commission special license plate — Definition. For the purposes of RCW 46.16.313, "Washington state parks and recreation commission special license plate" means license plates issued under RCW 46.16.30909 that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of state parks and recreation in Washington state. [2005 c 44 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30911 "Washington Lighthouses" plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the "Washington Lighthouses" license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, recognizing an organization that supports selected Washington state lighthouses and provides environmental education programs. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 48 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30912 Lighthouse environmental programs account. (1) The lighthouse environmental programs account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state had been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Washington Lighthouses" special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in RCW 46.16.313(14) (a) and (b), from "Washington Lighthouses" license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Under the requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765, the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to support selected Washington state lighthouses that are accessible to the public and staffed by volunteers; to provide environmental education programs; and to provide grants for other Washington lighthouses to assist in funding infrastructure preservation and restoration and to encourage and support interpretive programs by lighthouse docents. (b) For the purpose of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must have been established for the express purposes of supporting selected Washington state lighthouses that are open to the public and staffed by volunteers; providing environmental education programs; and encouraging and supporting interpretive programs by lighthouse docents. (c) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2005 c 48 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30913 "Keep Kids Safe" plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the "Keep Kids Safe" license plate has been reviewed and approved by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying artwork, approved by the special license plate review board, recognizing efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 53 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30914 "We love our pets" plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the "we love our pets" license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board, recognizing an organization that assists local member agencies of the federation of animal welfare and control agencies to promote and perform spay/neuter surgery on Washington state pets, in order to reduce pet overpopulation. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 71 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30915 We love our pets account. (1) The we love our pets account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the we love our pets special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in RCW 46.16.313(16) (a) and (b), from we love our pets license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Pursuant to the requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765, the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to support and to enable the Washington federation of animal welfare and control agencies to promote and perform spay/neuter surgery of Washington state pets, in order to reduce pet overpopulation. (b) For the purposes of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and operating exclusively in Washington that has received a determination of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must have been established for the express purpose of assisting local member agencies of the federation of animal welfare and control agencies to promote and perform spay/neuter surgery on Washington state pets, in order to reduce pet overpopulation. (c) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2005 c 71 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30916 Gonzaga University alumni association plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the Gonzaga University alumni association license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board, recognizing the Gonzaga University alumni association. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 85 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30917 Gonzaga University alumni association account. (1) The Gonzaga University alumni association account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Gonzaga University alumni association special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in RCW 46.16.313(17) (a) and (b), from Gonzaga University alumni association license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Pursuant to the requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765, the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to provide scholarship funds to needy and qualified students attending or planning to attend Gonzaga University. (b) For the purposes of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and operating exclusively in Washington that has received a determination of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must have been established for the express purpose of providing student scholarships to Gonzaga University. (c) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2005 c 85 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30918 "Washington's National Park Fund" plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the "Washington's National Park Fund" license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, recognizing Washington's National Park Fund, that may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 177 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30919 "Washington's National Park Fund" account. (1) The "Washington's National Park Fund" account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state had been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Washington's National Park Fund" special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in RCW 46.16.313 (18) and (19), from "Washington's National Park Fund" license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Under the requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765, the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to build awareness of Washington's national parks and to support priority park programs and projects in Washington's national parks, such as enhancing visitor experience, promoting volunteerism, engaging communities, and providing educational opportunities related to Washington's national parks. (b) For the purpose of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must have been established for the express purposes of building awareness of Washington's national parks, enhancing visitor experience, promoting volunteerism, engaging communities, and providing educational opportunities related to Washington's national parks. (c) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2005 c 177 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30920 Armed forces plate collection. (1) The legislature recognizes that the armed forces license plate collection has been reviewed and approved by the special license plate review board. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate collection, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, recognizing the contribution of veterans, active duty military personnel, reservists, and members of the Washington national guard. The collection includes six separate designs, each containing a symbol representing a different branch of the armed forces to include army, navy, air force, marine corps, coast guard, and Washington national guard. (3) Armed forces special license plates may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one and two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. (4) Upon request, the department must make available to the purchaser, at no additional cost, a decal indicating the purchaser's military status. The department must work with the department of veterans affairs to establish a list of the decals to be made available. The list of available decals must include, but is not limited to, "veteran," "disabled veteran," "reservist," "retiree," or "active duty." The department may specify where the decal may be placed on the license plate. Decals are required to be made available only for standard six-inch by twelve-inch license plates. (5) Armed forces license plates and decals are available only to veterans as defined in RCW 41.04.007, active duty military personnel, reservists, members of the Washington national guard, and the spouses of deceased veterans. Upon initial application, any purchaser requesting an armed forces license plate and decal will be required to show proof of eligibility by providing: A DD-214 or discharge papers if a veteran; a military identification or retired military identification card; or a declaration of fact attesting to the purchaser's eligibility as required under this section. (6) The department of veterans affairs must enter into an agreement with the department to reimburse the department for the costs associated with providing military status decals described in subsection (4) of this section. (7) Armed forces license plates are not available free of charge to disabled veterans, former prisoners of war, or spouses of deceased former prisoners of war under the privileges defined in RCW 73.04.110 and 73.04.115. [2005 c 216 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30921 Armed forces license plate collection — Definition — No free issuance. (1) "Armed forces license plate collection" means the collection of six separate license plate designs issued under RCW 46.16.30920. Each license plate design displays a symbol representing one of the five branches of the armed forces, and one representing the Washington national guard. (2) Armed forces license plates are not available free of charge to disabled veterans, former prisoners of war, or spouses of deceased former prisoners of war under the privileges defined in RCW 73.04.110 and 73.04.115. [2005 c 216 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30922 "Ski & Ride Washington" plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the "Ski & Ride Washington" license plate has been reviewed and approved by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, recognizing the Washington snowsports industry, that may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 220 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30923 "Ski & Ride Washington" account. (1) The "Ski & Ride Washington" account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state had been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Ski Washington" special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in RCW 46.16.313(21), from "Ski & Ride Washington" license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Under the requirements of RCW 46.16.765, the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization for the purpose of promoting winter snowsports (i.e. skiing and snowboarding) and related programs such as ski and ride safety programs, underprivileged youth "ski and ride" programs, and active, healthy lifestyle programs. (b) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2005 c 220 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30924 Wild On Washington plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the Wild On Washington license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725 and was found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, referred to as "Wild On Washington license plates," that may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 224 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30925 Wild On Washington license plates — Definition. For the purposes of RCW 46.16.313 and 46.16.30924, the term "Wild On Washington license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.16.30924 that display a symbol or artwork symbolizing wildlife viewing in Washington state. [2005 c 224 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30926 Endangered Wildlife plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the Endangered Wildlife license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725 and was found to fully comply with all provisions of RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, referred to as "Endangered Wildlife license plates," that may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. [2005 c 225 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30927 Endangered Wildlife license plates — Definition. For the purposes of RCW 46.16.313 and 46.16.30926, the term "Endangered Wildlife license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.16.30926 that display a symbol or artwork symbolizing endangered wildlife in Washington state. [2005 c 225 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30928 "Share the Road" plate. (1) The legislature recognizes that the "Share the Road" license plate has been reviewed by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.725, and found to fully comply with RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775. (2) The department shall issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork, approved by the special license plate review board and the legislature, recognizing an organization that promotes bicycle safety and awareness education. The special license plate may be used in lieu of regular or personalized license plates for vehicles required to display one or two vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. The special plates will commemorate the life of Cooper Jones. [2005 c 426 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.30929 "Share the Road" account. (1) The "Share the Road" account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Upon the department's determination that the state had been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Share the Road" special license plate, all receipts, except as provided in RCW 46.16.313(24) (a) and (b), from "Share the Road" license plates must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department of licensing or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. (2) Funds in the account must be disbursed subject to the following conditions and limitations: (a) Under the requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765, the department must contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to promote bicycle safety and awareness education in communities throughout Washington. (b) For the purpose of this section, a "qualified nonprofit organization" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and of tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code. The organization must promote bicycle safety and awareness education in communities throughout Washington. (c) The qualified nonprofit organization must meet all requirements set out in RCW 46.16.765. [2005 c 426 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.313 Special license plates — Fees. (1) The department may establish a fee of no more than forty dollars for each type of special license plates issued under RCW 46.16.301(1) (a), (b), or (c), as existing before amendment by section 5, chapter 291, Laws of 1997, in an amount calculated to offset the cost of production of the special license plates and the administration of this program. This fee is in addition to all other fees required to register and license the vehicle for which the plates have been requested. All such additional special license plate fees collected by the department shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the motor vehicle fund. (2) In addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a motor vehicle, the holder of a collegiate license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. The state treasurer shall credit the funds to the appropriate collegiate license plate fund as provided in RCW 28B.10.890. (3) In addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a motor vehicle registration, the holder of a collegiate license plate shall pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. The state treasurer shall credit the funds to the appropriate collegiate license plate fund as provided in RCW 28B.10.890. (4) In addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a motor vehicle, the holder of a special baseball stadium license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds, minus the cost of plate production, shall be distributed to a county for the purpose of paying the principal and interest payments on bonds issued by the county to construct a baseball stadium, as defined in RCW 82.14.0485, including reasonably necessary preconstruction costs, while the taxes are being collected under RCW 82.14.360. After this date, the state treasurer shall credit the funds to the state general fund. (5) In addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a motor vehicle registration, the holder of a special baseball stadium license plate shall pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be distributed to a county for the purpose of paying the principal and interest payments on bonds issued by the county to construct a baseball stadium, as defined in RCW 82.14.0485, including reasonably necessary preconstruction costs, while the taxes are being collected under RCW 82.14.360. After this date, the state treasurer shall credit the funds to the state general fund. (6) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on January 1, 2005, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a professional fire fighters and paramedics license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the professional fire fighters and paramedics license plates. Upon the determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters benevolent fund established under RCW 46.16.30902. (7) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a professional fire fighters and paramedics license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the professional fire fighters and paramedics special license plate. Upon the determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters benevolent fund established under RCW 46.16.30902. (8) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on November 1, 2004, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "Helping Kids Speak" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Helping Kids Speak" special license plate. Upon the determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Helping Kids Speak" account established under RCW 46.16.30904. (9) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on November 1, 2005, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "Helping Kids Speak" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Helping Kids Speak" special license plate. Upon the determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Helping Kids Speak" account established under RCW 46.16.30904. (10) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on January 1, 2005, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "law enforcement memorial" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the law enforcement memorial special license plate. Upon the determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the law enforcement memorial account established under RCW 46.16.30906. (11) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "law enforcement memorial" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the law enforcement memorial special license plate. Upon the determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the law enforcement memorial account established under RCW 46.16.30906. (12)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a Washington's Wildlife collection license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Washington's Wildlife license plate collection. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state wildlife account. Proceeds credited to the state wildlife account from the sale of the Washington's Wildlife license plate collection may be used only for the department of fish and wildlife's game species management activities. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a Washington's Wildlife collection license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Washington's Wildlife license plate collection. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state wildlife account. Proceeds credited to the state wildlife account from the sale of the Washington's Wildlife license plate collection may be used only for the department of fish and wildlife's game species management activities. (13)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a Washington state parks and recreation commission special license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Washington state parks and recreation commission special license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state parks education and enhancement account established in RCW 79A.05.059. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a Washington state parks and recreation commission special license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Washington state parks and recreation commission special license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state parks education and enhancement account established in RCW 79A.05.059. (14)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "Washington Lighthouses" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Washington Lighthouses" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the lighthouse environmental programs account established under RCW 46.16.30912. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "Washington Lighthouses" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Washington Lighthouses" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the lighthouse environmental programs account established under RCW 46.16.30912. (15)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "Keep Kids Safe" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty-five dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Keep Kids Safe" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the children's trust fund established under RCW 43.121.100. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "Keep Kids Safe" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Keep Kids Safe" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the children's trust fund established under RCW 43.121.100. (16)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "we love our pets" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administrative and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "we love our pets" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the we love our pets account established under RCW 46.16.30915. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "we love our pets" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "we love our pets" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the we love our pets account established under RCW 46.16.30915. (17)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "Gonzaga University alumni association" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administrative and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Gonzaga University alumni association" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the Gonzaga University alumni association account established under RCW 46.16.30917. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "Gonzaga University alumni association" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Pursuant to RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Gonzaga University alumni association" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the Gonzaga University alumni association account established under RCW 46.16.30917. (18) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "Washington's National Park Fund" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Washington's National Park Fund" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Washington's National Park Fund" account established under RCW 46.16.30919. (19) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "Washington's National Park Fund" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Washington's National Park Fund" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Washington's National Park Fund" account established under RCW 46.16.30919. (20)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of an armed forces license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall retain an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the armed forces special license plate collection. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the veterans stewardship account established under RCW 43.60A.140. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of an armed forces license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the armed forces special license plate collection. Upon the determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the veterans stewardship account established in RCW 43.60A.140. (21)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "Ski & Ride Washington" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Ski & Ride Washington" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Ski & Ride Washington" account established under RCW 46.16.30923. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "Ski & Ride Washington" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Ski & Ride Washington" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Ski & Ride Washington" account established under RCW 46.16.30923. (22)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a Wild On Washington license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Wild On Washington license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state wildlife account. Proceeds credited to the state wildlife account from the sale of the Wild On Washington license plates must be dedicated to the department of fish and wildlife's watchable wildlife activities defined in RCW 77.32.560(2). (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a Wild On Washington license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Wild On Washington license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state wildlife account. Proceeds credited to the state wildlife account from the sale of the Wild On Washington license plates must be dedicated to the department of fish and wildlife's watchable wildlife activities defined in RCW 77.32.560(2). (23)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of an Endangered Wildlife license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Endangered Wildlife license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state wildlife account. Proceeds credited to the state wildlife account from the sale of the Endangered Wildlife license plates must be used only for the department of fish and wildlife's endangered wildlife program activities. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of an Endangered Wildlife license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the Endangered Wildlife license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the state wildlife account. Proceeds credited to the state wildlife account from the sale of the Endangered Wildlife license plates must be used only for the department of fish and wildlife's endangered wildlife program activities. (24)(a) Effective with vehicle registrations due or to become due on or after January 1, 2006, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application and registration of a vehicle, the holder of a "Share the Road" license plate shall pay an initial fee of forty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed twelve dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Share the Road" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Share the Road" account established under RCW 46.16.30929. (b) Effective with annual renewals due or to become due on or after January 1, 2007, in addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon renewal of a vehicle registration, the holder of a "Share the Road" license plate shall, upon application, pay a fee of thirty dollars. The department shall deduct an amount not to exceed two dollars of each fee collected under this subsection for administration and collection expenses incurred by it. The remaining proceeds must be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. Under RCW 46.16.755, the state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the "Share the Road" license plate. Upon determination by the department that the state has been reimbursed, the treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Share the Road" account established under RCW 46.16.30929. [2005 c 426 § 3; 2005 c 225 § 3; 2005 c 224 § 3; 2005 c 220 § 3; 2005 c 216 § 3; 2005 c 177 § 3; 2005 c 85 § 3; 2005 c 71 § 3; 2005 c 53 § 3; 2005 c 48 § 3; 2005 c 44 § 3; 2005 c 42 § 3. Prior: 2004 c 221 § 3; 2004 c 48 § 3; 2004 c 35 § 3; 1997 c 291 § 8; 1996 c 165 § 506; 1995 3rd sp.s. c 1 § 103; 1994 c 194 § 4; 1990 c 250 § 4.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2005 c 42 § 3, 2005 c 44 § 3, 2005 c 48 § 3, 2005 c 53 § 3, 2005 c 71 § 3, 2005 c 85 § 3, 2005 c 177 § 3, 2005 c 216 § 3, 2005 c 220 § 3, 2005 c 224 § 3, 2005 c 225 § 3, and by 2005 c 426 § 3, each without reference to the other. All 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). Severability -- 1996 c 165: "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." [1996 c 165 § 510.] Effective date -- 1996 c 165: "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 shall take effect immediately [March 28, 1996]." [1996 c 165 § 511.] Part headings not law -- Effective date -- 1995 3rd sp.s. c 1: See notes following RCW 82.14.0485. Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. State contribution for baseball stadium limited: RCW 82.14.0486. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.314 Special license plates — Authority to continue. The department has the sole discretion, based upon the number of sales to date, to determine whether or not to continue issuing license plates in a special series created before January 1, 2003. [2003 c 196 § 501; 1997 c 291 § 9.] Notes: Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.316 Special license plates — Transfer of vehicle — Replacement plates. Except as provided in RCW 46.16.305: (1) When a person who has been issued a special license plate or plates: (a) Under RCW 46.16.30901, 46.16.30903, 46.16.30905, or 46.16.301 as it existed before amendment by section 5, chapter 291, Laws of 1997, or under RCW 46.16.305(2) or 46.16.324; (b) approved by the special license plate review board under RCW 46.16.715 through 46.16.775; or (c) under RCW 46.16.601 sells, trades, or otherwise transfers or releases ownership of the vehicle upon which the special license plate or plates have been displayed, he or she shall immediately report the transfer of such plate or plates to an acquired vehicle or vehicle eligible for such plates pursuant to departmental rule, or he or she shall surrender such plates to the department immediately if such surrender is required by departmental rule. If a person applies for a transfer of the plate or plates to another eligible vehicle, a transfer fee of ten dollars shall be charged in addition to all other applicable fees. Such transfer fees shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund. Failure to surrender the plates when required is a traffic infraction. (2) If the special license plate or plates issued by the department become lost, defaced, damaged, or destroyed, application for a replacement special license plate or plates shall be made and fees paid as provided by law for the replacement of regular license plates. [2005 c 210 § 2. Prior: 2004 c 223 § 4; 2004 c 221 § 5, 2004 c 48 § 5; 2004 c 35 § 5; 1997 c 291 § 10; 1990 c 250 § 5.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.319 Veterans and military personnel — Emblems. (1) Veterans discharged under honorable conditions (veterans) and individuals serving on active duty in the United States armed forces (active duty military personnel) may purchase a veterans remembrance emblem or campaign medal emblem. The emblem is to be displayed on vehicle license plates in the manner described by the department, existing vehicular licensing procedures, and current laws. (2) Veterans and active duty military personnel who served during periods of war or armed conflict may purchase a remembrance emblem depicting campaign ribbons which they were awarded. (3) The following campaign ribbon remembrance emblems are available: (a) World War I victory medal; (b) World War II Asiatic-Pacific campaign medal; (c) World War II European-African Middle East campaign medal; (d) World War II American campaign medal; (e) Korean service medal; (f) Vietnam service medal; (g) Armed forces expeditionary medal awarded after 1958; and (h) Southwest Asia medal. The director may issue additional campaign ribbon emblems by rule as authorized decorations by the United States department of defense. (4) Veterans or active duty military personnel requesting a veteran remembrance emblem or campaign medal emblem or emblems must: (a) Pay a prescribed fee set by the department; and (b) Show proof of eligibility through: (i) Providing a DD-214 or discharge papers if a veteran; (ii) Providing a copy of orders awarding a campaign ribbon if an individual serving on military active duty; or (iii) Attesting in a notarized affidavit of their eligibility as required under this section. (5) Veterans or active duty military personnel who purchase a veteran remembrance emblem or a campaign medal emblem must be the legal or registered owner of the vehicle on which the emblem is to be displayed. [1997 c 234 § 1; 1991 c 339 § 11; 1990 c 250 § 6.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.324 Collegiate license plates. Effective January 1, 1995, a state university, regional university, or state college as defined in RCW 28B.10.016 may apply to the department, in a form prescribed by the department, and request the department to issue a series of collegiate license plates depicting the name and mascot or symbol of the college or university, as submitted and approved for use by the requesting institution. [1994 c 194 § 3.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.327 Military emblems — Material, display requirements. Vehicle license plate emblems and veteran remembrance emblems shall use fully reflectorized materials designed to provide visibility at night. Emblems shall be designed to be affixed to a vehicle license number plate by pressure-sensitive adhesive so as not to obscure the plate identification numbers or letters. Emblems will be issued for display on the front and rear license number plates. Single emblems will be issued for vehicles authorized to display one license number plate. [1990 c 250 § 8.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.332 Military emblems — Fees. (1) The director may adopt fees to be charged by the department for emblems issued by the department under RCW 46.16.319. (2) The fee for each remembrance emblem issued under RCW 46.16.319 shall be in an amount sufficient to offset the costs of production of remembrance emblems and the administration of that program by the department plus an amount for use by the department of veterans affairs, not to exceed a total fee of twenty-five dollars per emblem. (3) The veterans' emblem account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts by the department from the issuance of remembrance emblems under RCW 46.16.319 shall be deposited into this fund. Expenditures from the fund may be used only for the costs of production of remembrance emblems and administration of the program by the department of licensing, with the balance used only by the department of veterans affairs for projects that pay tribute to those living veterans and to those who have died defending freedom in our nation's wars and conflicts and for the upkeep and operations of existing memorials, as well as for planning, acquiring land for, and constructing future memorials. Only the director of licensing, the director of veterans affairs, or their designees may authorize expenditures from the fund. The fund is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but no appropriation is required for expenditures. [1994 c 194 § 5; 1990 c 250 § 9.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.333 Cooper Jones emblems. In cooperation with the Washington state patrol and the department of licensing, the traffic safety commission shall create and design, and the department shall issue, Cooper Jones license plate emblems displaying a symbol of bicycle safety that may be used on motor vehicles required to display two motor vehicle license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter 46.87 RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department. These license plate emblems will fund the Cooper Jones act and provide funding for bicyclist and pedestrian safety education, enforcement, and encouragement. Any person may purchase Cooper Jones license plate emblems. The emblems are to be displayed on the vehicle license plates in the manner described by the department, existing vehicular licensing procedures, and current laws. The fee for Cooper Jones emblems shall be twenty-five dollars. All moneys collected shall first go to the department to be deposited into the motor vehicle fund until all expenses of designing and producing the emblems are recovered. Thereafter, the department shall deduct an amount not to exceed five dollars of each fee collected for Cooper Jones emblems for administration and collection expenses. The remaining proceeds shall be remitted to the custody of the state treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report. The state treasurer shall credit the proceeds to the "Share the Road" account established under RCW 46.16.30929. [2005 c 426 § 5; 2002 c 264 § 3.] Notes: Finding -- 2002 c 264: "The legislature finds that bicycling and walking are becoming increasingly popular in Washington as clean and efficient modes of transportation, as recreational activities, and as organized sports. Future plans for the state's transportation system will require increased access and safety for bicycles and pedestrians on our common roadways, and federal transportation legislation and funding programs have created strong incentives to implement these changes quickly. As a result, many more people are likely to take up bicycling in Washington both as a leisure activity and as a convenient, inexpensive form of transportation. Bicyclists are more vulnerable to injury and accident than motorists, and both should be knowledgeable about traffic laws. Bicyclists should be highly visible and predictable when riding in traffic, and be encouraged to wear bicycle safety helmets. Hundreds of bicyclists and pedestrians are seriously injured every year in accidents, and millions of dollars are spent on health care costs associated with these accidents. There is clear evidence that organized training in the rules and techniques of safe and effective cycling can significantly reduce the incidence of serious injury and accidents, increase cooperation among road users, and significantly increase the incidence of bicycle helmet use, particularly among minors. A reduction in accidents benefits the entire community. Therefore, it is appropriate for businesses and community organizations to provide donations to bicycle and pedestrian safety training programs." [2002 c 264 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.335 Special license plates and emblems — Rules. The director shall adopt rules to implement RCW 46.16.301 through 46.16.332, including setting of fees. [1990 c 250 § 10.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.340 Amateur radio operator plates — Information furnished to various agencies. The director, from time to time, shall furnish the state military department, the department of community, trade, and economic development, the Washington state patrol, and all county sheriffs a list of the names, addresses, and license plate or radio station call letters of each person possessing the special amateur radio station license plates so that the facilities of such radio stations may be utilized to the fullest extent in the work of these governmental agencies. [1995 c 391 § 8; 1986 c 266 § 49; 1985 c 7 § 112; 1974 ex.s. c 171 § 43; 1967 c 32 § 23; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.340. Prior: 1957 c 145 § 3.] Notes: Effective date -- 1995 c 391: See note following RCW 38.52.005. Severability -- 1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.350 Amateur radio operator plates — Expiration or revocation of radio license — Penalty. Any radio amateur operator who holds a special call letter license plate as issued under RCW 46.16.305, and who has allowed his or her federal communications commission license to expire, or has had it revoked, must notify the director in writing within thirty days and surrender his or her call letter license plate. Failure to do so is a traffic infraction. [1997 c 291 § 11; 1990 c 250 § 11; 1979 ex.s. c 136 § 49; 1967 c 32 § 24; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.350. Prior: 1957 c 145 § 4.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1990 c 250 §§ 1-13: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Severability -- 1990 c 250: See note following RCW 46.16.301. Effective date -- Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.371 Special plates for honorary consul, foreign government representative. (1) Every honorary consul or official representative of any foreign government who is a citizen or resident of the United States of America, duly licensed and holding an exequatur issued by the department of state of the United States of America is entitled to apply to the director for, and upon satisfactory showing, and upon payment of regular license fees and excise tax, to receive, in lieu of the regular motor vehicle license plates, such special plates of a distinguishing color and running in a separate numerical series, as the director shall prescribe. Application for renewal of the license plates shall be as prescribed for the license renewal of other vehicles. (2) Whenever the owner or lessee as provided in subsection (1) of this section transfers or assigns his interest or title in the motor vehicle to which the special plates were attached, the plates shall be removed from the motor vehicle, and if another vehicle is acquired, attached thereto, and the director shall be immediately notified of the transfer of the plates; otherwise the removed plates shall be immediately forwarded to the director to be destroyed. Whenever the owner or lessee as provided in subsection (1) of this section is for any reason relieved of his duties as an honorary consul or official representative of a foreign government, he shall immediately forward the special plates to the director, who shall upon receipt thereof provide such plates as are otherwise provided by law. [1987 c 237 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.374 Taipei Economic and Cultural Office — Special plates. (1) If the eligible applicant bears the entire cost of plate production, the department shall provide for the issuance of special license plates, in lieu of regular motor vehicle license plates, for passenger vehicles having manufacturers' rated carrying capacities of one ton or less that are owned or leased by an officer of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office. The department shall issue the special license plates in a distinguishing color, running in a separate numerical series, and bearing the words "Foreign Organization." A vehicle for which special license plates are issued under this section is exempt from regular license fees under RCW 46.16.0621 and any additional vehicle license fees imposed under *RCW 82.80.020. (2) Whenever the owner or lessee as provided in subsection (1) of this section transfers or assigns the interest or title in the motor vehicle for which the special plates were issued, the plates must be removed from the motor vehicle, and if another qualified vehicle is acquired, attached to that vehicle, and the director must be immediately notified of the transfer of the plates; otherwise the removed plates must be immediately forwarded to the director to be destroyed. Whenever the owner or lessee as provided in subsection (1) of this section is for any reason relieved of his or her duties as a representative of a recognized foreign organization, he or she shall immediately forward the special plates to the director, who shall upon receipt dispose of the plates as otherwise provided by law. [2001 c 64 § 5; 1996 c 139 § 1.] Notes: *Reviser's note: RCW 82.80.020 was repealed by 2003 c 1 § 5, (Initiative Measure No. 776, approved November 5, 2002). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.376 Taipei Economic and Cultural Office — Fee exemption. A motor vehicle owned or leased by an officer of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office eligible for a special license plate under RCW 46.16.374 is exempt from the payment of license fees for the licensing of the vehicle as provided in this chapter. [1996 c 139 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.381 Special parking for persons with disabilities — Penalties — Enforcement. (1) The director shall grant special parking privileges to any person who has a disability that limits or impairs the ability to walk and meets one of the following criteria, as determined by a licensed physician or an advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW: (a) Cannot walk two hundred feet without stopping to rest; (b) Is severely limited in ability to walk due to arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition; (c) Is so severely disabled, that the person cannot walk without the use of or assistance from a brace, cane, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or other assistive device; (d) Uses portable oxygen; (e) Is restricted by lung disease to such an extent that forced expiratory respiratory volume, when measured by spirometry is less than one liter per second or the arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty mm/hg on room air at rest; (f) Impairment by cardiovascular disease or cardiac condition to the extent that the person's functional limitations are classified as class III or IV under standards accepted by the American Heart Association; or (g) Has a disability resulting from an acute sensitivity to automobile emissions which limits or impairs the ability to walk. The personal physician or advanced registered nurse practitioner of the applicant shall document that the disability is comparable in severity to the others listed in this subsection. (2) The applications for parking permits for persons with disabilities and parking permits for persons with temporary disabilities are official state documents. Knowingly providing false information in conjunction with the application is a gross misdemeanor punishable under chapter 9A.20 RCW. The following statement must appear on each application form immediately below the physician's or advanced registered nurse practitioner's signature and immediately below the applicant's signature: "A parking permit for a person with disabilities may be issued only for a medical necessity that severely affects mobility (RCW 46.16.381). Knowingly providing false information on this application is a gross misdemeanor. The penalty is up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000 or both." (3) Persons who qualify for special parking privileges are entitled to receive from the department of licensing a removable windshield placard bearing the international symbol of access and an individual serial number, along with a special identification card bearing the name and date of birth of the person to whom the placard is issued, and the placard's serial number. The special identification card shall be issued no later than January 1, 2000, to all persons who are issued parking placards, including those issued for temporary disabilities, and special parking license plates for persons with disabilities. The department shall design the placard to be displayed when the vehicle is parked by suspending it from the rearview mirror, or in the absence of a rearview mirror the card may be displayed on the dashboard of any vehicle used to transport the person with disabilities. Instead of regular motor vehicle license plates, persons with disabilities are entitled to receive special license plates under this section or RCW 46.16.385 bearing the international symbol of access for one vehicle registered in the name of the person with disabilities. Persons with disabilities who are not issued the special license plates are entitled to receive a second special placard upon submitting a written request to the department. Persons who have been issued the parking privileges and who are using a vehicle or are riding in a vehicle displaying the placard or special license plates issued under this section or RCW 46.16.385 may park in places reserved for persons with physical disabilities. The director shall adopt rules providing for the issuance of special placards and license plates to public transportation authorities, nursing homes licensed under chapter 18.51 RCW, boarding homes licensed under chapter 18.20 RCW, senior citizen centers, private nonprofit agencies as defined in chapter 24.03 RCW, and vehicles registered with the department as cabulances that regularly transport persons with disabilities who have been determined eligible for special parking privileges provided under this section. The director may issue special license plates for a vehicle registered in the name of the public transportation authority, nursing home, boarding home, senior citizen center, private nonprofit agency, or cabulance service if the vehicle is primarily used to transport persons with disabilities described in this section. Public transportation authorities, nursing homes, boarding homes, senior citizen centers, private nonprofit agencies, and cabulance services are responsible for insuring that the special placards and license plates are not used improperly and are responsible for all fines and penalties for improper use. (4) Whenever the person with disabilities transfers or assigns his or her interest in the vehicle, the special license plates shall be removed from the motor vehicle. If another vehicle is acquired by the person with disabilities and the vehicle owner qualifies for a special plate, the plate shall be attached to the vehicle, and the director shall be immediately notified of the transfer of the plate. If another vehicle is not acquired by the person with disabilities, the removed plate shall be immediately surrendered to the director. (5) The special license plate shall be renewed in the same manner and at the time required for the renewal of regular motor vehicle license plates under this chapter. No special license plate may be issued to a person who is temporarily disabled. A person who has a condition expected to improve within six months may be issued a temporary placard for a period not to exceed six months. If the condition exists after six months a new temporary placard shall be issued upon receipt of a new certification from the person's physician. The permanent parking placard and identification card of a person with disabilities shall be renewed at least every five years, as required by the director, by satisfactory proof of the right to continued use of the privileges. In the event of the permit holder's death, the parking placard and identification card must be immediately surrendered to the department. The department shall match and purge its data base of parking permits issued to persons with disabilities with available death record information at least every twelve months. (6) Each person with disabilities who has been issued a permanent parking permit on or before July 1, 1998, must renew the permit no later than July 1, 2003, subject to a schedule to be set by the department, or the permit will expire. (7) Additional fees shall not be charged for the issuance of the special placards or the identification cards. No additional fee may be charged for the issuance of the special license plates except the regular motor vehicle registration fee and any other fees and taxes required to be paid upon registration of a motor vehicle. (8) Any unauthorized use of the special placard, special license plate issued under this section or RCW 46.16.385, or identification card is a traffic infraction with a monetary penalty of two hundred fifty dollars. (9) It is a parking infraction, with a monetary penalty of two hundred fifty dollars for a person to make inaccessible the access aisle located next to a space reserved for persons with physical disabilities. The clerk of the court shall report all violations related to this subsection to the department. (10) It is a parking infraction, with a monetary penalty of two hundred fifty dollars for any person to park a vehicle in a parking place provided on private property without charge or on public property reserved for persons with physical disabilities without a placard or special license plate issued under this section or RCW 46.16.385. If a person is charged with a violation, the person shall not be determined to have committed an infraction if the person produces in court or before the court appearance the placard or special license plate issued under this section or RCW 46.16.385 required under this section. A local jurisdiction providing nonmetered, on-street parking places reserved for persons with physical disabilities may impose by ordinance time restrictions of no less than four hours on the use of these parking places. A local jurisdiction may impose by ordinance time restrictions of no less than four hours on the use of nonreserved, on-street parking spaces by vehicles displaying the special parking placards or special license plates issued under this section or RCW 46.16.385. All time restrictions must be clearly posted. (11) The penalties imposed under subsections (9) and (10) of this section shall be used by that local jurisdiction exclusively for law enforcement. The court may also impose an additional penalty sufficient to reimburse the local jurisdiction for any costs it may have incurred in removal and storage of the improperly parked vehicle. (12) Except as provided by subsection (2) of this section, it is a traffic infraction with a monetary penalty of two hundred fifty dollars for any person willfully to obtain a special license plate issued under this section or RCW 46.16.385, placard, or identification card in a manner other than that established under this section. (13)(a) A law enforcement agency authorized to enforce parking laws may appoint volunteers, with a limited commission, to issue notices of infractions for violations of this section or RCW 46.61.581. Volunteers must be at least twenty-one years of age. The law enforcement agency appointing volunteers may establish any other qualifications the agency deems desirable. (b) An agency appointing volunteers under this section must provide training to the volunteers before authorizing them to issue notices of infractions. (c) A notice of infraction issued by a volunteer appointed under this subsection has the same force and effect as a notice of infraction issued by a police officer for the same offense. (d) A police officer or a volunteer may request a person to show the person's identification card or special parking placard when investigating the possibility of a violation of this section. If the request is refused, the person in charge of the vehicle may be issued a notice of infraction for a violation of this section. (14) For second or subsequent violations of this section, in addition to a monetary fine, the violator must complete a minimum of forty hours of: (a) Community restitution for a nonprofit organization that serves persons having disabilities or disabling diseases; or (b) Any other community restitution that may sensitize the violator to the needs and obstacles faced by persons who have disabilities. (15) The court may not suspend more than one-half of any fine imposed under subsection (8), (9), (10), or (12) of this section. [2005 c 390 § 2; 2004 c 222 § 2; 2003 c 371 § 1; 2002 c 175 § 33; 2001 c 67 § 1; 1999 c 136 § 1; 1998 c 294 § 1; 1995 c 384 § 1; 1994 c 194 § 6; 1993 c 106 § 1; 1992 c 148 § 1; 1991 c 339 § 21; 1990 c 24 § 1; 1986 c 96 § 1; 1984 c 154 § 2.] Notes: Effective date -- 2004 c 222 §§ 1 and 2: See note following RCW 46.16.385. Effective date -- 2002 c 175: See note following RCW 7.80.130. Intent -- 1984 c 154: "The legislature intends to extend special parking privileges to persons with disabilities that substantially impair mobility." [1984 c 154 § 1.] Application -- 1984 c 154: "This act applies to special license plates, cards, or decals issued after June 7, 1984. Nothing in this act invalidates special license plates, cards, or decals issued before June 7, 1984." [1984 c 154 § 9.] Severability -- 1984 c 154: "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." [1984 c 154 § 10.] Accessible parking spaces required: RCW 70.92.140. Free parking by disabled persons: RCW 46.61.582. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.385 Versions of special plates for persons with disabilities. (1) The department shall design and issue versions of special license plates including the international symbol of access described in RCW 70.92.120 for plates issued under (a) RCW 46.16.301; (b) RCW 46.16.305, except those plates issued under RCW 46.16.305 (1) and (2); (c) RCW 46.16.324; (d) RCW 46.16.745; (e) RCW 73.04.110; (f) RCW 73.04.115; (g) RCW 46.16.301(1) (a), (b), or (c), as it existed before amendment by section 5, chapter 291, Laws of 1997; (h) RCW 46.16.565; or (i) plates issued under RCW 46.16.601. The version of the special plate including the international symbol of access may be used in lieu of the parking placard issued to persons who qualify for special parking privileges under RCW 46.16.381. The department may not charge an additional fee for the issuance of the special license plate including the international symbol of access, except the regular motor vehicle registration fee, the fee associated with the particular special plate, and any other fees and taxes required to be paid upon registration of a motor vehicle. The international symbol of access must be incorporated into the design of the special license plate in a manner to be determined by the department, and under existing vehicular licensing procedures and existing laws. (2) Persons who qualify for special parking privileges under RCW 46.16.381, and who have applied and paid the appropriate fee for any of the special license plates listed in subsection (1) of this section, are entitled to receive from the department a special license plate including the international symbol of access. The special license plate including the international symbol of access may be used for one vehicle registered in the name of the person with the disability. Persons who have been issued the parking privileges or who are using a vehicle displaying the special license plate including the international symbol of access may park in places reserved for persons with physical disabilities. (3) Special license plates including the international symbol of access must be administered in the same manner as plates issued under RCW 46.16.381. (4) The department shall adopt rules to implement this section. [2005 c 390 § 3; 2005 c 210 § 3; 2004 c 222 § 1.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2005 c 210 § 3 and by 2005 c 390 § 3, 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 -- 2004 c 222 §§ 1 and 2: "Sections 1 and 2 of this act take effect November 1, 2004." [2004 c 222 § 5.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.390 Special plate or card issued by another jurisdiction. A special license plate or card issued by another state or country that indicates an occupant of the vehicle has disabilities, entitles the vehicle on or in which it is displayed and being used to transport the person with disabilities to lawfully park in a parking place reserved for persons with physical disabilities pursuant to chapter 70.92 RCW or authority implemental thereof. [2005 c 390 § 4; 1991 c 339 § 22; 1984 c 51 § 1.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.450 Appeals to superior court from suspension, revocation, cancellation, or refusal of license or certificate. See RCW 46.12.240. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.460 Nonresident members of armed forces — Issuance of temporary license. Upon the payment of a fee of ten dollars therefor, the department of licensing shall issue a temporary motor vehicle license for a motor vehicle in this state for a period of forty-five days when such motor vehicle has been or is being purchased by a nonresident member of the armed forces of the United States and an application, accompanied with prepayment of required fees, for out of state registration has been made by the purchaser. [1979 c 158 § 141; 1967 c 202 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.470 Temporary license — Display. The temporary license provided for in RCW 46.16.460 shall be carried on the interior of the motor vehicle in such a way as to be clearly visible from outside the vehicle. [1967 c 202 § 5.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.480 Nonresident members of armed forces — Exemption from sales, use, or motor vehicle excise taxes — Extent of exemption. The original purchaser of a motor vehicle, for which a temporary license as provided in RCW 46.16.460 has been issued, shall not be subject to the sales tax, use tax, or motor vehicle excise tax during the effective period of such license or thereafter unless the motor vehicle, after the effective period of such license, is still in this state or within a period of one year after the effective period of such license is returned to this state. [1967 c 202 § 6.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.490 Nonresident members of armed forces — Rules and regulations — Proof. The department of licensing shall prescribe rules and regulations governing the administration of RCW 46.16.460 through 46.16.490. The department may require that adequate proof of the facts asserted in the application for a temporary license shall be made before the temporary license shall be granted. [1979 c 158 § 142; 1967 c 202 § 7.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.500 Liability of operator, owner, lessee for violations. Whenever an act or omission is declared to be unlawful in chapter 46.16 RCW, if the operator of the vehicle is not the owner or lessee of such vehicle, but is so operating or moving the vehicle with the express or implied permission of the owner or lessee, then the operator and/or owner or lessee are both subject to the provisions of this chapter with the primary responsibility to be that of the owner or lessee. If the person operating the vehicle at the time of the unlawful act or omission is not the owner or lessee of the vehicle, such person is fully authorized to accept the citation and execute the promise to appear on behalf of the owner or lessee. [1980 c 104 § 3; 1969 ex.s. c 69 § 2.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.505 Campers — License and plates — Application — Fee. It shall be unlawful for a person to operate any vehicle equipped with a camper over and along a public highway of this state without first having obtained and having in full force and effect a current and proper camper license and displaying a camper license number plate therefor as required by law: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That if a camper is part of the inventory of a manufacturer or dealer and is unoccupied at all times, and a dated demonstration permit, valid for no more than seventy-two hours is carried in the motor vehicle at all times it is operated by any such individual, such camper may be demonstrated if carried upon an appropriately licensed vehicle. Application for an original camper license shall be made on a form furnished for the purpose by the director. Such application shall be made by the owner of the camper or his duly authorized agent over the signature of such owner or agent, and he shall certify that the statements therein are true and to the best of his knowledge. The application must show: (1) Name and address of the owner of the camper; (2) Trade name of the camper, model, year, and the serial number thereof; (3) Such other information as the director requires. There shall be paid and collected annually for each registration year or fractional part thereof and upon each camper a license fee or, if the camper was previously licensed in this state and has not been registered in another jurisdiction in the intervening period, a renewal license fee. Such license fee shall be in the sum of four dollars and ninety cents, and such renewal license fee shall be in the sum of three dollars and fifty cents. Except as otherwise provided for in this section, the provisions of chapter 46.16 RCW shall apply to campers in the same manner as they apply to vehicles. [1975 1st ex.s. c 118 § 11; 1975 c 41 § 1; 1971 ex.s. c 231 § 7.] Notes: Effective date -- Severability -- 1975 1st ex.s. c 118: See notes following RCW 46.16.006. Effective date -- 1971 ex.s. c 231: See note following RCW 46.01.130. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.560 Personalized license plates — Defined. Personalized license plates, as used in this chapter, means license plates that have displayed upon them the registration number assigned to the vehicle or camper for which such registration number was issued in a combination of letters or numbers, or both, requested by the owner of the vehicle or camper in accordance with this chapter. [1975 c 59 § 1; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 2.] Notes: Personalized license plates -- Legislative declaration: "It is declared to be the public policy of the state of Washington to direct financial resources of this state toward the support and aid of the wildlife resources existing within the state of Washington in order that the general welfare of these inhabitants of the state be served. For the purposes of *this chapter, wildlife resources are understood to be those species of wildlife other than that managed by the department of fisheries under their existing jurisdiction as well as all unclassified marine fish, shellfish, and marine invertebrates which shall remain under the jurisdiction of the director of fisheries. The legislature further finds that the preservation, protection, perpetuation, and enhancement of such wildlife resources of the state is of major concern to it, and that aid for a satisfactory environment and ecological balance in this state for such wildlife resources serves a public interest, purpose, and desire. It is further declared that such preservation, protection, perpetuation, and enhancement can be fostered through financial support derived on a voluntary basis from those citizens of the state of Washington who wish to assist in such objectives; that a desirable manner of accomplishing this is through offering personalized license plates for certain vehicles and campers the fees for which are to be directed to the state treasury to the credit of the **state game fund for the furtherance of the programs, policies, and activities of the state **game department in preservation, protection, perpetuation, and enhancement of the wildlife resources that abound within the geographical limits of the state of Washington. In particular, the legislature recognizes the benefit of this program to be specifically directed toward those species of wildlife including but not limited to song birds, protected wildlife, rare and endangered wildlife, aquatic life, and specialized-habitat types, both terrestrial and aquatic, as well as all unclassified marine fish, shellfish, and marine invertebrates which shall remain under the jurisdiction of the director of fisheries that exist within the limits of the state of Washington." [1975 c 59 § 7; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 1. Formerly RCW 77.12.175.] Reviser's note: *(1) The term "this chapter" refers to chapter 77.12 RCW, where this section was originally codified, pursuant to legislative directive, as RCW 77.12.175. It was subsequently decodified by 1980 c 78 § 32. **(2) References to the "state game fund" and "game department" mean the "state wildlife fund" and "department of wildlife." See note following RCW 77.04.020. The "state wildlife fund" was renamed the "state wildlife account" pursuant to 2005 c 224 § 4 and 2005 c 225 § 4. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.565 Personalized license plates — Application. Any person who is the registered owner of a passenger motor vehicle, a motor truck, a trailer, a camper, a private bus, or a motorcycle registered with the department, excluding proportionally registered vehicles, or who makes application for an original registration or renewal registration of such vehicle or camper may, upon payment of the fee prescribed in RCW 46.16.585, apply to the department for personalized license plates, in the manner described in RCW 46.16.580, which plates shall be affixed to the vehicle or camper for which registration is sought in lieu of the regular license plates. [1985 c 173 § 1; 1983 c 27 § 4; 1975 c 59 § 2; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 3.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.570 Personalized license plates — Design. Except for personalized plates issued under RCW 46.16.601, the personalized license plates shall be the same design as regular license plates, and shall consist of numbers or letters, or any combination thereof not exceeding seven positions unless proposed by the department and approved by the Washington state patrol and not less than one position, to the extent that there are no conflicts with existing passenger, commercial, trailer, motorcycle, or special license plates series or with the provisions of RCW 46.16.230 or 46.16.235: PROVIDED, That the maximum number of positions on personalized license plates for motorcycles shall be designated by the department. [2005 c 210 § 4; 1986 c 108 § 1; 1983 1st ex.s. c 24 § 1; 1975 c 59 § 3; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 4.] Notes: Effective dates -- 1983 1st ex.s. c 24: "Section 2 of this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect on July 1, 1983. Section 1 of this act takes effect on July 1, 1984." [1983 1st ex.s. c 24 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.575 Personalized license plates — Issuance to registered owner only. Personalized license plates shall be issued only to the registered owner of a vehicle on which they are to be displayed. [1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 5.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.580 Personalized license plates — Application requirements. An applicant for issuance of personalized license plates or renewal of such plates in the subsequent year pursuant to this chapter shall file an application therefor in such form and by such date as the department may require, indicating thereon the combination of letters or numbers, or both, requested as a vehicle license plate number. There shall be no duplication or conflict with existing or projected vehicle license plate series or other numbering systems for records kept by the department, and the department may refuse to issue any combination of letters or numbers, or both, that may carry connotations offensive to good taste and decency or which would be misleading or a duplication of license plates provided for in chapter 46.16 RCW. [1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 6.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.585 Personalized license plates — Fees — Renewal — Penalty. In addition to the regular registration fee, and any other fees and taxes required to be paid upon registration, the applicant shall be charged a fee of thirty dollars. In addition to the regular renewal fee, and in addition to any other fees and taxes required to be paid, the applicant for a renewal of such plates shall be charged an additional fee of twenty dollars: PROVIDED, That any person who purchased personalized license plates containing three letters and three digits on or between the dates of August 9, 1971, and November 6, 1973, shall not be required to pay the additional annual renewal fee of twenty dollars commencing with the year 1976. All personalized license plates must be renewed on an annual basis, regardless of whether a vehicle on which they are displayed will not be driven on public highways or may also be eligible to display permanent license plates valid for the life of such vehicle without annual renewal. Personalized license plates that are not renewed must be surrendered to the department, and failure to do so is a traffic infraction. [1979 ex.s. c 136 § 51; 1975 c 59 § 4; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 7.] Notes: Effective date -- Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.590 Personalized license plates — Transfer fees. Whenever any person who has been issued personalized license plates applies to the department for transfer of such plates to a subsequently acquired vehicle or camper eligible for personalized license plates, a transfer fee of ten dollars shall be charged in addition to all other appropriate fees. Such transfer fees shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund. [2004 c 223 § 5; 1975 c 59 § 5; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 8.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.595 Personalized license plates — Transfer or surrender upon sale or release of vehicle — Penalty. When any person who has been issued personalized license plates sells, trades, or otherwise releases ownership of the vehicle upon which the personalized license plates have been displayed, he shall immediately report the transfer of such plates to an acquired vehicle or camper eligible for personalized license plates, pursuant to RCW 46.16.590, or he shall surrender such plates to the department forthwith and release his priority to the letters or numbers, or combination thereof, displayed on the personalized license plates. Failure to surrender such plates is a traffic infraction. [1979 ex.s. c 136 § 52; 1975 c 59 § 6; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 9.] Notes: Effective date -- Severability -- 1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.600 Personalized license plates — Rules and regulations. (1) The director of licensing may establish such rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of RCW 46.16.560 through 46.16.595. (2) Upon direction by the board, the department shall adopt a rule limiting the ability of organizations and governmental entities to apply for more than one license plate series. [2005 c 210 § 5; 1979 c 158 § 143; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 10.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.601 Personalized special plates. (Effective March 1, 2007.) (1) The following special license plate series created by the legislature may be personalized: (a) RCW 46.16.301 as currently law; (b) RCW 46.16.301(1) (a), (b), or (c), as it existed before amendment by section 5, chapter 291, Laws of 1997; (c) RCW 46.16.305, except those plates issued under RCW 46.16.305 (1) and (2); (d) RCW 46.16.324; (e) RCW 46.16.385; or (f) RCW 46.16.745. (2) Personalized special plates issued under this section may be personalized only by using numbers or letters, or any combination thereof not exceeding seven positions, and not less than one position, to the extent that there are no conflicts with existing license plate series. A personalized special license plate is subject to the same requirements as personalized license plates listed in RCW 46.16.575, 46.16.580, 46.16.590, 46.16.595, and 46.16.600. (3) In addition to any other fees and taxes due at the time of registration, applicants for a personalized special license plate must pay both the fees to purchase and renew a special plate as set out in the statute creating the special plate and the personalized plate as required in RCW 46.16.585 and 46.16.606. The special plate fee must be distributed in accordance with the requirements set out in the statute creating the special plate. The personalized plate fee must be distributed under RCW 46.16.605 and 46.16.606. The transfer of personalized special plates is to be administered under RCW 46.16.316. [2005 c 210 § 1.] Notes: Effective date -- 2005 c 210 § 1: "Section 1 of this act takes effect March 1, 2007." [2005 c 210 § 9.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.605 Personalized license plates — Disposition of fees — Costs. All revenue derived from the fees provided for in RCW 46.16.585 shall be forwarded to the state treasurer and be deposited to the credit of the *state wildlife fund to be used for the preservation, protection, perpetuation, and enhancement of nongame species of wildlife including but not limited to song birds, raptors, protected wildlife, rare and endangered wildlife, aquatic life, and specialized-habitat types, both terrestrial and aquatic, as well as all unclassified marine fish, shellfish, and marine invertebrates. Administrative costs incurred by the department of licensing as a direct result of RCW 46.16.560 through 46.16.605 and77.12.170 shall be appropriated by the legislature from the *state wildlife fund from those funds deposited therein resulting from the sale of personalized license plates. If the actual costs incurred by the department of licensing are less than that which has been appropriated by the legislature the remainder shall revert to the *state wildlife fund. [1988 c 36 § 27; 1983 1st ex.s. c 24 § 2; 1983 c 3 § 118; 1979 c 158 § 144; 1973 1st ex.s. c 200 § 11.] Notes: *Reviser's note: The "state wildlife fund" was renamed the "state wildlife account" pursuant to 2005 c 224 § 4 and 2005 c 225 § 4. Effective dates -- 1983 1st ex.s. c 24: See note following RCW 46.16.570. State wildlife account: RCW 77.12.170. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.606 Personalized license plates — Additional fee. In addition to the fees imposed in RCW 46.16.585 for application and renewal of personalized license plates an additional fee of ten dollars shall be charged. The revenue from the additional fee shall be deposited in the *state wildlife fund and used for the management of resources associated with the nonconsumptive use of wildlife. [1991 sp.s. c 7 § 13.] Notes: *Reviser's note: The "state wildlife fund" was renamed the "state wildlife account" pursuant to 2005 c 224 § 4 and 2005 c 225 § 4. Effective date -- 1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.630 Moped registration. Application for registration of a moped shall be made to the department of licensing in such manner and upon such forms as the department shall prescribe, and shall state the name and address of each owner of the moped to be registered, the vehicle identification number, and such other information as the department may require, and shall be accompanied by a registration fee of thirty dollars. Upon receipt of the application and the application fee, the moped shall be registered and a registration number assigned, which shall be affixed to the moped in the manner as provided by rules adopted by the department. The registration provided in this section shall be valid for a period of twelve months. Every owner of a moped in this state shall renew the registration, in such manner as the department shall prescribe, for an additional period of twelve months, upon payment of a renewal fee of thirty dollars. Any person acquiring a moped already validly registered must, within fifteen days of the acquisition or purchase of the moped, make application to the department for transfer of the registration, and the application shall be accompanied by a transfer fee of five dollars. The registration fees provided in this section shall be in lieu of any personal property tax or the vehicle excise tax imposed by chapter 82.44 RCW. The department shall, at the time the registration number is assigned, make available a decal or other identifying device to be displayed on the moped. A fee of one dollar and fifty cents shall be charged for the decal or other identifying device. The provisions of RCW 46.01.130 and 46.01.140 shall apply to applications for the issuance of registration numbers or renewals or transfers thereof for mopeds as they do to the issuance of vehicle licenses, the appointment of agents, and the collection of application fees. Except for the fee collected pursuant to RCW 46.01.140, all fees collected under this section shall be deposited in the motor vehicle fund. [2002 c 352 § 9; 1997 c 241 § 11; 1979 ex.s. c 213 § 5.] Notes: Effective dates -- 2002 c 352: See note following RCW 46.09.070. Drivers' license, motorcycle endorsement, moped exemption: RCW 46.20.500. Operation and safety standards for mopeds: RCW 46.61.710, 46.61.720. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.640 Wheelchair conveyances. Wheelchair conveyances that are incapable of complying with RCW 46.37.340 shall be licensed in the manner provided for mopeds in RCW 46.16.630. [1983 c 200 § 2.] Notes: Severability -- 1983 c 200: See note following RCW 46.04.710. Wheelchair conveyances definition: RCW 46.04.710. operator's license: RCW 46.20.109. public roadways, operating on: RCW 46.61.730. safety standards: RCW 46.37.610. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.670 Boat trailers — Fee for freshwater aquatic weeds account. In addition to any other fee required under this chapter, boat trailers shall annually pay a fee of three dollars. The proceeds of this fee shall be deposited in the freshwater aquatic weeds account under RCW 43.21A.650. [1991 c 302 § 3.] Notes: Effective date -- 1991 c 302: "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 shall take effect July 1, 1991, except section 3 of this act shall be effective for vehicle registrations that expire August 31, 1992, and thereafter." [1991 c 302 § 6.] Findings -- 1991 c 302: See note following RCW 43.21A.650. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.680 Kit vehicles. All kit vehicles are licensed as original transactions when first titled in Washington, and the following provisions apply: (1) The department of licensing shall charge original licensing fees and issue new plates appropriate to the use class. (2) An inspection by the Washington state patrol is required to determine the correct identification number, and year or make if needed. (3) The use class is the actual use of the vehicle, i.e. passenger car or truck. (4) The make shall be listed as "KITV," and the series and body designation must describe what the vehicle looks like, i.e. 48 Bradley GT, 57 MG, and must include the word "replica." (5) Upon payment of original licensing fees the department may license a kit vehicle under RCW 46.16.305(1) as a street rod if the vehicle is manufactured to have the same appearance as a similar vehicle manufactured before 1949. (6) For a manufactured new vehicle kit and a manufactured body kit, the model year of the vehicle is the year reflected on the manufacturer's certificate of origin for that vehicle. If this is not available, the Washington state patrol shall assign a model year at the time of inspection. (7) The vehicle identification number (VIN) of a new vehicle kit and body kit is the vehicle identification number as reflected on the manufacturer's certificate of origin. If the VIN is not available, the Washington state patrol shall assign a VIN at the time of inspection. [1996 c 225 § 10.] Notes: Finding -- 1996 c 225: See note following RCW 46.04.125. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.685 License plate technology account. The license plate technology account is created in the state treasury. All receipts collected under RCW 46.01.140(4)(e)(ii) must be deposited into this account. Expenditures from this account must support current and future license plate technology and systems integration upgrades for both the department and correctional industries. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation. Additionally, the moneys in this account may be used to reimburse the motor vehicle account for any appropriation made to implement the digital license plate system. [2003 c 370 § 4.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.690 License plate design services — Fee. The department shall offer license plate design services to organizations that are sponsoring a new special license plate series or are seeking to redesign the appearance of an existing special license plate series that they sponsored. In providing this service, the department must work with the requesting organization in determining the specific qualities of the new plate design and must provide full design services to the organization. The department shall collect from the requesting organization a fee of two hundred dollars for providing license plate design services. This fee includes one original license plate design and up to five additional renditions of the original design. If the organization requests the department to provide further renditions, in addition to the five renditions provided for under the original fee, the department shall collect an additional fee of one hundred dollars per rendition. All revenue collected under this section must be deposited into the multimodal transportation account. [2005 c 210 § 6; 2003 c 361 § 502.] Notes: Findings -- Part headings not law -- Severability -- 2003 c 361: See notes following RCW 82.36.025. Effective dates -- 2003 c 361: See note following RCW 82.08.020. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.700 Special license plates — Intent. The legislature has seen an increase in the demand from constituent groups seeking recognition and funding through the establishment of commemorative or special license plates. The high cost of implementing a new special license plate series coupled with the uncertainty of the state's ability to recoup its costs, has led the legislature to delay the implementation of new special license plates. In order to address these issues, it is the intent of the legislature to create a mechanism that will allow for the evaluation of special license plate requests and establish a funding policy that will alleviate the financial burden currently placed on the state. Using these two strategies, the legislature will be better equipped to efficiently process special license plate legislation. [2003 c 196 § 1.] Notes: Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: "Part headings used in this act are not part of the law." [2003 c 196 § 601.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.705 Special license plate review board — Created. (1) The special license plate review board is created. (2) The board will consist of seven members: One member appointed by the governor and who will serve as chair of the board; four members of the legislature, one from each caucus of the house of representatives and the senate; a department of licensing representative appointed by the director; and a Washington state patrol representative appointed by the chief. (3) Members shall serve terms of four years, except that four of the members initially appointed will be appointed for terms of two years. No member may be appointed for more than three consecutive terms. (4) The respective appointing authority may remove members from the board before the expiration of their terms only for cause based upon a determination of incapacity, incompetence, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office as ordered by the Thurston county superior court, upon petition and show cause proceedings brought for that purpose in that court and directed to the board member in question. [2005 c 319 § 117; 2003 c 196 § 101.] Notes: Findings--Intent--Part headings--Effective dates -- 2005 c 319: See notes following RCW 43.17.020. Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.715 Board — Administration. (1) The board shall meet periodically at the call of the chair, but must meet at least one time each year within ninety days before an upcoming regular session of the legislature. The board may adopt its own rules and may establish its own procedures. It shall act collectively in harmony with recorded resolutions or motions adopted by a majority vote of the members, and it must have a quorum present to take a vote on a special license plate application. (2) The board will be compensated from the general appropriation for the department of licensing in accordance with RCW 43.03.250. Each board member will be compensated in accordance with RCW 43.03.250 and reimbursed for actual necessary traveling and other expenses in going to, attending, and returning from meetings of the board or that are incurred in the discharge of duties requested by the chair. However, in no event may a board member be compensated in any year for more than one hundred twenty days, except the chair may be compensated for not more than one hundred fifty days. Service on the board does not qualify as a service credit for the purposes of a public retirement system. (3) The board shall keep proper records and is subject to audit by the state auditor or other auditing entities. (4) The department of licensing shall provide administrative support to the board, which must include at least the following: (a) Provide general staffing to meet the administrative needs of the board; (b) Report to the board on the reimbursement status of any new special license plate series for which the state had to pay the start-up costs; (c) Process special license plate applications and confirm that the sponsoring organization has submitted all required documentation. If an incomplete application is received, the department must return it to the sponsoring organization; (d) Compile the annual financial reports submitted by sponsoring organizations with active special license plate series and present those reports to the board for review and approval. [2005 c 319 § 118; 2003 c 196 § 102.] Notes: Findings--Intent--Part headings--Effective dates -- 2005 c 319: See notes following RCW 43.17.020. Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.725 Board — Powers and duties — Moratorium on issuance of special plates. (1) The creation of the board does not in any way preclude the authority of the legislature to independently propose and enact special license plate legislation. (2) The board must review and either approve or reject special license plate applications submitted by sponsoring organizations. (3) Duties of the board include but are not limited to the following: (a) Review and approve the annual financial reports submitted by sponsoring organizations with active special license plate series and present those annual financial reports to the senate and house transportation committees; (b) Report annually to the senate and house transportation committees on the special license plate applications that were considered by the board; (c) Issue approval and rejection notification letters to sponsoring organizations, the department, the chairs of the senate and house of representatives transportation committees, and the legislative sponsors identified in each application. The letters must be issued within seven days of making a determination on the status of an application; (d) Review annually the number of plates sold for each special license plate series created after January 1, 2003. The board may submit a recommendation to discontinue a special plate series to the chairs of the senate and house of representatives transportation committees; (e) Provide policy guidance and directions to the department concerning the adoption of rules necessary to limit the number of special license plates that an organization or a governmental entity may apply for. (4) In order to assess the effects and impact of the proliferation of special license plates, the legislature declares a temporary moratorium on the issuance of any additional plates until June 1, 2007. During this period of time, the special license plate review board created in RCW 46.16.705 and the department of licensing are prohibited from accepting, reviewing, processing, or approving any applications. Additionally, no special license plate may be enacted by the legislature during the moratorium, unless the proposed license plate has been approved by the board before February 15, 2005. [2005 c 319 § 119; 2005 c 210 § 7; 2003 c 196 § 103.] Notes: Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2005 c 210 § 7 and by 2005 c 319 § 119, 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). Findings--Intent--Part headings--Effective dates -- 2005 c 319: See notes following RCW 43.17.020. Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.735 Special license plates — Sponsoring organization requirements. (1) For an organization to qualify for a special license plate under the special license plate approval program created in RCW 46.16.705 through 46.16.765, the sponsoring organization must submit documentation in conjunction with the application to the department that verifies: (a) That the organization is a nonprofit organization, as defined in 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(3). The department may request a copy of an Internal Revenue Service ruling to verify an organization's nonprofit status; and (b) That the organization is located in Washington and has registered as a charitable organization with the secretary of state's office as required by law. (2) For a governmental body to qualify for a special license plate under the special license plate approval program created in RCW 46.16.705 through 46.16.765, a governmental body must be: (a) A political subdivision, including but not limited to any county, city, town, municipal corporation, or special purpose taxing district that has the express permission of the political subdivision's executive body to sponsor a special license plate; (b) A federally recognized tribal government that has received the approval of the executive body of that government to sponsor a special license plate; (c) A state agency that has received approval from the director of the agency or the department head; or (d) A community or technical college that has the express permission of the college's board of trustees to sponsor a special license plate. [2004 c 222 § 3; 2003 c 196 § 201.] Notes: Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.745 Special license plates — Application requirements. (1) A sponsoring organization meeting the requirements of RCW 46.16.735, applying for the creation of a special license plate to the special license plate review board must, on an application supplied by the department, provide the minimum application requirements in subsection (2) of this section. (2) The sponsoring organization shall: (a) Submit prepayment of all start-up costs associated with the creation and implementation of the special license plate in an amount determined by the department. The department shall place this money into the special license plate applicant trust account created under *RCW 46.16.755(4); (b) Provide a proposed license plate design; (c) Provide a marketing strategy outlining short and long-term marketing plans for each special license plate and a financial analysis outlining the anticipated revenue and the planned expenditures of the revenues derived from the sale of the special license plate; (d) Provide a signature of a legislative sponsor and proposed legislation creating the special license plate; (e) Provide proof of organizational qualifications as determined by the department as provided for in RCW 46.16.735; (f) Provide signature sheets that include signatures from individuals who intend to purchase the special license plate and the number of plates each individual intends to purchase. The sheets must reflect a minimum of three thousand five hundred intended purchases of the special license plate. (3) After an application is approved by the special license plate review board, the application need not be reviewed again by the board for a period of three years. [2005 c 210 § 8; 2003 c 196 § 301.] Notes: *Reviser's note: The special license plate applicant trust account is created in RCW 46.16.755(3). Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.755 Special license plates — Disposition of revenues. (1)(a) Revenues generated from the sale of special license plates for those sponsoring organizations who used the application process in *RCW 46.16.745(3) must be deposited into the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state's implementation costs have been fully reimbursed. The department shall apply the application fee required under *RCW 46.16.745(3)(a) towards those costs. (b) When it is determined that the state has been fully reimbursed the department must notify the house of representatives and senate transportation committees, the sponsoring organization, and the treasurer, and commence the distribution of the revenue as otherwise provided by law. (2) If reimbursement does not occur within two years from the date the plate is first offered for sale to the public, the special license plate series must be placed in probationary status for a period of one year from that date. If the state is still not fully reimbursed for its implementation costs after the one-year probation, the plate series must be discontinued immediately. Special plates issued before discontinuation are valid until replaced under RCW 46.16.233. (3) The special license plate applicant trust account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from special license plate applicants, except the application fee as provided in *RCW 46.16.745(3), must be deposited into the account. Only the director of the department or the director's designee may authorize disbursements from the account. The account is not subject to the allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, nor is an appropriation required for disbursements. (4) The department shall provide the special license plate applicant with a written receipt for the payment. (5) The department shall maintain a record of each special license plate applicant trust account deposit, including, but not limited to, the name and address of each special license plate applicant whose funds are being deposited, the amount paid, and the date of the deposit. (6) After the department receives written notice that the special license plate applicant's application has been: (a) Approved by the legislature the director shall request that the money be transferred to the motor vehicle account; (b) Denied by the special license plate review board or the legislature the director shall provide a refund to the applicant within thirty days; or (c) Withdrawn by the special license plate applicant the director shall provide a refund to the applicant within thirty days. [2004 c 222 § 4; 2003 c 196 § 302.] Notes: *Reviser's note: RCW 46.16.745 was amended by 2005 c 210 § 8, deleting subsection (3). Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.765 Special license plates — Continuing requirements. (1) Within thirty days of legislative enactment of a new special license plate series for a qualifying organization meeting the requirements of RCW 46.16.735(1), the department shall enter into a written agreement with the organization that sponsored the special license plate. The agreement must identify the services to be performed by the sponsoring organization. The agreement must be consistent with all applicable state law and include the following provision: "No portion of any funds disbursed under the agreement may be used, directly or indirectly, for any of the following purposes: (a) Attempting to influence: (i) The passage or defeat of legislation by the legislature of the state of Washington, by a county, city, town, or other political subdivision of the state of Washington, or by the Congress; or (ii) the adoption or rejection of a rule, standard, rate, or other legislative enactment of a state agency; (b) Making contributions reportable under chapter 42.17 RCW; or (c) Providing a: (i) Gift; (ii) honoraria; or (iii) travel, lodging, meals, or entertainment to a public officer or employee." (2) The sponsoring organization must submit an annual financial report by September 30th of each year to the department detailing actual revenues and expenditures of the revenues received from sales of the special license plate. Consistent with the agreement under subsection (1) of this section, the sponsoring organization must expend the revenues generated from the sale of the special license plate series for the benefit of the public, and it must be spent within this state. Disbursement of the revenue generated from the sale of the special license plate to the sponsoring organization is contingent upon the organization meeting all reporting and review requirements as required by the department. (3) If the sponsoring organization ceases to exist or the purpose of the special license plate series ceases to exist, revenues generated from the sale of the special license plates must be deposited into the motor vehicle account. (4) A sponsoring organization may not seek to redesign its plate series until all of the inventory is sold or purchased by the organization itself. All cost for redesign of a plate series must be paid by the sponsoring organization. [2003 c 196 § 303.] Notes: Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.775 Special license plates — Nonreviewed plates. (1) A special license plate series created by the legislature after January 1, 2004, that has not been reviewed and approved by the special license plate review board is subject to the following requirements: (a) The organization sponsoring the license plate series shall, within thirty days of enactment of the legislation creating the plate series, submit prepayment of all start-up costs associated with the creation and implementation of the special license plate in an amount determined by the department. The prepayment will be credited to the motor vehicle fund. The creation and implementation of the plate series may not commence until payment is received by the department. (b) If the sponsoring organization is not able to meet the prepayment requirements in (a) of this subsection and can demonstrate this fact to the satisfaction of the department, the revenues generated from the sale of the special license plates must be deposited in the motor vehicle account until the department determines that the state's portion of the implementation costs have been fully reimbursed. When it is determined that the state has been fully reimbursed the department must notify the treasurer to commence distribution of the revenue according to statutory provisions. (c) The sponsoring organization must provide a proposed license plate design to the department within thirty days of enactment of the legislation creating the plate series. (2) The state must be reimbursed for its portion of the implementation costs within two years from the date the new plate series goes on sale to the public. If the reimbursement does not occur within the two-year time frame, the special license plate series must be placed in probationary status for a period of one year from that date. If the state is still not fully reimbursed for its implementation costs after the one-year probation, the plate series must be discontinued immediately. Those plates issued before discontinuation are valid until replaced under RCW 46.16.233. (3) If the sponsoring organization ceases to exist or the purpose of the special plate series ceases to exist, revenues generated from the sale of the special license plates must be deposited into the motor vehicle account. (4) A sponsoring organization may not seek to redesign their plate series until all of the existing inventory is sold or purchased by the organization itself. All cost for redesign of a plate series must be paid by the sponsoring organization. [2003 c 196 § 304.] Notes: Part headings not law -- 2003 c 196: See note following RCW 46.16.700. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46.16.900 Severability — 1973 1st ex.s. c 132. If any provision of this 1973 amendatory act is declared unconstitutional, or the applicability thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the constitutionality of the remainder of the amendatory act and the applicability thereof to persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby. [1973 1st ex.s. c 132 § 24.]