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✔ Article reviewed by Ethan Orenstein. Bringing motorcycles back from the dead since 2013. Learn More.

How to Register a Motorcycle in Washington

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In order to ride your motorcycle on public roadways in Washington, you’ll need to make sure it is registered and that your registration is valid. 

When you buy a motorcycle, you’ll first need to transfer the title and get an insurance policy. Next, you’ll need to get it registered and get your Washington motorcycle license plates and stickers. 

Note, you should also be sure to have a valid Washington motorcycle license when you register your motorcycle too. 

This page will provide you with an overview of the steps to register a motorcycle in Washington for the first time, and then we’ll go over your options for renewing your motorcycle registration before it expires. 

Remember, your registration documents and proof of insurance should be kept on your bike when you ride. 

Washington Motorcycle Registration Steps

Registering a motorcycle in Washington is basically the same process as registering any other vehicle.

If necessary, you’ll also need to complete any motorcycle inspections as required by the Washington DOL.

How to register a motorcycle in Washington:

  1. Submit your application by mail or in person at your local DOL office. 
  2. Complete a title and registration application: https://www.dol.wa.gov/forms/vitallinks/?form=420001 
  3. Provide your proof of ownership documents (title, bill of sale, etc.)
  4. Pay the registration fees and taxes. 

If you’ve just moved to Washington, you’ll need to get your out-of-state motorcycle registered within 30 days. 

If you’ve recently bought a used motorcycle or have received one as a gift, you’ll have 15 days to get it transferred into your name. 

Renew Motorcycle Registration in Washington

In order to avoid any traffic tickets or late fees, you’ll want to make sure that your Washington motorcycle registration and license plate stickers are valid. 

Your motorcycle registration will need to be renewed each year. 

Your options for renewing your Washington motorcycle registration include:

The information and items you’ll need in order to complete your motorcycle registration renewal include:

  • Your current, updated address.
  • Your license plate number.
  • Payment of your registration fees.

Depending on the type of bike you have, you may also need to complete the necessary motorcycle inspections when you renew your motorcycle registration. 

Washington Motorcycle Insurance

In addition to renewing your motorcycle registration, you’ll also want to make sure that your motorcycle insurance policy is up to date. 

Your annual registration renewal is a great time to compare motorcycle insurance quotes and check for cheaper rates

For more information about Washington motorcycle registration and registration renewals, check out the official DOL website at: https://www.dol.wa.gov/ 

Need more information? Check out our overview of the requirements for motorcycle titles and registrations in Washington.

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Content Editor: Ethan Orenstein

Ethan is not just any motorcycle enthusiast. With a decade of experience riding, maintaining, and restoring a range of motorcycles, Ethan brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Many of the tips and tricks shared on this site are born from hours spent wrenching on personal bikes. Paired with his experience as a journalist covering DMV & insurance topics, MotorcycleZombies.com is a must-visit site for any home-mechanic. Every article has been carefully reviewed and edited to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and simplicity - all to help bring your bike back from the dead and onto the road.

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