Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Used Car in Washington
1. Research the Vehicle
Start by researching the type of vehicle you want to buy. Look at factors such as make, model, price, mileage, and condition. Websites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds can help you determine a fair price for a used car.
2. Obtain a Vehicle History Report
Before purchasing a used car, obtain a vehicle history report using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). This report will provide information about the car's previous accidents, title status, and odometer readings. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can give you a comprehensive report.
3. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Once you’ve found a vehicle you’re interested in, get a pre-purchase inspection by a certified mechanic. This inspection ensures that there are no hidden mechanical issues that could be expensive to fix.
Learn more about pre-purchase inspections here.
4. Test Drive the Vehicle
Always test drive the vehicle to ensure it operates smoothly. Pay attention to the car's handling, brakes, acceleration, and any unusual noises.
What to look for in a test drive.
5. Negotiate the Price
After the inspection and test drive, negotiate the price based on your findings. Be prepared with research on the car’s market value from trusted resources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. Negotiating can help you save money, especially if there are minor issues that need repair.
Tips for negotiating here.
6. Check for Recalls
It’s important to check if the vehicle has any outstanding recalls. You can check this information using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database.
Check recalls here.
7. Complete the Paperwork
Ensure that the seller provides you with the title, bill of sale, and other required documents. In Washington, you’ll also need an odometer disclosure statement for vehicles under 10 years old.
Washington DOL Title Transfer Information.
8. Pay Sales Tax and Fees
In Washington, you’ll need to pay sales tax when transferring the title into your name. The amount of tax you pay is based on the vehicle's purchase price or fair market value. You may also need to pay additional registration fees.
Calculate sales tax here.
9. Transfer the Title
Submit the signed title and other required paperwork to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) to transfer ownership into your name. You must do this within 15 days of purchasing the vehicle to avoid penalties.
Transfer your title here.
10. Obtain Insurance
Before driving your newly purchased vehicle, you must obtain car insurance as required by Washington law. Make sure to shop around for the best rates and coverage options.
Learn more about Washington car insurance requirements.
11. Register the Vehicle
You need to register the vehicle in your name with the Washington DOL within 30 days. You’ll need to pay the necessary registration fees and provide proof of insurance.
Register your vehicle here.
12. Keep Maintenance Records
Once you own the vehicle, keep all maintenance records. This not only helps you maintain the car’s value but also ensures you’re up to date with necessary repairs and services.
Find a maintenance schedule here.
Fees for Buying a Used Car in Washington
1. Sales Tax
Washington charges a state sales tax on the purchase of used vehicles. The tax rate varies depending on the location but typically ranges from 6.5% to 10%. The sales tax is calculated based on the vehicle’s sale price or the fair market value if the price is below market standards.
Sales tax information here.
2. Vehicle Title Transfer Fee
When you buy a used car, you must pay a title transfer fee to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). As of 2024, the title transfer fee is $15. This fee is required to officially transfer ownership of the vehicle to your name.
Title transfer details here.
3. Registration Fees
You’ll also need to pay vehicle registration fees when buying a used car. These fees vary based on the type of vehicle and where you live. In general, registration fees in Washington include:
- Basic vehicle registration: $30
- License service fee: $0.75
- Filing fee: $4.50
- Additional regional or local fees depending on your location.
Learn more about registration fees here.
4. Vehicle Emission Testing Fee (If Applicable)
While most areas in Washington have discontinued mandatory emission testing as of 2020, you should verify if any specific region or the vehicle itself may still require it. If applicable, the testing fee ranges from $15 to $25.
Emission test information here.
5. Use Tax (If Applicable)
If you purchase a vehicle from a private party and do not pay sales tax, you will need to pay a use tax. The use tax is generally the same rate as sales tax and is calculated based on the vehicle’s fair market value.
Use tax details here.
6. Service Fees (Dealer Purchases Only)
If you purchase a vehicle from a dealership, they may charge additional fees, including documentation fees (or 'doc fees'). These fees cover the processing of paperwork and can range from $150 to $200, depending on the dealer.
7. License Plate Fees
If the used vehicle you purchase needs new plates, you will be charged for a license plate fee. This fee can range from $10 to $50, depending on the type of plates you select.
License plate options and fees here.
8. Motor Vehicle Excise Tax (If Applicable)
Some areas of Washington, such as within the Sound Transit District, may charge a Motor Vehicle Excise Tax (MVET) based on the value of your vehicle. This tax helps fund public transportation projects.
Comprehensive FAQ About Buying a Used Car in Washington
1. What Kind of Insurance Does My Used Car Need?
In Washington, it is mandatory to carry liability insurance when driving a vehicle, including used cars. Liability insurance covers damages and injuries to others if you are at fault in an accident. The minimum liability coverage requirements are:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more people
- $10,000 for property damage
You may also choose to add comprehensive and collision coverage, which will cover damages to your vehicle in case of accidents, theft, or other incidents.
Learn more about car insurance in Washington.
2. How Can I Protect Myself When Buying a Used Car Privately?
When buying a used car privately, follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Meet in a public place: Arrange to meet the seller in a public, well-lit area.
- Check the car’s history: Use the VIN to get a vehicle history report from services like Carfax or AutoCheck.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have the car inspected by a certified mechanic before buying.
- Verify the title: Ensure that the title is clear and in the seller's name with no liens.
- Test drive: Test drive the vehicle to check for any issues.
- Bill of Sale: Ensure that both parties sign a bill of sale detailing the terms of the sale.
More tips on buying used cars safely.
3. Is Buying a Car Privately with Cash a Good Idea?
Buying a car privately with cash can be a good idea, but there are some precautions to take:
- Pros: You can avoid financing fees and interest, and cash transactions are quick.
- Cons: There is no record of payment unless you create one, and carrying large sums of cash can be risky.
To minimize risks, use a cashier’s check or meet at your bank to complete the transaction. Make sure to get a receipt or bill of sale from the seller as proof of payment.
More about buying a car privately.
4. What Are Temporary Tags?
Temporary tags are issued when you buy a car, allowing you to drive it legally until you receive permanent plates and registration. In Washington, temporary tags are typically valid for up to 45 days. You will need to apply for permanent registration during this time frame.
More information about temporary tags.
