Gifting a car is a great way to show someone you care and is a thoughtful gift for any occasion. However, in Washington State, the process of gifting a car is slightly different than in other states. If you’re looking to gift a car to someone in Washington State, here are some tips to help make the process easier.

Check the Vehicle Title

Before gifting a car to someone in Washington State, it’s important to check the vehicle title. If the vehicle title is not in the gifter’s name, they will not be able to gift the car. If the title is in the gifter’s name, they will need to sign the title and have it notarized.

Apply for a Title Transfer

Once the title is signed and notarized, the gifter will need to apply for a title transfer with the Washington State Department of Licensing. The application will need to include the gifter’s name, the recipient’s name, the vehicle’s make, model, year, and VIN. It’s important to note that the title transfer fee is $15.

Pay the Sales Tax

The next step in gifting a car in Washington State is to pay the sales tax. The gifter will be responsible for paying the sales tax at the time of the title transfer. The sales tax rate in Washington State is 6.5%.

Provide the Recipient with the Necessary Paperwork

Once the title transfer and sales tax are complete, the gifter will need to provide the recipient with the necessary paperwork. This includes the signed title, the title transfer receipt, and the sales tax receipt. The recipient will need these documents in order to register the vehicle in their name.

Registration and Insurance

The final step in gifting a car in Washington State is for the recipient to register the vehicle and obtain insurance. The recipient will need to visit a local Department of Licensing office to register the vehicle and obtain a new license plate. The recipient will also need to obtain auto insurance for the vehicle in order to legally drive it in the state of Washington.

Gifting a car in Washington State is a great way to show someone you care. By following the steps outlined above, the gifter can ensure that the process is done correctly and legally. With the necessary paperwork in hand, the recipient will be able to register the vehicle and legally drive it in the state of Washington.