RCW 46.04.010
Scope and construction of terms.
Terms used in this title shall have the meaning given to them in this chapter except where otherwise defined, and unless where used the context thereof shall clearly indicate to the contrary.
Words and phrases used herein in the past, present or future tense shall include the past, present and future tenses; words and phrases used herein in the masculine, feminine or neuter gender shall include the masculine, feminine and neuter genders; and words and phrases used herein in the singular or plural shall include the singular and plural; unless the context thereof shall indicate to the contrary.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.010
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 2
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.011
4-H license plates.
"4-H license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the "4-H" logo.
[
2012 c 65 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2012 c 65:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.013
Affidavit of loss.
"Affidavit of loss" means a written statement confirming that the certificate of title, registration certificate, gross weight license, validation tab, or decal has been lost, stolen, destroyed, or mutilated. The statement must be in a form prescribed by the director.
[
2010 c 161 s 101
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2010 c 161:
"Except for section 1020 of this act, this act takes effect July 1, 2011." [
2010 c 161 s 1238
.]
Intent
—
2010 c 161:
"This act is intended to streamline and make technical amendments to certain codified statutes that deal with vehicle and vessel registration and title. Any statutory changes made by this act should be interpreted as technical in nature and not be interpreted to have any substantive policy or legal implications." [
2010 c 161 s 1
.]
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
"The senate and house of representatives transportation committees, in consultation with the office of the code reviser, shall prepare legislation for the 2011 regular legislative session that reconciles and conforms amendments made during the 2010 legislative session in this act." [
2010 c 161 s 1201
.]
RCW 46.04.014
Agent.
"Agent," for the purposes of entering into the standard contract required under RCW 46.01.140
(1), means any county auditor or other individual, government, or business entity other than a subagent that is appointed to carry out vehicle registration and certificate of title functions for the department.
[
2010 c 161 s 102
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.015
Alcohol concentration.
"Alcohol concentration" means (1) grams of alcohol per two hundred ten liters of a person's breath, or (2) grams of alcohol per one hundred milliliters of a person's blood.
[
1995 c 332 s 17
;
1994 c 275 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1995 c 332:
See notes following RCW 46.20.308
.
Short title
—
1994 c 275:
"This act shall be known as the "1994 Omnibus Drunk Driving Act.""  [
1994 c 275 s 43
.]
Effective date
—
1994 c 275:
"This act shall take effect July 1, 1994." [
1994 c 275 s 46
.]
RCW 46.04.020
Alley.
"Alley" means a public highway not designed for general travel and used primarily as a means of access to the rear of residences and business establishments.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.020
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 3
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.022
Amateur radio operator license plates.
"Amateur radio operator license plates" means special license plates displaying amateur radio call letters assigned by the federal communications commission.
[
2010 c 161 s 103
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.028
Armed forces license plate collection.
"Armed forces license plate collection" means the collection of six separate license plate designs issued under RCW 46.18.210
. Each license plate design displays a symbol representing one of the five branches of the armed forces, and one representing the national guard.
[
2010 c 161 s 104
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.030
Arterial highway.
"Arterial highway" means every public highway, or portion thereof, designated as such by proper authority.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.030
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 4
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.040
Authorized emergency vehicle.
"Authorized emergency vehicle" means any vehicle of any fire department, police department, sheriff's office, coroner, prosecuting attorney, Washington state patrol, ambulance service, public or private, which need not be classified, registered or authorized by the state patrol, or any other vehicle authorized in writing by the state patrol.
[
1987 c 330 s 701
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.040
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 5
;
1953 c 40 s 1
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Construction
—
Application of rules
—
Severability
—
1987 c 330:
See notes following RCW 28B.12.050
.
RCW 46.04.050
Auto stage.
"Auto stage" means any motor vehicle used for the purpose of carrying passengers together with incidental baggage and freight or either, on a regular schedule of time and rates: PROVIDED, That no motor vehicle shall be considered to be an auto stage where substantially the entire route traveled by such vehicle is within the corporate limits of any city or town or the corporate limits of any adjoining cities or towns.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.050
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 6
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 1, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.060
Axle.
"Axle" means structure or structures in the same or approximately the same transverse plane with a vehicle supported by wheels and on which or with which such wheels revolve.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.060
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 7
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.071
Bicycle.
"Bicycle" means every device propelled solely by human power, or an electric-assisted bicycle as defined in RCW 46.04.169, upon which a person or persons may ride, having two tandem wheels either of which is sixteen inches or more in diameter, or three wheels, any one of which is twenty inches or more in diameter.
[
2019 c 403 s 2
;
2018 c 60 s 2
;
1982 c 55 s 4
;
1965 ex.s. c 155 s 86
.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Intent
—
2019 c 403:
"The legislature finds that a number of the collision types that have resulted in a high number of serious injuries and deaths of vulnerable roadway users can be associated with certain types of traffic infractions. To address the heightened risk to vulnerable roadway users when violations of these traffic infractions occur, the legislature intends to: (1) Introduce an additional fine as a penalty for drivers who commit these violations against a vulnerable roadway user; (2) modify when certain vulnerable roadway users may be passed by motor vehicles; and (3) clarify when and how pedestrians and bicyclists may use the roadway. To increase enforcement of all traffic infractions and offenses committed against vulnerable roadway users, the legislature intends for revenue that is collected from the new fine to be dedicated to the education of law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judges about opportunities for the enforcement of traffic violations committed against vulnerable roadway users, with any remaining funds to be used to increase awareness by the public of the risks and penalties associated with these traffic violations. The goals of this act are to achieve a reduction in the frequency with which drivers violate traffic laws that endanger vulnerable roadway users and to encourage safe sharing of the roadway by drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other vulnerable roadway users." [
2019 c 403 s 1
.]
Effective date
—
2019 c 403:
"This act takes effect January 1, 2020." [
2019 c 403 s 15
.]
RCW 46.04.077
Breast cancer awareness license plates.
"Breast cancer awareness license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing breast cancer awareness.
[
2014 c 77 s 6
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2014 c 77:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.079
Business day.
"Business day" means Monday through Friday and excludes Saturday, Sunday, and state and federal holidays.
[
2010 c 161 s 106
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.080
Business district.
"Business district" means the territory contiguous to and including a highway when within any six hundred feet along such highway there are buildings in use for business or industrial purposes, including but not limited to hotels, banks, or office buildings, railroad stations, and public buildings which occupy at least three hundred feet of frontage on one side or three hundred feet collectively on both sides of the highway.
[
1975 c 62 s 2
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.080
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 9
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.083
Cab and chassis.
"Cab and chassis" means an incomplete vehicle manufactured and sold with only a cab, frame, and running gear.
[
2010 c 161 s 107
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.085
Camper.
"Camper" means a structure designed to be mounted upon a motor vehicle which provides facilities for human habitation or for temporary outdoor or recreational lodging and which is five feet or more in overall length and five feet or more in height from its floor to its ceiling when fully extended, but shall not include motor homes as defined in RCW 46.04.305
.
[
1971 ex.s. c 231 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1971 ex.s. c 231:
See note following RCW 46.01.130
.
RCW 46.04.090
Cancel.
"Cancel," in all its forms, means invalidation indefinitely.
[
1979 c 61 s 1
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.090
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 10
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.092
Cannabis.
"Cannabis," except as otherwise provided in this title, has the meaning provided in RCW 69.50.101
.
[
2022 c 16 s 37
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Finding
—
2022 c 16:
See note following RCW 69.50.101
.
RCW 46.04.094
Cargo extension.
"Cargo extension" means a device that connects to the left and right side of a motor home or travel trailer frame and (1) becomes part of the frame, (2) does not pivot on a hitch, and (3) has an axle with two wheels, acting as a tag axle, to safely carry the weight of the cargo.
[
2016 c 22 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
2016 c 22:
"It is the intent of the legislature to ensure that a cargo-carrying extension on the rear of a motor home or travel trailer must safely carry the weight of the cargo by requiring, if necessary, that the unit have an axle and two wheels, acting as a tag axle, to accommodate the weight and size of the cargo." [
2016 c 22 s 1
.]
Effective date
—
2016 c 22:
"This act takes effect July 1, 2016." [
2016 c 22 s 8
.]
RCW 46.04.100
Center line.
"Center line" means the line, marked or unmarked, parallel to and equidistant from the sides of a two-way traffic roadway of a highway except where otherwise indicated by painted lines or markers.
[
1975 c 62 s 3
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.100
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 11
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.110
Center of intersection.
"Center of intersection" means the point of intersection of the center lines of the roadway of intersecting public highways.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.110
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 12
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.115
Chauffeur.
"Chauffeur" means a person authorized by the department under this title to drive a limousine, and, if operating in a port district that regulates limousines under RCW 46.72A.030
(2), meets the licensing requirements of that port district.
[
1996 c 87 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.118
Circular intersection.
(1) "Circular intersection" means an intersection characterized by a circulatory roadway, generally circular in design, located in the center of the intersection. A circular intersection encompasses the area bounded by the outermost curb line or, if there is no curb, the edge of the pavement, and includes crosswalks on any entering or exiting roadway.
(2) "Circular intersection" includes:
(a) Roundabouts;
(b) Rotaries; and
(c) Traffic circles.
[
2020 c 199 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.120
City street.
"City street" means every public highway, or part thereof located within the limits of cities and towns, except alleys.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.120
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 13
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.123
Collectible vehicle.
"Collectible vehicle" means a vehicle that complies with the following:
(1) Is of unique or rare design, of limited production, and an object of curiosity;
(2) Is maintained primarily for use in car club activities, exhibitions, parades, or other functions of public interest or for a private collection, and is used only infrequently for other purposes; and
(3) Has collectible vehicle or classic automobile insurance coverage that restricts the collectible vehicle mileage or use, or both, and requires the owner to have another vehicle for personal use.
[
2014 c 72 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.125
Collector.
"Collector" means the owner of one or more vehicles described in RCW 46.18.220
(1) who collects, purchases, acquires, trades, or disposes of the vehicle or parts of it, for his or her personal use, in order to preserve, restore, and maintain the vehicle for hobby or historical purposes.
[
2010 c 161 s 108
;
1996 c 225 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
Finding
—
1996 c 225:
"The legislature finds and declares that constructive leisure pursuits by Washington citizens is most important. This act is intended to encourage responsible participation in the hobby of collecting, preserving, restoring, and maintaining motor vehicles of historic and special interest, which hobby contributes to the enjoyment of the citizens and the preservation of Washington's automotive memorabilia." [
1996 c 225 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.126
Collector vehicle.
"Collector vehicle" means any motor vehicle or travel trailer that is at least thirty years old.
[
2015 c 200 s 4
;
2009 c 142 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2015 c 200:
See note following RCW 46.16A.428
.
RCW 46.04.1261
Collector vehicle license plate.
"Collector vehicle license plate" means a special license plate that may be assigned to a vehicle that is more than thirty years old.
[
2010 c 161 s 109
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.127
Collegiate license plates.
"Collegiate license plates" means license plates that display a depiction of the name and mascot or symbol of a state university, regional university, or state college as defined in RCW 28B.10.016
.
[
1994 c 194 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.130
Combination of vehicles.
"Combination of vehicles" means every combination of motor vehicle and motor vehicle, motor vehicle and trailer or motor vehicle and semitrailer.
[
1963 c 154 s 26
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.130
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 14
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1963 c 154:
See note following RCW 46.37.010
.
RCW 46.04.136
Commercial trailer.
"Commercial trailer" means a trailer that is principally used to transport commodities, merchandise, produce, freight, or animals.
[
2010 c 161 s 110
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.140
Commercial vehicle.
"Commercial vehicle" means any vehicle the principal use of which is the transportation of commodities, merchandise, produce, freight, animals, or passengers for hire.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.140
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 15
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.142
Confidential license plates.
"Confidential license plates" and "undercover license plates" mean standard issue license plates assigned to vehicles owned or operated by public agencies. These license plates are used as specifically authorized under RCW 46.08.066
.
[
2010 c 161 s 111
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.143
Converter gear.
"Converter gear" means an auxiliary axle, booster axle, dolly, or jeep axle.
[
2010 c 161 s 112
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.150
County road.
"County road" means every public highway or part thereof, outside the limits of cities and towns and which has not been designated as a state highway.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.150
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 16
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.160
Crosswalk.
"Crosswalk" means the portion of the roadway between the intersection area and a prolongation or connection of the farthest sidewalk line or in the event there are no sidewalks then between the intersection area and a line ten feet therefrom, except as modified by a marked crosswalk.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.160
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 17
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.161
Custom vehicle.
"Custom vehicle" means any motor vehicle that:
(1) Is at least thirty years old and of a model year after 1948 or was manufactured to resemble a vehicle at least thirty years old and of a model year after 1948; and
(2) Has alterations to one or more of the major component parts listed in RCW 46.80.010
that change the appearance or performance of the vehicle from the original manufacturer's design or has a body constructed from nonoriginal materials.
[
2011 c 114 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2011 c 114:
See note following RCW 46.04.572
.
RCW 46.04.1615
Data services.
"Data services" means the practice of providing data sets to governmental entities and businesses, as authorized or required by law.
[
2021 c 93 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.162
Department.
The term "department" shall mean the department of licensing unless a different department is specified.
[
1979 c 158 s 126
;
1975 c 25 s 4
. Formerly RCW 46.04.690
.]
RCW 46.04.163
Director.
The term "director" shall mean the director of licensing unless the director of a different department of government is specified.
[
1979 c 158 s 127
;
1975 c 25 s 5
. Formerly RCW 46.04.695
.]
RCW 46.04.164
Disabled American veteran license plates.
"Disabled American veteran license plates" means special license plates issued to a veteran, as defined in RCW 41.04.007, who meets the requirements provided in RCW 46.18.235
.
[
2010 c 161 s 113
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.1640
Donate life license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Donate life license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that displays the donate life logo.
[
2025 c 385 s 20
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.1641
Drifting.
"Drifting" means a driver intentionally oversteers a vehicle, causing loss of traction, while maneuvering a vehicle in a turning direction.
[
2023 c 283 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2023 c 283:
See note following RCW 46.04.367
.
RCW 46.04.165
Driveaway-towaway operation.
"Driveaway-towaway operation" means any operation in which any motor vehicle, trailer or semitrailer, singly or in combination, new or used, constitutes the commodity being transported when one set or more wheels of any such vehicle are on the roadway during the course of transportation, whether or not any such vehicle furnishes the motive power.
[
1963 c 154 s 27
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1963 c 154:
See note following RCW 46.37.010
.
RCW 46.04.167
Driver education.
Whenever the term "driver education" is used in the code, it shall be defined to mean "traffic safety education".
[
1969 ex.s. c 218 s 12
. Formerly RCW 46.04.700
.]
RCW 46.04.168
Driving privilege withheld.
"Driving privilege withheld" means that the department has revoked, suspended, or denied a person's Washington state driver's license, permit to drive, driving privilege, or nonresident driving privilege.
[
1999 c 6 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
1999 c 6:
"(1) This act is intended to edit some of the statutes relating to driver's licenses in order to make those statutes more comprehensible to the citizenry of the state of Washington. The legislature does not intend to make substantive changes in the meaning, interpretation, court construction, or constitutionality of any provision of chapter
46.20
RCW or other statutory provisions or rules adopted under those provisions.
(2) This act is technical in nature and does not terminate or in any way modify any rights, proceedings, or liabilities, civil or criminal, that exist on July 25, 1999." [
1999 c 6 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.169
Electric-assisted bicycle
—
Class 1 electric-assisted bicycle
—
Class 2 electric-assisted bicycle
—
Class 3 electric-assisted bicycle.
"Electric-assisted bicycle" means a bicycle with two or three wheels, a saddle, fully operative pedals for human propulsion, and an electric motor. The electric-assisted bicycle's electric motor must have a power output of no more than seven hundred fifty watts. The electric-assisted bicycle must meet the requirements of one of the following three classifications:
(1) "Class 1 electric-assisted bicycle" means an electric-assisted bicycle in which the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of twenty miles per hour;
(2) "Class 2 electric-assisted bicycle" means an electric-assisted bicycle in which the motor may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle and is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of twenty miles per hour; or
(3) "Class 3 electric-assisted bicycle" means an electric-assisted bicycle in which the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of twenty-eight miles per hour and is equipped with a speedometer.
[
2018 c 60 s 1
;
1997 c 328 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.1695
Electric personal assistive mobility device (EPAMD).
"Electric personal assistive mobility device" (EPAMD) means (1) a self-balancing device with two wheels not in tandem, designed to transport only one person by an electric propulsion system with an average power of seven hundred fifty watts (one horsepower) having a maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a propulsion system while ridden by an operator weighing one hundred seventy pounds, of less than twenty miles per hour or (2) a self-balancing device with one wheel designed to transport only one person by an electric propulsion system with an average power of two thousand watts (two and two-thirds horsepower) having a maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a propulsion system, of less than twenty miles per hour.
[
2015 c 145 s 2
;
2002 c 247 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
2015 c 145:
"The legislature finds that at least two companies in Washington have developed a one-wheeled device for people to use to travel from place to place. These devices are unregulated and can travel wherever and however they like. By adding these devices to the definition of an electric personal assistive mobility device, they become regulated and local communities can determine locations that are appropriate for their use." [
2015 c 145 s 1
.]
Legislative review
—
2002 c 247:
"The legislature shall review the provisions of this act and make any necessary changes by July 1, 2005." [
2002 c 247 s 9
.]
RCW 46.04.1697
Electronic commerce.
"Electronic commerce" may include, but is not limited to, transactions conducted over the Internet or by telephone or other electronic means.
[
2004 c 249 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.1698
Empty scale weight.
"Empty scale weight" means the weight of a vehicle as it stands without a load.
[
2010 c 161 s 114
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.1699
Endangered wildlife license plates.
"Endangered wildlife license plates" means special license plates that display a symbol or artwork symbolizing endangered wildlife in Washington state.
[
2010 c 161 s 115
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.16991
Excessive speeding.
(Effective January 1, 2029.)
"Excessive speeding" means traveling at:
(1) 10 miles per hour or greater in excess of the posted speed limit, if the posted speed limit is 40 miles per hour or less; and
(2) 20 miles per hour or greater in excess of the posted speed limit, if the posted speed limit is greater than 40 miles per hour.
[
2025 c 228 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Finding
—
Short title
—
Effective date
—
2025 c 228:
See notes following RCW 46.20.760
.
RCW 46.04.170
Explosives.
"Explosives" means any chemical compound or mechanical mixture that is commonly used or intended for the purpose of producing an explosion, and which contains any oxidizing or combustible units or other ingredients in such proportions, quantities or packing that an ignition by fire, by friction, by concussion, by percussion or by detonation of any part of the compound mixture may cause such a sudden generation of highly heated gases that the resultant gaseous pressures are capable of producing destructible effects on contiguous objects or of destroying life or limb.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.170
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 18
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part. Cf.
1951 c 102 s 3
.]
RCW 46.04.174
Facial recognition matching system.
"Facial recognition matching system" means a system that compares the biometric template derived from an image of an applicant or holder of a driver's license, permit, or identicard with the biometric templates derived from the images in the department's negative file.
[
2012 c 80 s 3
.]
RCW 46.04.180
Farm tractor.
"Farm tractor" means every motor vehicle designed and used primarily as a farm implement for drawing plows, mowing machines, and other implements of husbandry.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.180
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 19
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.181
Farm vehicle.
"Farm vehicle" means any vehicle other than a farm tractor or farm implement which is: (1) Designed and/or used primarily in agricultural pursuits on farms for the purpose of transporting machinery, equipment, implements, farm products, supplies and/or farm labor thereon and is only incidentally operated on or moved along public highways for the purpose of going from one farm to another or between locations supporting farming operations; or (2) for purposes of RCW 46.25.050, used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery, farm supplies, or any combination of these materials to or from a farm.
[
2013 c 299 s 3
;
2012 c 130 s 1
;
1967 c 202 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.182
Farmer.
"Farmer" means any person, firm, partnership or corporation engaged in farming. If a person, firm, partnership or corporation is engaged in activities in addition to that of farming, the definition shall only apply to that portion of the activity that is defined as farming in RCW 46.04.183
.
[
1969 ex.s. c 281 s 58
.]
RCW 46.04.183
Farming.
"Farming" means the cultivation and tillage of the soil, dairying, the production, cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural or horticultural commodities (except forestry or forestry operations), the raising of livestock, bees, fur-bearing animals, or poultry, and any practices performed on a farm as an incident to or in conjunction with such farming operations.
[
1969 ex.s. c 281 s 59
.]
RCW 46.04.184
Firefighter memorial license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Firefighter memorial license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the Maltese cross with the words "never forget."
[
2025 c 385 s 19
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.186
Fixed load vehicle.
"Fixed load vehicle" means a commercial vehicle that has a structure or machinery permanently attached such as, but not limited to, an air compressor, a bunk house, a conveyor, a cook house, a donkey engine, a hoist, a rock crusher, a tool house, or a well drilling machine. Fixed load vehicles are not capable of carrying any additional load other than the structure or machinery permanently attached.
[
2010 c 161 s 116
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.187
Flammable liquid.
"Flammable liquid" means any liquid which has a flash point of 70° Fahrenheit, or less, as determined by a Tagliabue or equivalent closed cup test device.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.210
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 22
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part. Cf.
1951 c 102 s 3
. Formerly RCW 46.04.210
.]
RCW 46.04.190
For hire vehicle.
"For hire vehicle" means any motor vehicle used for the transportation of persons for compensation, except auto stages and ride-sharing vehicles.
[
1979 c 111 s 13
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.190
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 20
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1979 c 111:
See note following RCW 46.74.010
.
Ride sharing: Chapter
46.74
RCW.
RCW 46.04.192
Former prisoner of war license plates.
"Former prisoner of war license plates" means special license plates that may be issued to former prisoners of war as authorized under RCW 46.18.235
.
[
2010 c 161 s 117
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.193
Fred Hutch license plates.
"Fred Hutch license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the logo of the Fred Hutchinson cancer research center.
[
2017 c 25 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2017 c 25:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.194
Garbage truck.
"Garbage truck" means a truck specially designed and used exclusively for garbage or refuse operations.
[
1983 c 68 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.1945
Golf cart.
"Golf cart" means a gas-powered or electric-powered four-wheeled vehicle originally designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting purposes and has a speed attainable in one mile of not more than twenty miles per hour. A golf cart is not a nonhighway vehicle or off-road vehicle as defined in RCW 46.04.365
.
[
2011 c 171 s 12
;
2010 c 217 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.1951
Gonzaga University alumni association license plates.
"Gonzaga University alumni association license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of the Gonzaga University alumni association in Washington state.
[
2011 c 171 s 13
;
2005 c 85 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.1953
Gross vehicle weight rating.
"Gross vehicle weight rating" means the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum load weight of a single vehicle.
[
2010 c 161 s 118
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.196
Helping Kids Speak license plates.
"Helping Kids Speak license plates" means license plates that display a symbol of 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 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.197
Highway.
Highway means the entire width between the boundary lines of every way publicly maintained when any part thereof is open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel.
[
1965 ex.s. c 155 s 87
. Formerly RCW 46.04.431
.]
RCW 46.04.1971
Historical throwback license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Historical throwback license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display white lettering on a black background in a style similar to historical license plates issued in the early 20th century.
[
2025 c 385 s 22
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.199
Horseless carriage license plate.
(Effective until January 15, 2026.)
"Horseless carriage license plate" is a special license plate that may be assigned to a vehicle that is at least forty years old.
[
2017 c 147 s 1
;
2010 c 161 s 120
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
PDF
RCW 46.04.199
Horseless carriage license plate.
(Effective January 15, 2026.)
"Horseless carriage license plate" is a special license plate that may be assigned to a vehicle manufactured or built before January 1, 1916, and meets the qualifications listed in RCW 46.18.255
.
[
2025 c 332 s 2
;
2017 c 147 s 1
;
2010 c 161 s 120
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 332:
See note following RCW 46.18.255
.
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.200
Hours of darkness.
"Hours of darkness" means the hours from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, and any other time when persons or objects may not be clearly discernible at a distance of five hundred feet.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.200
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 21
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.204
Hybrid motor vehicle.
"Hybrid motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that uses multiple power sources or fuel types for propulsion and meets the federal definition of a hybrid motor vehicle.
[
2010 c 161 s 121
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.209
Identity information.
(1) "Identity information" means information that identifies an individual, or may be used to determine the identity of an individual, including:
(a) Federal tax identification number or employer identification number;
(b) Residential and mailing address, but not the five-digit zip code;
(c) Email address;
(d) Telephone number;
(e) Registered and legal vehicle owner name;
(f) Gender;
(g) Place of birth;
(h) Voter information status; and
(i) Selective service information.
(2) "Personal information" has the same meaning as in RCW 42.56.590
.
[
2021 c 93 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.215
Ignition interlock device.
"Ignition interlock device" means breath alcohol analyzing ignition equipment or other biological or technical device certified in conformance with RCW 43.43.395
and rules adopted by the state patrol and designed to prevent a motor vehicle from being operated by a person who has consumed an alcoholic beverage.
[
2010 c 268 s 1
;
2005 c 200 s 1
;
1997 c 229 s 9
;
1994 c 275 s 23
;
1987 c 247 s 3
. Formerly RCW 46.20.730
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1997 c 229:
See note following RCW 10.05.090
.
Short title
—
Effective date
—
1994 c 275:
See notes following RCW 46.04.015
.
RCW 46.04.217
Ignition interlock driver's license.
"Ignition interlock driver's license" means a permit issued to a person by the department that allows the person to operate a noncommercial motor vehicle with an ignition interlock device while the person's regular driver's license is suspended, revoked, or denied.
[
2008 c 282 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.218
Intelligent speed assistance device.
(Effective January 1, 2029.)
"Intelligent speed assistance device" means a technical device designed to be installed within a motor vehicle to actively monitor and prevent the driver from exceeding a preset limit. "Intelligent speed assistance device" does not include any technology that is provided by the vehicle manufacturer as a component of a new motor vehicle and that controls or affects the speed of a motor vehicle.
[
2025 c 228 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Finding
—
Short title
—
Effective date
—
2025 c 228:
See notes following RCW 46.20.760
.
RCW 46.04.220
Intersection area.
(1) "Intersection area" means the area embraced within the prolongation or connection of the lateral curb lines, or, if none then the lateral boundary lines of the roadways of two or more highways which join one another at, or approximately at, right angles, or the area within which vehicles traveling upon different highways joining at any other angle may come in conflict.
(2) Where a highway includes two roadways thirty feet or more apart, then every crossing of each roadway of such divided highway by an intersecting highway shall be regarded as a separate intersection. In the event such intersecting highway also includes two roadways thirty feet or more apart, then every crossing of two roadways of such highways shall be regarded as a separate intersection.
(3) The junction of an alley with a street or highway shall not constitute an intersection.
[
1975 c 62 s 4
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.220
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 23
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.240
Intersection control area.
"Intersection control area" means intersection area, together with such modification of the adjacent roadway area as results from the arc of curb corners and together with any marked or unmarked crosswalks adjacent to the intersection.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.240
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 25
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.249
Keep Kids Safe license plates.
"Keep Kids Safe license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display artwork recognizing efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect in Washington state.
[
2011 c 171 s 14
;
2005 c 53 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.2491
Keep Washington evergreen license plate.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Keep Washington evergreen license plate" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display green lettering on a white background in a style similar to the license plates issued by the department in the 1970s.
[
2025 c 385 s 9
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.251
Kit vehicle.
"Kit vehicle" means a passenger car or light truck assembled from a manufactured kit, and is either (1) a complete kit consisting of a prefabricated body and chassis used to construct a new vehicle, or (2) a kit consisting of a prefabricated body to be mounted on an existing vehicle chassis and drivetrain, commonly referred to as a donor vehicle.
[
1996 c 225 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
1996 c 225:
See note following RCW 46.04.125
.
RCW 46.04.260
Laned highway.
"Laned highway" means a highway the roadway of which is divided into clearly marked lanes for vehicular traffic.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.260
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 27
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.265
Law enforcement memorial license plates.
"Law enforcement memorial license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol honoring law enforcement officers in Washington killed in the line of duty.
[
2011 c 171 s 15
;
2004 c 221 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.270
Legal owner.
"Legal owner" means a person having a security interest in a vehicle perfected in accordance with chapter
46.12
RCW or the registered owner of a vehicle unencumbered by a security interest or the lessor of a vehicle unencumbered by a security interest.
[
1975 c 25 s 1
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.270
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 28
; prior: 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.2700
LeMay-America's car museum license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"LeMay-America's Car Museum license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the LeMay-America's car museum logo, name, or related image.
[
2025 c 385 s 11
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.2701
License plate.
"License plate" means a plate that may be issued to a vehicle owner by the department or by an authorized entity for vehicle licensing or identification purposes. "License plates" do not include: (1) Temporary license plates; or (2) metal tags issued for the purposes of licensing wheeled all-terrain vehicles.
[
2022 c 132 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2022 c 132:
"This act takes effect July 1, 2023." [
2022 c 132 s 8
.]
RCW 46.04.271
Light truck.
"Light truck" means a motor vehicle manufactured as a truck with a declared gross weight of twelve thousand pounds or less.
[
2010 c 161 s 122
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.272
Lightweight stud.
(1) "Lightweight stud" means a stud intended for installation and use in a vehicle tire. As used in this title, this means a stud that is recommended by the manufacturer of the tire for the type and size of the tire and that:
(a) Weighs no more than 1.5 grams if the stud conforms to Tire Stud Manufacturing Institute (TSMI) stud size 14 or less;
(b) Weighs no more than 2.3 grams if the stud conforms to TSMI stud size 15 or 16; or
(c) Weighs no more than 3.0 grams if the stud conforms to TSMI stud size 17 or larger.
(2) A lightweight stud may contain any materials necessary to achieve the lighter weight.
(3) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to retractable studs as described in RCW 46.37.420
.
[
2007 c 140 s 1
;
1999 c 219 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.274
Limousine.
"Limousine" means a category of for hire, chauffeur-driven, unmetered, unmarked luxury motor vehicles. The director in consultation with the Washington state patrol will by rule define the categories of limousines.
[
2006 c 98 s 1
;
1996 c 87 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2006 c 98:
"This act takes effect November 1, 2006." [
2006 c 98 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.276
Limousine carrier.
"Limousine carrier" means a person engaged in the transportation of a person or group of persons, who, under a single contract, acquires, on a prearranged basis, the use of a limousine to travel to a specified destination or for a particular itinerary. The term "prearranged basis" refers to the manner in which the carrier dispatches vehicles.
[
1996 c 87 s 3
.]
RCW 46.04.280
Local authorities.
"Local authorities" includes every county, municipal, or other local public board or body having authority to adopt local police regulations under the Constitution and laws of this state.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.280
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 29
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.290
Marked crosswalk.
"Marked crosswalk" means any portion of a roadway distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface thereof.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.290
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 30
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.292
Market value threshold amount.
"Market value threshold amount" means an amount set by rule by the department that is used to determine, together with the age of the vehicle, whether vehicle certificates of title for vehicles aged six years through twenty years should be identified as having been previously destroyed or reported as an insurance total loss.
[
2010 c 161 s 123
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.294
Medal of Honor.
"Medal of Honor" means the Medal of Honor military decoration presented by the president of the United States, in the name of congress.
[
2014 c 181 s 4
.]
RCW 46.04.295
Medium-speed electric vehicle.
"Medium-speed electric vehicle" means a self-propelled, electrically powered four-wheeled motor vehicle, equipped with a roll cage or crush-proof body design, whose speed attainable in one mile is more than twenty-five miles per hour but not more than thirty-five miles per hour and otherwise meets or exceeds the federal regulations set forth in 49 C.F.R. Sec. 571.500.
[
2010 c 144 s 1
;
2007 c 510 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2007 c 510:
See note following RCW 46.04.320
.
RCW 46.04.300
Metal tire.
"Metal tire" includes every tire, the bearing surface of which in contact with the highway is wholly or partly of metal or other hard, nonresilient material.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.300
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 31
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.301
Military affiliate radio system license plates.
"Military affiliate radio system license plates" means special license plates displaying official military affiliate radio system call letters assigned by the United States department of defense.
[
2010 c 161 s 124
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.302
Mobile home, manufactured home.
"Mobile home" or "manufactured home" means a structure, designed and constructed to be transportable in one or more sections, and is built on a permanent chassis, and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities that include plumbing, heating, and electrical systems contained therein. The structure must comply with the national mobile home construction and safety standards act of 1974 as adopted by chapter
43.22
RCW if applicable. Manufactured home does not include a modular home. A structure which met the definition of a "manufactured home" at the time of manufacture is still considered to meet this definition notwithstanding that it is no longer transportable.
[
1993 c 154 s 1
. Prior:
1989 c 343 s 24
;
1989 c 337 s 1
;
1977 ex.s. c 22 s 1
;
1971 ex.s. c 231 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1989 c 343:
See RCW 65.20.950
.
Severability
—
1977 ex.s. c 22:
"If any section or provision of this 1977 amendatory act, or its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the section or provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [
1977 ex.s. c 22 s 10
.]
Effective date
—
1971 ex.s. c 231:
See note following RCW 46.01.130
.
RCW 46.04.303
Modular home.
"Modular home" means a factory-assembled structure designed primarily for use as a dwelling when connected to the required utilities that include plumbing, heating, and electrical systems contained therein, does not contain its own running gear, and must be mounted on a permanent foundation. A modular home does not include a mobile home or manufactured home.
[
1990 c 250 s 17
;
1971 ex.s. c 231 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1971 ex.s. c 231:
See note following RCW 46.01.130
.
RCW 46.04.304
Moped.
"Moped" means a motorized device designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground and having an electric or a liquid fuel motor with a cylinder displacement not exceeding fifty cubic centimeters which produces no more than two gross brake horsepower (developed by a prime mover, as measured by a brake applied to the driving shaft) that is capable of propelling the device at not more than thirty miles per hour on level ground.
[
2009 c 275 s 1
;
1990 c 250 s 18
;
1987 c 330 s 702
;
1979 ex.s. c 213 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Construction
—
Application of rules
—
Severability
—
1987 c 330:
See notes following RCW 28B.12.050
.
RCW 46.04.305
Motor homes.
"Motor homes" means motor vehicles originally designed, reconstructed, or permanently altered to provide facilities for human habitation, which include lodging and cooking or sewage disposal, and is enclosed within a solid body shell with the vehicle, but excludes a camper or like unit constructed separately and affixed to a motor vehicle.
[
1990 c 250 s 19
;
1971 ex.s. c 231 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1971 ex.s. c 231:
See note following RCW 46.01.130
.
RCW 46.04.310
Motor truck.
"Motor truck" means any motor vehicle designed or used for the transportation of commodities, merchandise, produce, freight, or animals.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.310
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 32
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.320
Motor vehicle.
(1) "Motor vehicle" means a vehicle that is self-propelled or a vehicle that is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires but not operated upon rails.
(2) "Motor vehicle" includes:
(a) A neighborhood electric vehicle as defined in RCW 46.04.357
;
(b) A medium-speed electric vehicle as defined in RCW 46.04.295
; and
(c) A golf cart for the purposes of chapter
46.61
RCW.
(3) "Motor vehicle" excludes:
(a) An electric personal assistive mobility device;
(b) A power wheelchair;
(c) A golf cart, except as provided in subsection (2) of this section;
(d) A moped, for the purposes of chapter
46.70
RCW; and
(e) A personal delivery device as defined in RCW 46.75.010
.
[
2019 c 214 s 6
;
2010 c 217 s 1
;
2007 c 510 s 1
. Prior:
2003 c 353 s 1
;
2003 c 141 s 2
;
2002 c 247 s 2
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.320
; prior:
1959 c 49 s 33
;
1955 c 384 s 10
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2019 c 214:
See note following RCW 46.75.010
.
Effective date
—
2007 c 510:
"This act takes effect August 1, 2007." [
2007 c 510 s 6
.]
Effective date
—
2003 c 353:
"This act takes effect August 1, 2003." [
2003 c 353 s 12
.]
Legislative review
—
2002 c 247:
See note following RCW 46.04.1695
.
RCW 46.04.330
Motorcycle.
"Motorcycle" means a motor vehicle designed to travel on not more than three wheels, not including any stabilizing conversion kits, on which the driver:
(1) Rides on a seat or saddle and the motor vehicle is designed to be steered with a handlebar; or
(2) Rides on a seat in a partially or completely enclosed seating area that is equipped with safety belts and the motor vehicle is designed to be steered with a steering wheel.
"Motorcycle" excludes a farm tractor, a power wheelchair, an electric personal assistive mobility device, a motorized foot scooter, an electric-assisted bicycle, and a moped.
[
2013 c 174 s 1
;
2009 c 275 s 2
;
2003 c 141 s 3
;
2002 c 247 s 3
;
1990 c 250 s 20
;
1979 ex.s. c 213 s 2
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.330
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 34
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; 1915 c 142 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
NOTES:
Legislative review
—
2002 c 247:
See note following RCW 46.04.1695
.
RCW 46.04.332
Motor-driven cycle.
"Motor-driven cycle" means every motorcycle, including every motor scooter, with a motor that produces not to exceed five brake horsepower (developed by a prime mover, as measured by a brake applied to the driving shaft). A motor-driven cycle does not include a moped, a power wheelchair, a motorized foot scooter, or an electric personal assistive mobility device.
[
2003 c 353 s 7
;
2003 c 141 s 4
;
2002 c 247 s 4
;
1979 ex.s. c 213 s 3
;
1963 c 154 s 28
.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2003 c 141 s 4 and by 2003 c 353 s 7, 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
—
2003 c 353:
See note following RCW 46.04.320
.
Legislative review
—
2002 c 247:
See note following RCW 46.04.1695
.
Effective date
—
1963 c 154:
See note following RCW 46.37.010
.
RCW 46.04.336
Motorized foot scooter.
"Motorized foot scooter" means a device with two or three wheels that has handlebars, a floorboard that can be stood upon while riding, and is powered by an internal combustion engine or electric motor that has a maximum speed of no greater than twenty miles per hour on level ground.
For purposes of this section, a motor-driven cycle, a moped, an electric-assisted bicycle, or a motorcycle is not a motorized foot scooter.
[
2019 c 170 s 1
;
2009 c 275 s 3
;
2003 c 353 s 6
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2003 c 353:
See note following RCW 46.04.320
.
RCW 46.04.338
Mount St. Helens license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Mount St. Helens license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display an image of Mount St. Helens.
[
2025 c 385 s 12
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.340
Muffler.
"Muffler" means a device consisting of a series of chambers, or other mechanical designs for the purpose of receiving exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine and effective in reducing noise resulting therefrom.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.340
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 35
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.350
Multiple lane highway.
"Multiple lane highway" means any highway the roadway of which is of sufficient width to reasonably accommodate two or more separate lanes of vehicular traffic in the same direction, each lane of which shall be not less than the maximum legal vehicle width and whether or not such lanes are marked.
[
1975 c 62 s 5
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.350
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 36
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.355
Municipal transit vehicle.
Municipal transit vehicle includes every motor vehicle, streetcar, train, trolley vehicle, and any other device, which (1) is capable of being moved within, upon, above, or below a public highway, (2) is owned or operated by a city, county, county transportation authority, public transportation benefit area, regional transit authority, or metropolitan municipal corporation within the state, and (3) is used for the purpose of carrying passengers together with incidental baggage and freight on a regular schedule.
[
2004 c 118 s 2
;
1984 c 167 s 2
;
1974 ex.s. c 76 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Unlawful conduct in a transit vehicle: RCW 9.91.025
.
RCW 46.04.3551
Music Matters license plates.
"Music Matters license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the "Music Matters" logo.
[
2011 c 229 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2011 c 229:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.356
Natural person.
"Natural person" means a human being.
[
2010 c 161 s 125
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.3561
Nautical Northwest license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Nautical Northwest license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a Northwest maritime scene.
[
2025 c 385 s 13
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.357
Neighborhood electric vehicle.
"Neighborhood electric vehicle" means a self-propelled, electrically powered four-wheeled motor vehicle whose speed attainable in one mile is more than twenty miles per hour and not more than twenty-five miles per hour and conforms to federal regulations under Title 49 C.F.R. Part 571.500.
[
2003 c 353 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2003 c 353:
See note following RCW 46.04.320
.
RCW 46.04.358
New motor vehicle.
"New motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle that (1) is self-propelled and is required to be registered and titled under this title, (2) has not been previously titled to a retail purchaser or lessee, and (3) is not a used vehicle as defined under RCW 46.04.660
.
[
2010 c 161 s 126
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.360
Nonresident.
"Nonresident" means any person whose residence is outside this state and who is temporarily sojourning within this state.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.360
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 37
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.363
Off-road motorcycle.
"Off-road motorcycle" means a motorcycle as defined in RCW 46.04.330
that is labeled by the manufacturer's statement or certificate of origin as intended for "off-road use only" or a similar message stamped into the frame of the motorcycle, contained in the owner's manual, or affixed to any part of the motorcycle.
[
2011 c 121 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2011 c 121:
"This act takes effect January 1, 2012." [
2011 c 121 s 5
.]
RCW 46.04.365
Off-road vehicle.
"Off-road vehicle" or "ORV" means a nonstreet registered vehicle when used for recreational purposes on nonhighway roads, trails, or a variety of other natural terrain. "Off-road vehicle" or "ORV" includes, but is not limited to, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, four-wheel drive vehicles, and dune buggies.
[
2010 c 161 s 127
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.367
Off-street facility.
"Off-street facility" means a location typically held open for use by the public for parking vehicles, ingress and egress, or used for commercial purposes. Use of such locations falls under chapter 283, Laws of 2023 when used for illegal racing when such use is without the express permission of the owner of the facility.
[
2023 c 283 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2023 c 283:
"This act takes effect January 1, 2024." [
2023 c 283 s 9
.]
RCW 46.04.370
Operator or driver.
"Operator or driver" means every person who drives or is in actual physical control of a vehicle.
[
1975 c 62 s 6
;
1967 c 32 s 1
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.370
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 38
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.371
Organ transport vehicle.
"Organ transport vehicle" means any vehicle operated or contracted by an organ procurement organization as defined in RCW 68.64.010, and clearly and identifiably marked as such on all sides of the vehicle.
[
2023 c 290 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.372
ORV registration.
"ORV registration" means a registration certificate or decal issued under the laws of this state pertaining to the registration of off-road vehicles under chapter
46.09
RCW.
[
2010 c 161 s 128
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.380
Owner.
"Owner" means a person who has a lawful right of possession of a vehicle by reason of obtaining it by purchase, exchange, gift, lease, inheritance or legal action whether or not the vehicle is subject to a security interest and means registered owner where the reference to owner may be construed as either to registered or legal owner.
[
1975 c 25 s 2
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.380
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 39
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.3802
Ownership in doubt.
"Ownership in doubt" means that a vehicle or vessel owner is unable to obtain satisfactory evidence of ownership or releases of interest and is permitted to apply for a three-year registration period without a certificate of title or a three-year period with a bond covering the certificate of title.
[
2010 c 161 s 129
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.3815
Parts car.

NOTES:
Reviser's note:
RCW 46.01.3815
was amended by 2011 c 171 s 16 without reference to its repeal by
2011 c 114 s 10
. It has been decodified for publication purposes under RCW 1.12.025
.
RCW 46.04.382
Passenger car.
"Passenger car" means every motor vehicle except motorcycles and motor-driven cycles, designed for carrying ten passengers or less and used for the transportation of persons.
[
1963 c 154 s 29
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1963 c 154:
See note following RCW 46.37.010
.
RCW 46.04.383
Patches pal license plates.
(1) "Patches pal license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the likenesses of the J.P. Patches and Gertrude characters from the J.P. Patches show, or children's characters that are changed in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.
(2) Beginning October 1, 2031, and each decade thereafter, the Seattle children's hospital may consult with the department regarding the design of the Patches pal license plate to determine whether the current design is the best design to support the Seattle children's hospital strong against cancer program in the following 10-year time period. Following this consultation, if Seattle children's hospital determines that another group of appropriate children's characters would better support the program due to public interest at the time, Seattle children's hospital may request a redesign of the Patches pal license plate with these new characters and a new corresponding plate name. The costs associated with this consultation and redesign may be paid from the proceeds from the special license plate sales or else shall be covered by Seattle children's hospital as the sponsoring organization.
[
2022 c 239 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2022 c 239:
See note following RCW 46.17.220
.
RCW 46.04.385
Personalized license plates.
"Personalized license plates" means license plates that display the license plate number assigned to the vehicle or camper for which the license plate number was issued in a combination of letters or numbers, or both, requested by the owner of the vehicle or camper in accordance with chapter
46.18
RCW.
[
2010 c 161 s 131
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.400
Pedestrian.
"Pedestrian" means any person who is afoot or who is using a wheelchair, a power wheelchair, or a means of conveyance propelled by human power other than a bicycle.
[
2003 c 141 s 5
;
1990 c 241 s 1
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.400
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 41
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.405
Person.
"Person" includes every natural person, firm, copartnership, corporation, association, or organization.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.405
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 42
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.408
Photograph, picture, negative.
"Photograph," along with the terms "picture" and "negative," means a pictorial representation, whether produced through photographic or other means, including, but not limited to, digital data imaging.
[
1990 c 250 s 21
.]
RCW 46.04.410
Pneumatic tires.
"Pneumatic tires" includes every tire of rubber or other resilient material designed to be inflated with compressed air to support the load thereon.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.410
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 43
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.414
Pole trailer.
"Pole trailer" means every vehicle without motive power designed to be drawn by another vehicle and attached to the towing vehicle by means of a reach, or pole, or by being boomed or otherwise secured to the towing vehicle, and ordinarily used for transporting long or irregular shaped loads such as poles, pipes, logs or structural members capable, generally, of sustaining themselves as beams between the supporting connections.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.414
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 44
; prior:
1951 c 56 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.4141
Police officer.
Police officer means every officer authorized to direct or regulate traffic or to make arrests for violations of traffic regulations.
[
1965 ex.s. c 155 s 89
. Formerly RCW 46.04.391
.]
RCW 46.04.415
Power wheelchair.
"Power wheelchair" means any self-propelled vehicle capable of traveling no more than fifteen miles per hour, usable indoors, designed as a mobility aid for individuals with mobility impairments, and operated by such an individual.
[
2003 c 141 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Wheelchair conveyance: RCW 46.04.710
.
RCW 46.04.416
Private carrier bus.
"Private carrier bus" means every motor vehicle designed for the purpose of carrying passengers (having a seating capacity for eleven or more persons) used regularly to transport persons in furtherance of any organized agricultural, religious or charitable purpose. Such term does not include buses operated by common carriers under a franchise granted by any city or town or the Washington public utilities commission.
[
1970 ex.s. c 100 s 3
.]
RCW 46.04.420
Private road or driveway.
"Private road or driveway" includes every way or place in private ownership and used for travel of vehicles by the owner or those having express or implied permission from the owner, but not by other persons.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.420
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 45
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.422
Private use single-axle trailer.
"Private use single-axle trailer" means a trailer owned by a natural person and used for the private noncommercial use of the owner.
[
2010 c 161 s 132
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.429
Professional firefighters and paramedics license plates.
"Professional firefighters and paramedics license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol denoting professional firefighters and paramedics.
[
2011 c 171 s 17
;
2004 c 35 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.435
Public scale.
"Public scale" means every scale under public or private ownership which is certified as to its accuracy and which is available for public weighing.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.435
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 47
.]
RCW 46.04.437
Purple heart license plates.
"Purple heart license plates" means special license plates that may be assigned to a motor vehicle required to display one or two license plates, excluding vehicles registered under chapter
46.87
RCW, upon terms and conditions established by the department, to recipients of the Purple Heart medal or to another qualified person.
[
2011 c 332 s 2
;
2010 c 161 s 133
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.440
Railroad.
"Railroad" means a carrier of persons or property upon vehicles, other than streetcars, operated upon stationary rails, the route of which is principally outside cities and towns.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.440
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 48
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.450
Railroad sign or signal.
"Railroad sign or signal" means any sign, signal, or device erected by authority of a public body or official or by a railroad and intended to give notice of the presence of railroad tracks or the approach of a railroad train.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.450
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 49
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.455
Reasonable grounds.
"Reasonable grounds," when used in the context of a law enforcement officer's decision to make an arrest, means probable cause.
[
1995 c 332 s 19
.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1995 c 332:
See notes following RCW 46.20.308
.
RCW 46.04.460
Registered owner.
"Registered owner" means the person whose lawful right of possession of a vehicle has most recently been recorded with the department.
[
1975 c 25 s 3
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.460
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 50
; prior: 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.462
Registration.
"Registration" means the registration certificate or license plates issued under the laws of this state pertaining to the registration of vehicles.
[
2010 c 161 s 134
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.464
Renewal notice.
"Renewal notice" means the notice to renew a vehicle registration sent to the registered owner by the department.
[
2010 c 161 s 135
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.465
Rental car.
(1) "Rental car" means a passenger car, as defined in RCW 46.04.382, that is used solely by a rental car business for rental to others, without a driver provided by the rental car business, for periods of not more than thirty consecutive days.
(2) "Rental car" does not include:
(a) Vehicles rented or loaned to customers by automotive repair businesses while the customer's vehicle is under repair;
(b) Vehicles licensed and operated as taxicabs.
[
1992 c 194 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Effective dates
—
1992 c 194:
See note following RCW 46.04.466
.
RCW 46.04.466
Rental car business.
"Rental car business" means a person engaging within this state in the business of renting rental cars, as determined under rules of the department of licensing.
[
1992 c 194 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Effective dates
—
1992 c 194:
"(1) Sections 1 through 3 of this act are 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 June 1, 1992.
(2) Sections 4 through 13 of this act shall take effect January 1, 1993." [
1992 c 194 s 14
.]
RCW 46.04.467
Rental trailer.
"Rental trailer" means a trailer, as defined in RCW 46.04.620, that is used solely by a rental car business for rental to others for periods of not more than thirty consecutive days.
[
2020 c 11 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.468
Report of sale.
"Report of sale" means a document or electronic record transaction that when properly completed and filed protects the seller of a vehicle from certain criminal and civil liabilities arising from use of the vehicle by another person after the vehicle has been sold or a change in ownership has occurred.
[
2010 c 161 s 136
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.470
Residence district.
"Residence district" means the territory contiguous to and including a public highway not comprising a business district, when the property on such public highway for a continuous distance of three hundred feet or more on either side thereof is in the main improved with residences or residences and buildings in use for business.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.470
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 51
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.480
Revoke.
(Effective until October 1, 2025.)
"Revoke," in all its forms, means the invalidation for a period of one calendar year and thereafter until reissue. However, under the provisions of RCW 46.20.285, 46.20.311, 46.20.265, or
46.61.5055, and chapters
46.32
and
46.65
RCW, the invalidation may last for a period other than one calendar year.
[
2007 c 419 s 4
;
1995 c 332 s 10
;
1994 c 275 s 38
;
1988 c 148 s 8
;
1985 c 407 s 1
;
1983 c 165 s 14
;
1983 c 165 s 13
;
1979 c 62 s 7
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.480
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 52
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Findings
—
Short title
—
2007 c 419:
See notes following RCW 46.16A.010
.
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1995 c 332:
See notes following RCW 46.20.308
.
Short title
—
Effective date
—
1994 c 275:
See notes following RCW 46.04.015
.
Legislative finding
—
Severability
—
1988 c 148:
See notes following RCW 13.40.265
.
Effective dates
—
1985 c 407:
"Sections 2 and 4 of this act are 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 July 1, 1985. The remainder of the act shall take effect January 1, 1986." [
1985 c 407 s 8
.]
Legislative finding, intent
—
Effective dates
—
Severability
—
1983 c 165:
See notes following RCW 46.20.308
.
Severability
—
1979 c 62:
See note following RCW 46.65.020
.
PDF
RCW 46.04.480
Revoke.
(Effective October 1, 2025.)
"Revoke," in all its forms, means the invalidation for a period of one year and thereafter until reissue. However, under the provisions of RCW 46.20.285, 46.20.311, 46.20.265, or
46.61.5055, and chapters
46.32
and
46.65
RCW, the invalidation may last for a period other than one year.
[
2025 c 23 s 1
;
2007 c 419 s 4
;
1995 c 332 s 10
;
1994 c 275 s 38
;
1988 c 148 s 8
;
1985 c 407 s 1
;
1983 c 165 s 14
;
1983 c 165 s 13
;
1979 c 62 s 7
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.480
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 52
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 23 ss 1-4 and 6-14:
"Sections 1 through 4 and 6 through 14 of this act take effect October 1, 2025." [
2025 c 23 s 17
.]
Findings
—
Short title
—
2007 c 419:
See notes following RCW 46.16A.010
.
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1995 c 332:
See notes following RCW 46.20.308
.
Short title
—
Effective date
—
1994 c 275:
See notes following RCW 46.04.015
.
Legislative finding
—
Severability
—
1988 c 148:
See notes following RCW 13.40.265
.
Effective dates
—
1985 c 407:
"Sections 2 and 4 of this act are 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 July 1, 1985. The remainder of the act shall take effect January 1, 1986." [
1985 c 407 s 8
.]
Legislative finding, intent
—
Effective dates
—
Severability
—
1983 c 165:
See notes following RCW 46.20.308
.
Severability
—
1979 c 62:
See note following RCW 46.65.020
.
RCW 46.04.485
Ride share license plates.
"Ride share license plates" means special license plates issued for motor vehicles that are used primarily for commuter ride sharing as defined in *RCW 46.74.010
.
[
2010 c 161 s 137
.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
RCW 46.74.010
was amended by 2021 c 135 s 2, deleting the definition of "commuter ride sharing."
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.490
Road tractor.
"Road tractor" includes every motor vehicle designed and used primarily as a road building vehicle in drawing road building machinery and devices.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.490
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 53
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.500
Roadway.
"Roadway" means that portion of a highway improved, designed, or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the sidewalk or shoulder even though such sidewalk or shoulder is used by persons riding bicycles. In the event a highway includes two or more separated roadways, the term "roadway" shall refer to any such roadway separately but shall not refer to all such roadways collectively.
[
1977 c 24 s 1
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.500
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 54
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.510
Safety zone.
"Safety zone" means the area or space officially set apart within a roadway for the exclusive use of pedestrians and which is protected or is marked or indicated by painted marks, signs, buttons, standards, or otherwise, so as to be plainly discernible.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.510
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 55
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.514
Salvage vehicle.
"Salvage vehicle" means a vehicle whose certificate of title has been surrendered to the department under RCW 46.12.600
due to the vehicle's destruction or declaration as a total loss or for which there is documentation indicating that the vehicle has been declared salvage or has been damaged to the extent that the owner, an insurer, or other person acting on behalf of the owner, has determined that the cost of parts and labor plus the salvage value has made it uneconomical to repair the vehicle. "Salvage vehicle" does not include a motor vehicle having a model year designation of a calendar year that is at least six years before the calendar year in which the vehicle was wrecked, destroyed, or damaged, unless, after June 13, 2002, and immediately before the vehicle was wrecked, destroyed, or damaged, the vehicle had a retail fair market value of at least the then market value threshold amount and has a model year designation of a calendar year not more than twenty years before the calendar year in which the vehicle was wrecked, destroyed, or damaged.
[
2010 c 161 s 138
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.516
San Juan Islands license plates.
"San Juan Islands license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the San Juan Islands in Washington state.
[
2019 c 177 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2019 c 177:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.518
Scale weight.
"Scale weight" means the weight of a vehicle without a load.
[
2010 c 161 s 139
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.521
School bus.
School bus means every motor vehicle used regularly to transport children to and from school or in connection with school activities, which is subject to the requirements set forth in the most recent edition of "Specifications for School Buses" published by the state superintendent of public instruction, but does not include buses operated by common carriers in urban transportation of school children or private carrier buses operated as school buses in the transportation of children to and from private schools or school activities.
[
1995 c 141 s 1
;
1965 ex.s. c 155 s 90
.]
RCW 46.04.522
Seattle Mariners license plates.
"Seattle Mariners license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the Seattle Mariners.
[
2018 c 67 s 7
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2018 c 67 ss 3-8:
See note following RCW 46.17.220
.
RCW 46.04.5221
Seattle NHL hockey special license plates.
"Seattle NHL hockey special license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the logo of the national hockey league team based in Seattle.
[
2020 c 129 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2020 c 129:
See note following RCW 46.17.220
.
RCW 46.04.5222
Seattle Reign FC license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Seattle Reign FC license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the logo of the Seattle Reign FC.
[
2025 c 385 s 17
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.523
Seattle Seahawks license plates.
"Seattle Seahawks license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the Seattle Seahawks.
[
2013 c 286 s 7
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2013 c 286:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.524
Seattle Sounders FC license plates.
"Seattle Sounders FC license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Seattle Sounders FC.
[
2013 c 286 s 6
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2013 c 286:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.525
Seattle University license plates.
"Seattle University license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Seattle University.
[
2014 c 6 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2014 c 6:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.526
Secured party.
"Secured party" has the same meaning as in *RCW 62A.1-201
.
[
2010 c 161 s 140
.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
The reference to RCW 62A.1-201
appears to be erroneous. Reference to RCW 62A.9A-102
was apparently intended.
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.527
Security interest.
"Security interest" has the same meaning as in RCW 62A.1-201
.
[
2010 c 161 s 141
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.530
Semitrailer.
"Semitrailer" includes every vehicle without motive power designed to be drawn by a vehicle, motor vehicle, or truck tractor and so constructed that an appreciable part of its weight and that of its load rests upon and is carried by such other vehicle, motor vehicle, or truck tractor.
[
1979 ex.s. c 149 s 1
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.530
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 57
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.535
Share the road license plates.
"Share the road license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing an organization that promotes bicycle safety and awareness education. Share the road license plates commemorate the life of Cooper Jones.
[
2010 c 161 s 142
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.540
Sidewalk.
"Sidewalk" means that property between the curb lines or the lateral lines of a roadway and the adjacent property, set aside and intended for the use of pedestrians or such portion of private property parallel and in proximity to a public highway and dedicated to use by pedestrians.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.540
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 58
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.542
Ski & ride Washington license plates.
"Ski & ride Washington license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing the Washington snowsports industry.
[
2010 c 161 s 143
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.544
Smokey Bear license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Smokey Bear license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the name, image, and likeness of Smokey Bear promoting wildfire prevention and the state department of natural resources' wildland wildfire program.
[
2025 c 385 s 14
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.545
Snow bike.
"Snow bike" means a motorcycle or off-road motorcycle that has been modified with a conversion kit to include (1) an endless belt tread or cleats or similar means for the purposes of propulsion on snow and (2) a ski or sled type runner for the purposes of steering.
[
2019 c 262 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2019 c 262:
See note following RCW 46.16A.460
.
RCW 46.04.546
Snowmobile.
"Snowmobile" means a self-propelled vehicle that is capable of traveling over snow or ice that (1) utilizes as its means of propulsion an endless belt tread or cleats, or any combination of these or other similar means of contact with the surface upon which it is operated, (2) is steered wholly or in part by skis or sled type runners, and (3) is not otherwise registered as, or subject to, the motor vehicle excise tax in the state of Washington.
[
2010 c 161 s 145
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.550
Solid tire.
"Solid tire" includes every tire of rubber or other resilient material which does not depend upon inflation with compressed air for the support of the load thereon.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.550
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 59
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
RCW 46.04.551
Special highway construction equipment.
(1) "Special highway construction equipment" means any vehicle that is (a) designed and used primarily for the grading of highways, the paving of highways, earthmoving, and other construction work on highways, (b) not designed or used primarily to transport persons or property on a public highway, and (c) only incidentally operated or moved over the highway.
(2) "Special highway construction equipment" includes, but is not limited to, road construction and maintenance machinery that is designed and used for the purposes described under subsection (1) of this section, 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, earthmoving scrapers and carryalls, lighting plants, welders, pumps, power shovels and draglines, and self-propelled and tractor-drawn earthmoving equipment and machinery, including dump trucks and tractor-dump trailer combinations that (a) are in excess of the legal width, (b) 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 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 (c) are driven or moved upon a public highway only for the purpose of crossing the highway from one property to another, provided that the movement does not exceed five hundred feet and the vehicle is equipped with wheels or pads that will not damage the roadway surface.
[
2010 c 161 s 144
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.552
Special mobile equipment.
"Special mobile equipment" means every vehicle not designed or used primarily for the transportation of persons or property and only incidentally operated or moved over a highway, including but not limited to: Ditch digging apparatus, well boring apparatus and road construction and maintenance machinery such as asphalt spreaders, bituminous mixers, bucket loaders, tractors other than truck tractors, ditchers, leveling graders, finishing machines, motor graders, road rollers, scarifiers, earthmoving carryalls and scrapers, power shovels and draglines, and self-propelled cranes and earthmoving equipment. The term does not include house trailers, dump trucks, truck mounted transit mixers, cranes or shovels or other vehicles designed for the transportation of persons or property to which machinery has been attached.
[
1973 1st ex.s. c 17 s 1
;
1972 ex.s. c 5 s 1
;
1963 c 154 s 30
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1963 c 154:
See note following RCW 46.37.010
.
RCW 46.04.553
Sport utility vehicle.
"Sport utility vehicle" means a high performance motor vehicle weighing six thousand pounds or less, designed to carry ten passengers or less or designated as a sport utility vehicle by the manufacturer.
[
2010 c 161 s 146
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.554
Square dancer license plates.
"Square dancer license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol of square dancers.
[
2010 c 161 s 147
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.555
Stand or standing.
"Stand or standing" means the halting of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, otherwise than temporarily for the purpose of and while actually engaged in receiving or discharging passengers.
[
1975 c 62 s 10
.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.556
Standard issue license plates.
"Standard issue license plates" means license plates that are held for general issue, and does not mean personalized license plates or any other special license plate.
[
2010 c 161 s 148
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.559
State flower license plates.
"State flower license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display the Washington state flower.
[
2012 c 65 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2012 c 65:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.560
State highway.
"State highway" includes every highway or part thereof, which has been designated as a state highway or branch thereof, by legislative enactment.
[
1975 c 62 s 7
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.560
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 60
; prior: 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.563
State sport license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"State sport license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that recognize the state sport of pickleball.
[
2025 c 385 s 16
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.565
Stop.
"Stop" when required means complete cessation from movement.
[
1975 c 62 s 11
.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.566
Stop or stopping.
"Stop or stopping" when prohibited means any halting even momentarily of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the directions of a police officer or traffic control sign or signal.
[
1975 c 62 s 12
.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.570
Streetcar.
"Streetcar" means a vehicle other than a train for transporting persons or property and operated upon stationary rails principally within cities and towns.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.570
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 61
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.572
Street rod vehicle.
"Street rod vehicle" means a motor vehicle that:
(1) Is a 1948 or older vehicle or the vehicle was manufactured after 1948 to resemble a vehicle manufactured before 1949; and
(2) Has alterations to one or more of the major component parts listed in RCW 46.80.010
that change the appearance or performance of the vehicle from the original manufacturer's design or has a body constructed from nonoriginal materials.
[
2011 c 114 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2011 c 114:
"This act takes effect October 1, 2011." [
2011 c 114 s 11
.]
RCW 46.04.574
Subagency.
"Subagency" means the licensing office in which vehicle title and registration functions are carried out by a subagent.
[
2010 c 161 s 149
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.575
Subagent.
"Subagent" means a person or governmental entity recommended by a county auditor or other agent and who is appointed by the director to provide vehicle registration and certificate of title services under contract with the county auditor or other agent.
[
2010 c 161 s 150
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.580
Suspend.
(Effective until October 1, 2025.)
"Suspend," in all its forms and unless a different period is specified, means invalidation for any period less than one calendar year and thereafter until reinstatement.
[
1994 c 275 s 28
;
1990 c 250 s 22
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.580
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 62
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Short title
—
Effective date
—
1994 c 275:
See notes following RCW 46.04.015
.
PDF
RCW 46.04.580
Suspend.
(Effective October 1, 2025.)
"Suspend," in all its forms and unless a different period is specified, means invalidation for any period less than one year and thereafter until reinstatement.
[
2025 c 23 s 2
;
1994 c 275 s 28
;
1990 c 250 s 22
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.580
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 62
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 23 ss 1-4 and 6-14:
See note following RCW 46.04.480
.
Short title
—
Effective date
—
1994 c 275:
See notes following RCW 46.04.015
.
RCW 46.04.581
Tab.
"Tab" or "license tab" means a sticker issued by the department and affixed to the rear license plate to identify the vehicle license expiration month and year for a specific vehicle.
[
2010 c 161 s 151
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.582
Tandem axle.
"Tandem axle" means any two or more consecutive axles whose centers are less than seven feet apart.
[
1988 c 6 s 1
;
1979 ex.s. c 149 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.585
Temporarily sojourning.
"Temporarily sojourning," as the term is used in chapter
46.04
RCW, shall be construed to include any nonresident who is within this state for a period of not to exceed six months in any one year.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.585
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 63
; prior:
1955 c 89 s 6
.]
RCW 46.04.5851
Temporary license plate.
"Temporary license plate" means a plate or placard that may be issued to a vehicle owner by the department or by an authorized entity for the purposes of temporary vehicle licensing.
[
2022 c 132 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2022 c 132:
See note following RCW 46.04.2701
.
RCW 46.04.5852
Temporary operating authority.
"Temporary operating authority" means a paper or electronic credential issued under chapter
46.87
RCW that conforms with the international registration plan requirements for temporary evidence of apportioned registration.
[
2022 c 132 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2022 c 132:
See note following RCW 46.04.2701
.
RCW 46.04.586
THC concentration.
"THC concentration" means nanograms of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol per milliliter of a person's whole blood. THC concentration does not include measurement of the metabolite THC-COOH, also known as carboxy-THC.
[
2013 c 3 s 3
(Initiative Measure No. 502, approved November 6, 2012).]
NOTES:
Intent
—
2013 c 3 (Initiative Measure No. 502):
See note following RCW 69.50.101
.
RCW 46.04.587
Total loss vehicle.
"Total loss vehicle" means a vehicle that has been reported to the department as destroyed by an insurance company, self-insurer, or the vehicle owner or the owner's authorized representative.
[
2010 c 161 s 152
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.588
Tow dolly.
"Tow dolly" means a trailer equipped with between one and three axles designed to connect to a tow bar on the rear of a motor vehicle that is used to tow another vehicle. The front or rear wheels of the towed vehicle are secured to and rest on the tow dolly.
[
2010 c 161 s 153
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.589
Tracked all-terrain vehicle.
"Tracked all-terrain vehicle" means any "wheeled all-terrain vehicle" as defined in RCW 46.09.310
and weighing less than two thousand pounds in stock configuration, with tracks or a combination of tracks and skis installed in place of the standard low-pressure tires.
[
2021 c 86 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.590
Traffic.
"Traffic" includes pedestrians, ridden or herded animals, vehicles, streetcars, and other conveyances either singly or together, while using any public highways for purposes of travel.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.590
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 64
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.600
Traffic control signal.
"Traffic control signal" means any traffic device, whether manually, electrically, or mechanically operated, by which traffic alternately is directed to stop or proceed or otherwise controlled.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.600
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 65
; prior: 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.611
Traffic-control devices.
Official traffic-control devices means all signs, signals, markings and devices not inconsistent with Title
46
RCW placed or erected by authority of a public body or official having jurisdiction, for the purpose of regulating, warning or guiding traffic.
[
1965 ex.s. c 155 s 88
.]
RCW 46.04.620
Trailer.
"Trailer" includes every vehicle without motive power designed for being drawn by or used in conjunction with a motor vehicle constructed so that no appreciable part of its weight rests upon or is carried by such motor vehicle, but does not include a municipal transit vehicle, or any portion thereof. "Trailer" does not include a cargo extension.
[
2016 c 22 s 2
;
1974 ex.s. c 76 s 3
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.620
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 67
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part; 1923 c 181 s 1, part; 1921 c 96 s 2, part; 1919 c 59 s 1, part; 1917 c 155 s 1, part; RRS s 6313, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2016 c 22:
See notes following RCW 46.04.094
.
RCW 46.04.621
Transit permit.
"Transit permit" means a document that authorizes a person to operate a vehicle on a public highway of this state solely for the purpose of obtaining the necessary documentation to complete and apply for a Washington certificate of title or vehicle registration. Unlimited use of the vehicle is prohibited when operated under a transit permit.
[
2010 c 161 s 154
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.622
Park trailer.
"Park trailer" or "park model trailer" means a travel trailer designed to be used with temporary connections to utilities necessary for operation of installed fixtures and appliances. The trailer's gross area shall not exceed four hundred square feet when in the setup mode. "Park trailer" excludes a mobile home.
[
1989 c 337 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.62240
Share the Road license plates.
"Share the Road license plates" means license plates that commemorate the life of Cooper Jones and display a symbol of an organization that promote[s] bicycle safety and awareness education in communities throughout Washington.
[
2005 c 426 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.62250
Signal preemption device.
"Signal preemption device" means a device that is capable of altering the normal operation of a traffic control signal. Any such device manufactured by a vehicle manufacturer is not a signal preemption device for purposes of this section if the primary purpose of the device is any purpose other than the preemption of traffic signals and the device's ability to alter traffic signals is unintended and incidental to the device's primary purpose.
[
2005 c 183 s 1
.]
RCW 46.04.62260
Ski & Ride Washington license plates.
"Ski & Ride Washington license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of the Washington snowsports industry in this state.
[
2011 c 171 s 18
;
2005 c 220 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.623
Travel trailer.
"Travel trailer" means a trailer built on a single chassis transportable upon the public streets and highways that is designed to be used as a temporary dwelling without a permanent foundation and may be used without being connected to utilities.
[
1989 c 337 s 3
.]
RCW 46.04.630
Train.
"Train" means a vehicle propelled by steam, electricity, or other motive power with or without cars coupled thereto, operated upon stationary rails, except streetcars.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.630
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 68
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.640
Trolley vehicle.
"Trolley vehicle" means a vehicle the motive power for which is supplied by means of a trolley line and which may or may not be confined in its operation to a certain portion of the roadway in order to maintain trolley line contact.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.640
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 69
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.650
Tractor.
"Tractor" means every motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles and not so constructed as to carry a load other than a part of the weight of the vehicle and load so drawn.
[
1986 c 18 s 1
;
1975 c 62 s 8
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.650
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 70
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.652
Transportation network company.
"Transportation network company" means a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, or other entity that operates in this state, and uses a digital network to connect passengers with transportation network company drivers to provide prearranged rides.
[
2021 c 93 s 3
.]
RCW 46.04.653
Truck.
"Truck" means every motor vehicle designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of property.
[
1986 c 18 s 2
.]
RCW 46.04.655
Truck tractor.
"Truck tractor" means every motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles but so constructed as to permit carrying a load in addition to part of the weight of the vehicle and load so drawn.
[
1986 c 18 s 3
.]
RCW 46.04.657
United States Naval Academy license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"United States Naval Academy license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a design related to the United States Naval Academy.
[
2025 c 385 s 21
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.660
Used vehicle.
"Used vehicle" means a vehicle which has been sold, bargained, exchanged, given away, or title transferred from the person who first took title to it from the manufacturer or first importer, dealer, or agent of the manufacturer or importer, and so used as to have become what is commonly known as "secondhand" within the ordinary meaning thereof.
[
1961 c 12 s 46.04.660
. Prior:
1959 c 49 s 71
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part.]
RCW 46.04.670
Vehicle.
(1) "Vehicle" means a device capable of being moved upon a public highway and in, upon, or by which any persons or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway.
(2) "Vehicle" excludes:
(a) A power wheelchair or device other than a bicycle moved by human or animal power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks;
(b) A moped, for the purposes of chapter
46.70
RCW;
(c) A bicycle or a motorized foot scooter, for the purposes of chapter
46.12, 46.16A, or
46.70
RCW, or for RCW 82.12.045
;
(d) An electric personal assistive mobility device or a motorized foot scooter, for the purposes of chapter
46.12, 46.16A, 46.29, 46.37, or
46.70
RCW;
(e) A golf cart, except for the purposes of chapter
46.61
RCW; and
(f) A personal delivery device as defined in RCW 46.75.010, except for the purposes of chapter
46.61
RCW.
[
2023 c 470 s 1007
. Prior:
2019 c 214 s 7
;
2019 c 170 s 2
;
2011 c 171 s 19
; prior:
2010 c 217 s 2
;
2010 c 161 s 155
;
2003 c 141 s 6
;
2002 c 247 s 5
;
1994 c 262 s 2
;
1991 c 214 s 2
;
1979 ex.s. c 213 s 4
;
1961 c 12 s 46.04.670
; prior:
1959 c 49 s 72
; prior: (i) 1943 c 153 s 1, part; 1937 c 188 s 1, part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6312-1, part. (ii) 1937 c 189 s 1, part; RRS s 6360-1, part; 1929 c 180 s 1, part; 1927 c 309 s 2, part; RRS s 6362-2, part.]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement
—
2023 c 470:
See note following RCW 10.99.030
.
Effective date
—
2019 c 214:
See note following RCW 46.75.010
.
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
Legislative review
—
2002 c 247:
See note following RCW 46.04.1695
.
Mopeds
helmet required: RCW 46.37.530, 46.37.535
.
motorcycle endorsement, exemption: RCW 46.20.500
.
operation and safety standards: RCW 46.61.710, 46.61.720
.
registration: RCW 46.16A.405
(2), 46.17.350
(1)(f).
RCW 46.04.671
Vehicle license fee.
"Vehicle license fee" means a fee collected by the state of Washington as a license fee, as that term is construed in Article II, section 40 of the state Constitution, for the act of registering a vehicle under chapter
46.16A
RCW. "Vehicle license fee" does not include license plate fees, or taxes and fees collected by the department for other jurisdictions.
[
2011 c 171 s 20
;
2010 c 161 s 156
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.672
Vehicle or pedestrian right-of-way.
"Vehicle or pedestrian right-of-way" means the right of one vehicle or pedestrian to proceed in a lawful manner in preference to another vehicle or pedestrian approaching under such circumstances of direction, speed, and proximity as to give rise to danger of collision unless one grants precedence to the other.
[
1975 c 62 s 13
.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
1975 c 62:
See note following RCW 36.75.010
.
RCW 46.04.681
Vintage snowmobile.
"Vintage snowmobile" means a snowmobile manufactured at least thirty years ago.
[
2010 c 161 s 157
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.683
Washington apples license plate.
"Washington apples license plate" means a special license plate under RCW 46.18.200
that displays the Washington apple logo.
[
2020 c 93 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2020 c 93:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.685
Washington farmers and ranchers license plates.
"Washington farmers and ranchers license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Washington farmers and ranchers.
[
2016 c 36 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2016 c 36:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.686
Washington honey bees and pollinators license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Washington honey bees and pollinators license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display images of honey bees and pollinators.
[
2025 c 385 s 18
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.691
Washington Lighthouses license plates.
"Washington Lighthouses license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of lighthouse environmental programs in Washington state.
[
2011 c 171 s 21
;
2005 c 48 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.6910
Washington state aviation license plates.
"Washington state aviation license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display images of a Stearman biplane and Mount Rainier.
[
2017 c 11 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Intent
—
2017 c 11:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.6911
Washington state parks license plates.
"Washington state parks license plates" means special license plates displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing Washington state parks as premier destinations of uncommon quality that preserve significant natural, cultural, historical, and recreational resources.
[
2010 c 161 s 158
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.6912
Washington state wrestling license plates.
"Washington state wrestling license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing Washington state wrestling.
[
2016 c 15 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2016 c 15:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.6913
Washington tennis license plates.
"Washington tennis license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing tennis in Washington state.
[
2016 c 16 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2016 c 16:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.6914
Washington wine license plates.
"Washington wine license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a landscape of Washington's wine regions.
[
2022 c 117 s 4
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2022 c 117:
See note following RCW 46.17.220
.
RCW 46.04.6915
Washington's fish license plate collection.
"Washington's fish license plate collection" means the collection of fish license plate designs. Each license plate design displays a distinct symbol or artwork, to include steelhead, recognizing the fish of Washington.
[
2016 c 30 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2016 c 30:
See note following RCW 46.18.200
.
RCW 46.04.692
Washington's National Park Fund license plates.
"Washington's National Park Fund license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of Washington's National Park Fund in preserving Washington's national parks for future generations in Washington state.
[
2011 c 171 s 22
;
2005 c 177 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.693
Washington's wildlife license plate collection.
"Washington's wildlife license plate collection" means the collection of three separate license plate designs. Each license plate design displays a distinct symbol or artwork, to include bear, deer, and elk, recognizing the wildlife of Washington.
[
2010 c 161 s 159
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.705
We love our pets license plates.
"We love our pets license plates" means license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display a symbol or artwork recognizing the efforts of the Washington state federation of animal care and control agencies in Washington state that assists local member agencies of the federation to promote and perform spay/neuter surgery of Washington state pets, in order to reduce pet overpopulation.
[
2011 c 171 s 23
;
2005 c 71 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 c 171:
See notes following RCW 4.24.210
.
RCW 46.04.710
Wheelchair conveyance.
"Wheelchair conveyance" means any vehicle specially manufactured or designed for the transportation of a physically or medically impaired wheelchair-bound person. The vehicle may be a separate vehicle used in lieu of a wheelchair or a separate vehicle used for transporting the impaired person while occupying a wheelchair. The vehicle shall be equipped with a propulsion device capable of propelling the vehicle within a speed range established by the state patrol. The state patrol may approve and define as a wheelchair conveyance, a vehicle that fails to meet these specific criteria but is essentially similar in performance and application to vehicles that do meet these specific criteria.
[
1987 c 330 s 703
;
1983 c 200 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Construction
—
Application of rules
—
Severability
—
1987 c 330:
See notes following RCW 28B.12.050
.
Severability
—
1983 c 200:
"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 200 s 7
.]
Power wheelchairs: RCW 46.04.415
.
Wheelchair conveyances
operator's license: RCW 46.20.109
.
public roadways, operating on: RCW 46.61.730
.
registration: RCW 46.16A.405
(3).
safety standards: RCW 46.37.610
.
RCW 46.04.714
Wild on Washington license plates.
"Wild on Washington license plates" means special license plates that display a symbol or artwork symbolizing wildlife viewing in Washington state.
[
2010 c 161 s 161
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
Intent
—
Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session
—
2010 c 161:
See notes following RCW 46.04.013
.
RCW 46.04.725
Working forests license plates.
(Effective November 1, 2025.)
"Working forests license plates" means special license plates issued under RCW 46.18.200
that display images embodying working forests.
[
2025 c 385 s 15
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2025 c 385 ss 3-24:
See note following RCW 44.04.300
.
Short title
—
2025 c 385:
See note following RCW 46.18.060
.
RCW 46.04.900
Construction
—
Title applicable to state registered domestic partnerships
—
2009 c 521.
For the purposes of this title, the terms spouse, marriage, marital, husband, wife, widow, widower, next of kin, and family shall be interpreted as applying equally to state registered domestic partnerships or individuals in state registered domestic partnerships as well as to marital relationships and married persons, and references to dissolution of marriage shall apply equally to state registered domestic partnerships that have been terminated, dissolved, or invalidated, to the extent that such interpretation does not conflict with federal law. Where necessary to implement chapter 521, Laws of 2009, gender-specific terms such as husband and wife used in any statute, rule, or other law shall be construed to be gender neutral, and applicable to individuals in state registered domestic partnerships.
[
2009 c 521 s 112
.]