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A snowmobile is a self-propelled vehicle capable of traveling over snow. A snow bike is a motorcycle modified with a conversion kit in order to drive over snow. They both have the following features:
We don't issue titles for snowmobiles but you do need to register them. If you bought a snowmobile that is already registered, you must transfer it into your name within 10 days of taking possession of it.
Visit your local licensing office if you modified a motorcycle that was already registered. If you plan to use the snow bike for highway use you may need to fill out a highway use declaration form. Submit it along with the items listed below.
What you need to submit:
You must renew your decals and registration by October 1 for the following year.
If you skipped a renewal year and want to renew for the next year that's coming up make sure you renew on October 1. Otherwise you'll be renewing for the year you skipped. Snowmobile registration period is from October 1 through September 30 of the following year. Registration fees aren't prorated.
We issue 2 decals for snowmobiles and snow bikes in place of license plates.
Affix the decals and tabs to the snowmobile or snow bike as follows:
Snowmobiles manufactured 30 or more years ago are considered vintage. Owners:
The following snowmobiles aren't subject to annual registration:
When a snowmobile comes from a jurisdiction that doesn't register them, it qualifies for a nonresident temporary permit from the first day of use in Washington. Out of state snowmobiles may get a permit for no more than 60 consecutive days. Snowmobiles located in Washington for more than 60 consecutive days must be fully registered in Washington.
To apply for the permit, visit a local vehicle licensing office and submit a Non-resident snowmobile application and pay all applicable fees.
Washington doesn't issue titles for snowmobiles. If you want to put a lien on a snowmobile, contact us for specific instructions and application. We register security interests with our Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) section. They aren't recorded on the snowmobile registration.