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Our refund application processing time is currently 10-12 months. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Use the Vehicle/Vessel Refund Application to apply for a refund of vehicle or boat (vessel) fees.
If you renewed your vehicle/vessel registration early and you sold or traded it before the next registration started, bring or send us the following before the registration starts:
If you renewed your vehicle/vessel registration in error after you sold or traded it, bring or send us the following:
If the vehicle/vessel was destroyed or totaled before the new registration started, bring us proof that shows the VIN/HIN, and date of loss. Such as:
If the vehicle/vessel was registered in WA and is now registered in another state by you, bring us a copy of the current out-of-state registration in your name.
If the vehicle/vessel was removed from WA before the start of the new registration, bring us documentation proving it was permanently removed from Washington. Proof can be any of the following items:
If the vehicle/vessel was registered in WA twice by the same owner for the same registration period, bring us:
If you're 100% Disabled American Veterans, Former Prisoners of War and Gold Star Widow/Widowers are exempt from licensing fees.
After you've been approved by our Special Plates Unit, you can request a refund for your vehicle registration fees. Call us for instructions: 360.902.3780.
Non-resident military are exempt from RTA/Sound Transit excise tax
Complete the Non-Resident Military Affidavit for Exemption of Excise Tax form.
Enrolled tribal members are exempt from RTA/Sound Transit excise tax
Complete and Tribal certified Vehicle/Vessel Excise Tax Exemption Affidavit for Enrolled Tribal Member
To verify if your primary address is outside the RTA/Sound Transit boundary visit the Sound Transit website.
Contact the vehicle licensing office where you purchased your registration if you have questions.
Call us: 360.902.3770 option 5