Trip permits
What is a trip permit?
They allow you to operate your unlicensed vehicles on public highways. A vehicle is considered unlicensed if:
- The vehicle tabs are expired.
- or
- The current gross weight isn't enough for the load being carried.
The cost is $30/per permit.
Vehicles that qualify
You can get a trip permit for:
- Any 1 vehicle — up to 3 permits issued in any 30-day period.
- Any 1 recreational vehicle (RV) — up to 2 permits issued in a 1-year period. Recreational vehicles include motor homes, travel trailers, camp trailers, and campers.
You can't get a trip permit for a:
- Non-highway and off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles and ORV use class vehicles. The permits are only for vehicles being on public highways.
- Commercial motor vehicles that have been placed out of service (DOT out of service).
- Destroyed vehicles.
How to purchase a trip permit
Visit any vehicle licensing office:
- Bring cash or check payable to Department of Licensing. Costs $30/per permit.
- No exchanges, refunds, or credits are given once they've been purchased.
How to use a trip permit
Each trip permit is valid for 3 consecutive days, beginning with the first day of use.
- You must complete, sign, and date the trip permit before you operate the vehicle.
- Any correction or alteration of data on the permit invalidates it.
Related information
- RCW 46.16A.320: Vehicle trip permits — Restrictions and requirements — Fees — Penalty — Rules
- RCW 46.44.095: Temporary additional tonnage permits — Fees
- WAC 308-97: Vehicle license interstate and intransit permits
- Permits: Commercial vehicles
- Temporary permits: Military personnel
