Collectors Plates are a special type of license plate available in Washington State for vehicles that are 30 years or older and meet specific requirements. These plates offer unique benefits for classic car enthusiasts, allowing them to showcase their prized possessions while adhering to state regulations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the requirements, application process, and important considerations for obtaining collector plates in Washington.
Collector Plate Requirements in Washington State
To be eligible for collector plates, both the vehicle and the owner must meet certain criteria:
Vehicle Requirements:
- Age: The vehicle must be at least 30 years old.
- Roadworthiness: The vehicle must be in operating condition and capable of being driven on public roads. It must have a current registration.
- Usage: The vehicle must be owned and operated primarily as a collector vehicle. Permitted uses include:
- Travel to and from car shows, parades, exhibitions, and antique car club events.
- Testing and maintenance drives.
- Occasional pleasure drives for others, without compensation.
- Restricted Usage: Collector plated vehicles cannot be used for:
- Regular daily transportation.
- Commercial purposes or hauling cargo.
Note: Collector plates are also available for trailers that are 30 years old or older.
Owner Requirements:
- Residency: You must be a registered vehicle owner in Washington State.
- Plate Specificity: Collector plates are assigned to a specific vehicle and cannot be transferred to another vehicle.
- Display: The plates are typically displayed on the rear of the vehicle. If you have a set of restored original plates for the vehicle year, they may be displayed on both the front and rear.
- Tabs: You are not required to display month/year tabs on collector plates.
Application Process for Collector Plates
Obtaining collector plates involves a few straightforward steps:
-
Determine the Cost: Fees vary based on the type of vehicle:
| Vehicle Type | Fee |
|————–|———-|
| Passenger Car | $100.25 |
| Truck | $99.50 |
| Motorcycle | $70.25 | -
Submit Application and Payment: Download and complete the Specialty License Plate Application, available on the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) website. Submit the application along with the required payment to:
Application & Issuance
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9909
Olympia, WA 98507-8500
You can contact a local vehicle licensing office for assistance with the application process and to confirm the total cost, including any potential additional fees.
Using Restored Original License Plates
Instead of obtaining new collector plates, you can opt to use restored original Washington license plates from the year your vehicle was manufactured. These plates must be authentic and restored to their original design; reproductions are not permitted. See the DOL’s guidelines on restored plates for detailed information.
Updating Your Good To Go! Account
If you utilize a Good To Go! electronic tolling pass, remember to update your vehicle information within your account on the Washington State Department of Transportation website after receiving your collector plates.
Conclusion
Collector plates offer a distinct way for classic car owners in Washington to legally operate and showcase their vehicles. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application procedure, and usage restrictions associated with these plates, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. For further inquiries, consult the Washington State Department of Licensing.
