Like most other motor vehicles, custom-built and antique vehicles must be properly registered and titled in the state of Washington. However, the process of registering an antique or custom-built vehicle is different from registering a regular vehicle. If you have brought an antique or custom-built vehicle into Washington for a first time registration, or if you have custom-assembled a vehicle in the State, you will be referred to a Vehicle Licensing Office near you.

WHAT ARE ANTIQUE AND CUSTOM BUILT VEHICLES?

• In Washington, an antique vehicle is defined as any motor vehicle that was manufactured at least forty years ago. A collector's vehicle is one that was manufactured at least thirty years ago. A Street Rod is a vehicle that was manufactured before 1949 or is made to look like that.
• The State defines a custom-built vehicle as any motor vehicle that has been assembled or completely reconstructed using new or used parts, like Kit Cars. Custom vehicles are registered with the make as "custom-built."

HOW TO REGISTER AN ANTIQUE OR CUSTOM BUILT VEHICLE

You will have to visit a Vehicle Licensing office near you to register your antique or custom-built Vehicle. When registering a custom-built or antique vehicle, you will need to bring the following materials to the renewal office:

1. A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) issued by the State Patrol.
2. A completed and notarized Title Application, when obtaining a title for a new, custom-built vehicle.
3. The Certificate of Title or manufacturer's certificate of origin, for antique or custom vehicles that have already been titled.
4. Emissions certificate (only required in Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish and Spokane).
5. An Inspection Report, certifying that the vehicle is safe to take on the road.

FEES

When registering an antique or custom-built vehicle, you will be required to pay the appropriate titling fees. The Washington DOL accepts cash, money orders or checks (with two forms of identification).

RENEWING A CUSTOM-BUILT OR ANTIQUE VEHICLE REGISTRATION

Your custom-built or antique vehicle's registration will clearly indicate when it will expire. The process for renewing the registration on a custom or antique vehicle is the same as renewing the registration on a regular motor vehicle.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Auto Insurance is required for all custom vehicles operated in Washington.
• See also Title Transfers and Registering a Non-Custom Vehicle.