Bill > HB2114

This bill aims to address issues with defective license plates issued by the Department of Licensing (DOL) by allowing for free or reduced-cost replacements under certain conditions. Specifically, if a license plate becomes illegible, has peeling paint, or its material degrades within 24 months of issuance, it can be replaced for free without requiring payment of the original license plate, filing, license service, service, special license plate, or personalized license plate fees. If the request for replacement is made between 24 and 60 months after issuance, the replacement may still be free, but the DOL can impose some fees at its discretion based on criteria it establishes, provided the plate is deemed defective and not intentionally damaged or associated with fraudulent activity. The bill defines a defective license plate as one that is no longer functional due to illegibility, peeling paint, or material degradation, and it allows the DOL to require the return of the defective plate. It also outlines exceptions where free or reduced-cost replacements are not provided, such as when the plate has been tampered with, damaged in an accident, is linked to a stolen vehicle, or if the person has already received a replacement within the last five years. The bill also clarifies that the original fees collected when a license plate is first purchased should not apply to replacements for defective plates, and it amends existing law (RCW 46.16A.200) to reflect these changes, with the new provisions taking effect on January 1, 2027.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2114&Year=2025&Initiative=false