Washington Car Registration Renewal Cost
Renewing a typical car's registration in Washington costs about $75.75 per year in state fees (a 3-year-old gas car). Use the calculator for your own car; every fee comes from Washington's official schedule (last reviewed October 7, 2026).
| License fee | $30 |
|---|---|
| Weight fee | $45 |
| License service fee | $0.75 |
| Renewal total | $75.75 |
Estimate of state renewal fees only. Your renewal notice shows the exact amount, including local fees.
What you pay when you renew in Washington
A renewal repeats only the yearly registration charges. The title fee, any transfer fee, new plates and the sales tax are paid once, when you buy or first register the car.
| License fee | $30 |
|---|---|
| Weight fee | $45 |
| License service fee | $0.75 |
| Renewal total | $75.75 |
- Sound Transit (RTA) excise tax applies in the Puget Sound district.
- EV registration fees are extra.
How Washington sets the registration fee
- Fees = title + filing + service + license + weight fee + $10 additional weight fee + license service + arbitration (dealer) + plates
How to renew in Washington
Renew online, by mail or in person with the Washington motor vehicle agency. The renewal notice shows the exact amount, including any county or city fees, and what you need (usually proof of insurance). Official source: dol.wa.gov.
Buying a car in Washington instead?
The first registration also includes the title and sales tax: see the Washington car sales tax calculator and the Washington title transfer cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to renew a car registration in Washington?
About $75.75 per year in state fees for a typical 3-year-old gas car (License fee $30, Weight fee $45, License service fee $0.75). Sound Transit (RTA) excise tax applies in the Puget Sound district. EV registration fees are extra.
How often do you renew your registration in Washington?
Every year for a standard passenger car.