Washington § 46.12.540 - Issuance of certificates — Contents.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.12.540 — Issuance of certificates — Contents., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 46.12.540. Issuance of certificates — Contents.

(1) The department shall issue an electronic record of ownership or a written certificate of title if the department is satisfied from the statements on the application that the applicant is the legal owner of the vehicle or otherwise entitled to have a certificate of title in the applicant's name.
(2) Each certificate of title issued by the department must contain:
(a) The date of application;
(b) The certificate of title number assigned to the vehicle;
(c) The name and address of the registered owner and legal owner;
(d) The vehicle identification number;
(e) The mileage reading, if required, as provided by the odometer disclosure statement submitted with the application involving a transfer of ownership;
(f) A notation that the recorded mileage is actual, not actual, or exceeds mechanical limits;
(g) A blank space on the face of the certificate of title for the signature of the registered owner;
(h) Information on whether the vehicle was ever registered and operated as an exempt vehicle or taxicab;
(i) A brand conspicuously shown across its front if indicating that the vehicle has been rebuilt after becoming a salvage vehicle;
(j) The director's signature and the seal of the department; and
(k) Any other description of the vehicle and facts the department may require.
(3) The department shall deliver the registration certificate to the registered owner and the certificate of title to the legal owner, or both to the person who is both the registered owner and legal owner.
[ 2010 c 161 s 305; 1996 c 26 s 2; 1993 c 307 s 1; 1990 c 238 s 3; 1975 c 25 s 9; 1967 c 32 s 9; 1961 c 12 s 46.12.050. Prior: 1959 c 166 s 1; 1947 c 164 s 2; 1937 c 188 s 4; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 6312-4. Formerly RCW 46.12.050.]

Notes

Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.
Effective date, implementation—1990 c 238: See note following RCW 46.12.530.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.12.540

What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.12.540 cover?

Section 46.12.540 ("Issuance of certificates — Contents.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 46.12.540?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.12.540" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 46.12.540 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.