Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.20.289 — Suspension for failure to respond, appear, etc., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 46.20.289. Suspension for failure to respond, appear, etc.
(1) Except for traffic violations committed under RCW
46.61.165, the department shall suspend all driving privileges of a person when the department receives notice from a court under RCW
46.63.070(6),
46.63.110(6), or
46.64.025 that the person has failed to respond to a notice of traffic infraction for a moving violation, failed to appear at a hearing for a moving violation, or failed to comply with the terms of a criminal complaint or criminal citation for a moving violation.
(2) The department shall suspend all driving privileges of a person when the department receives notice from another state under Article IV of the nonresident violator compact under RCW
46.23.010 or from a jurisdiction that has entered into an agreement with the department under RCW
46.23.020, other than for a standing, stopping, or parking violation, provided that the traffic infraction or traffic offense is committed on or after July 1, 2005.
(3) A suspension under this section takes effect pursuant to the provisions of RCW
46.20.245, and remains in effect until the department has received a certificate from the court showing that the case has been adjudicated, and until the person meets the requirements of RCW
46.20.311.
(4) A suspension under this section does not take effect if, prior to the effective date of the suspension, the department receives a certificate from the court showing that the case or cases have been adjudicated.
Notes
Effective date—2021 c 240: See note following RCW
46.63.060.
Finding—Intent—2019 c 467: "The legislature finds that individuals who engage in contrived or repeated violations of the state's high occupancy vehicle lane restrictions frustrate the state's congestion management, and justifiably incite indignation and anger among fellow transportation system users. The legislature intends the escalating penalties prescribed in this act to rebuke and discourage such conduct within Washington's transportation system." [
2019 c 467 s 1.]
Effective date—Contingency—2012 c 82: See note following RCW
46.63.110.
Effective date—2005 c 288: See note following RCW
46.20.245.
Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.20.289
What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.20.289 cover?
Section 46.20.289 ("Suspension for failure to respond, appear, etc.") 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 § 46.20.289?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.20.289" (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 § 46.20.289 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.
