Washington § 46.37.685 - License plate flipping device — Unlawful use, display, sale — Penalty.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.37.685 — License plate flipping device — Unlawful use, display, sale — Penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 46.37.685. License plate flipping device — Unlawful use, display, sale — Penalty.

(1)(a) It is unlawful for a person to display a license plate on a vehicle that does not match or correspond with the registration of the vehicle unless the vehicle is inventory for a properly licensed vehicle dealer.
(b) It is unlawful for a person to have an installed license plate flipping device on a vehicle, use technology to flip a license plate on a vehicle, or use technology to change the appearance of a license plate on a vehicle.
(c) It is unlawful for a person or entity to sell a license plate flipping device or sell technology that will change the appearance of a license plate in the state of Washington.
(d) For purposes of this section, "license plate flipping device" means a device that enables a license plate on a vehicle to be changed to another license plate either manually or electronically. "License plate flipping device" includes technology that is capable of changing the appearance of a license plate to appear as a different license plate.
(2) A person who switches or flips license plates on a vehicle physically, utilizes technology to flip or change the appearance of a license plate on a vehicle, sells a license plate flipping device or technology that will change the appearance of a license plate, or falsifies a vehicle registration in violation of this section, in addition to any traffic infraction, is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable by confinement of up to three hundred sixty-four days in the county jail and a fine of one thousand dollars for the first offense, two thousand five hundred dollars for a second offense, and five thousand dollars for any subsequent offense, which may not be suspended, deferred, or reduced.
(3) A vehicle that is found with an installed license plate flipping device or technology to change the appearance of a license plate may be impounded by a law enforcement officer as evidence.
(4) Citizens are encouraged to notify law enforcement immediately if they observe a vehicle with a license plate flipping device.
[ 2013 c 135 s 1.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.37.685

What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.37.685 cover?

Section 46.37.685 ("License plate flipping device — Unlawful use, display, sale — Penalty.") 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 § 46.37.685?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.37.685" (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 § 46.37.685 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.

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