Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.85.060 — Declarations of extent of reciprocity, when — Exemptions, benefits, and privileges — Rules., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 46.85.060. Declarations of extent of reciprocity, when — Exemptions, benefits, and privileges — Rules.
In the absence of an agreement or arrangement with another jurisdiction, the department may examine the laws and requirements of such jurisdiction and declare the extent and nature of exemptions, benefits and privileges to be extended to vehicles properly registered or licensed in such other jurisdiction, or to the owners of such vehicles, which shall, in the judgment of the department, be in the best interest of this state and the citizens thereof and which shall be fair and equitable to this state and the citizens thereof, and all of the same shall be determined on the basis and recognition of the benefits which accrue to the economy of this state from the uninterrupted flow of commerce. Declarations of exemptions, benefits, and privileges issued by the department shall include at least the following exemptions:
(1) Nonresident persons not employed in this state may operate a vehicle in this state that is currently licensed in another jurisdiction for a period not to exceed six months in any continuous twelve-month period.
(2) Nonresident persons employed in this state may operate vehicles not to exceed twelve thousand pounds registered gross vehicle weight that are currently licensed in another jurisdiction if no permanent, temporary, or part-time residence is maintained in this state for a period greater than six months in any continuous twelve-month period.
(3) A vehicle or a combination of vehicles, not exceeding a registered gross or combined gross vehicle weight of twelve thousand pounds, which is properly base licensed in another jurisdiction and registered to a bona fide business in that jurisdiction is not required to obtain Washington vehicle license registration except when such vehicle is owned or operated by a business or branch office of a business located in Washington.
(4) The department of licensing, after consultation with the department of revenue, shall adopt such rules as it deems necessary for the administration of these exemptions, benefits, and privileges.
Notes
Effective date—1982 c 227: See note following RCW
19.09.100.
Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.85.060
What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.85.060 cover?
Section 46.85.060 ("Declarations of extent of reciprocity, when — Exemptions, benefits, and privileges — Rules.") 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 § 46.85.060?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.85.060" (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 § 46.85.060 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.
