Do I Need a Vehicle Transfer on Death Designation in Washington?
Answer a few questions about how your vehicle is titled to see whether a transfer-on-death designation applies for avoiding probate on a vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Washington does not offer a vehicle transfer-on-death designation. Washington has no enacted statute authorizing a transfer-on-death (TOD) beneficiary designation or "certificate of ownership in beneficiary form" on a motor vehicle or trailer title. Chapter 46.12 RCW (Certificates of Title) contains no TOD or beneficiary-designation provision. A 2002 bill, HB 2653, would have created a vehicle "certificate of ownership in beneficiary form," but it died in the House Judiciary Committee and was never enacted. The Department of Licensing transfers a deceased owner's vehicle through estate, surviving-joint-owner, community-property, or affidavit-of-inheritance paths instead (WAC 308-56A-335).
Because Washington does not offer a vehicle TOD designation, the vehicle transfers through: Affidavit of Inheritance (DOL form TD-420-041): when the deceased left no estate requiring administration and no letters testamentary/administration were issued, the heir submits the affidavit with the vehicle title and a copy of the death certificate, then applies for a new certificate of title (WAC 308-56A-335; form TD-420-041)., Surviving joint owner: if joint tenancy with right of survivorship was indicated on the certificate of ownership, the surviving owner transfers the title into their name with a copy of the death certificate (WAC 308-56A-335)., Community property agreement: a surviving spouse/partner transfers title with a copy of the death certificate and the community property agreement (WAC 308-56A-335)., Administered estate: the personal representative releases and transfers the vehicle using letters testamentary, letters of administration, or a certificate of the county clerk (WAC 308-56A-335). A person acquiring a vehicle by inheritance must apply for a new certificate of title within 15 days of delivery (RCW 46.12.650(6)(a)).. To keep other assets out of probate, SimplyTrust sets up a revocable trust online.
Without a vehicle TOD option, a Washington vehicle typically passes through the estate unless it is jointly titled or held in a trust, or qualifies for a small-estate transfer. Compare your options with the trust vs. will comparison.
When you're ready, we're here.
Washington Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Washington probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
