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Page 1: Washington Car Registrationcar-registration.org.s3.amazonaws.com/pdf/checklist/new...Page 6 | Car-Registration.orgVehicle Registration Getting a vehicle is always an exciting adventure

Page 1 | Car-Registration.org

WashingtonCar Registration

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Bonus

Features

24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits

24-Hour Towing Service

24-Hour Mechanical First Aid

24-Hour Tire Change Service

Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer.

Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available.

Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire.

Congratulations on your 60-dayRoadside Assistance membershipWhen out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere.

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Rental Car Discounts

24-Hour Lost Key Service

24-Hour Emergency Delivery

24-Hour Emergency Battery Service

Map Routing Service

Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.

If keys are locked inside a customer’s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle’s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer’s expense for labor and key making.

A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies.

Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road.

We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify.

Theft And Hit & Run Protection

A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers’ vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD’s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD’s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection.

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Follow the link in your confirmation email to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon.

*PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership.

CONGRATULATIONS! Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online

Keeping You Safe Mile After MileOnce your purchase is processed, you will receive an email with the information you need to start your 60-day Roadside Assistance membership.

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Registration Insurance Requirements

Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

DOL Hours and Locationsions

License Plates

Vehicle Registration

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

Registering Your Vehicle in Washingtontonnrolina

Updating Your Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Safety Tips

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Contents

Registration Insurance Requirements

Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

DOL Hours and Locations

License Plates

Vehicle Registration

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

Registering Your Vehicle in Washington

Updating Your Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Safety Tips

Table of

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Vehicle Registration

Getting a vehicle is always an exciting adventure. It does not matter if it is your first car or if you have already purchased many vehicles in the past, making the decision to obtain a car is a big step and it must be taken carefully to avoid any inconveniences.

Whenever you purchase a car, whether it is new or used, you must register the car to operate a vehicle in your state of residence. When you change your residential address to another state, you will have to follow the procedure to transfer your registration.

The entire process looks very complicated, but it does not have to be. This guide will help you in each step of your path towards registering your vehicle. You will also learn how to transfer your registration from another state and how to renew your vehicle registration even when you are out-of-state.

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Registration InsuranceRequirements

When you go to register your vehicle, you must obtain insurance or other form of financial responsibility before you can continue with the process at the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). This is a necessary requirement in order to help reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the road, which can often result in high costs if you are involved in any vehicle accident. Liability insurance is designed to help you pay for any damages or injuries you caused to someone due to a car accident. When registering a vehicle in Washington, you have a few options for vehicle coverage. You must get a coverage plan from in Washington from a licensed insurance company. When registering a vehicle, you may choose from one of the following coverage options:

Auto insurance with minimum liability requirements

a - $25,000 coverage for death or injury of one person in one accidents

b - $50,000 for the coverage of death or injury for two people in one accident

c - $10,000 in coverage for injury or property damage of anyone in one accident

Certificate of deposit

a - You must complete a Financial Responsibility Application and Affidavit and send the form to the DOL.

b - If you are approved, you (or your financial institution or your securities firm) must submit:

i - The Assignment of Monies

Liability bond filed by a surety bond company for a minimum of $60,000.

If you opt for a certificate of coverage option, you must submit all necessary documentation within 30 days of your application. A certificate of deposit must be for at least $60,000, and you can deposit collateral with the DOL or with a banking account set up for the State of Washington. When driving, it is important to carry the proof of insurance or other type of coverage on you, in case an officer or any other authority requests it. The documents must be legible and show that the car is properly covered. You may also qualify for self-insurance if you own more than 25 vehicles.

or Securities for Financial Responsibility application.

ii - Financial statements.

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Registering Your Vehicle in Washington

One of the most important parts of the vehicle registration process in Washington is looking at the requirements you will need to meet, as well as the steps you must follow depending on the type of car you hold.

Whether you are submitting a request for a new, used, out of state, military or special type of vehicle, you should review the specific instructions to register your car so you can make sure the process is as easy and quick as possible. In order to this, you can simply read the outlined steps below to better understand what exactly you must do in order to legally drive your vehicle in Washington and begin driving as soon as possible.

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Register a New VehicleIf you purchased a brand new car at a dealership, you do not have to worry about registering it since the dealership will take care the registration process. When you purchase a new vehicle, you must present a current Washington driver’s license so the dealership can register the vehicle in your name. You do not need to present a Washington license if you are a nonresident licensed to drive in another state or a member of the armed forces licensed by the military to drive an official military vehicle as part of service duties. However, the dealer did not complete your title and registration process and went out of business, you have a course of action you may take. You can file a complaint if you never received a title or are still in the process of making payments on a vehicle. To file a complaint, you can:

Complete an online complaint against business or individual  and submit supporting documents.

Call 360-664-6475.

Fill out a Vehicle Dealers, Manufacturers, and For Hire Complaint form and include supporting documents and send the information by fax, email or mail to the contact information listed on the form.

Supporting documents can include copies of the title application, the agreement for purchase, proof of payment or any other proof of attempting to get the title or a release of interest. Learn more about this process here.

Register a Used Vehicle From a Private PartyIf you purchase a car from a private party, or receive a car as a gift, you must be sure to complete all the necessary steps to transfer ownership and register the car in your name. You must transfer ownership no more than 15 days after the transaction. After 15 days, you will start paying fines: $50 on the 16th day and $2 on every day after that, up to $125. If you are the vehicle seller, or if you gift or

donate a vehicle, you must submit a report of sale to the DOL no more than five days after the transaction. You may submit the report online, through License eXpress or at a vehicle licensing location. When buying a used vehicle you and the seller must fill out the Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale by following the instructions on the form. You must also sign a vehicle title application in front of a notary or in front of a vehicle licensing office representative. You must bring these forms, the vehicle title and an accepted method of payment to a vehicle licensing office or send the forms by mail. You may also need to submit an Odometer Disclosure, the emissions testing report and/or an Affidavit of Loss/Release, depending on your vehicle or the transaction. The Odometer Disclosure is only necessary for cars younger than 10 years old. Typically, the title has an area for odometer information, but if it does not, you can order one from the DOL. To order an Odometer Disclosure statement you can:

Email the DOL at [email protected] to receive the form by mail.

• You must include your name and mailing address in the request.

Go to a vehicle licensing location and pick one up.

Request one by phone at 360-902-3770 and wait for the form in the mail.

You can visit a Quick Title office location to receive your title paperwork sooner than the standard eight to 10 weeks. Fees can vary based on transaction, but any Quick Title request costs an additional $50 for expedited service. You must also get new license plates due to the transfer of ownership, unless the transfer is between a spouse, between family members as a gift or inheritance or if the vehicle is part of a trust for immediate family members. You also do not need new plates if you are removing a deceased spouse off the title.

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Register an Out-Of-State VehicleIf you move to Washington, you must register your vehicle within 30 days of the move. Before you can register your vehicle, you must make sure to get a driver’s license. You fees may vary based on your vehicle and situation, so it is best to contact your closest vehicle licensing location to determine fees. You may need to fill out certain paperwork when transferring your out-of-state vehicle based on a variety of factors. For example, if you vehicle is at least 10 years old or older, you do not need to fill out the Odometer Disclosure Statement. However, if the vehicle is younger, you must be sure to provide odometer information on the title or on an Odometer Disclosure statement. Some cars must meet California emission standards depending on the age of the car. For a complete list of registration requirements for an out-of-state vehicle, click here.

You can submit all of your forms by mail or in person at a vehicle licensing office. If you submit the Vehicle Title Application by mail, you must be sure to sign the form in front of a notary. If you visit the office in person, you must sign the application in front of the office representative. You must also bring your current vehicle title or a copy of the title held by the company that hold your vehicle title. You must also bring an accepted method of payment for the necessary fees. If you complete the application process in person, the DOL will provide you with plates. If you register by mail, the plate will arrive by mail within three weeks.

Registration for Military MembersThere are three different situations for military members in or from Washington. Non-residents stationed in Washington do not need to register their vehicles, but they must have a valid insurance and registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles at their hometown. Washington residents in the military will have to follow the same procedure as a regular resident. Washington residents stationed outside of Washington must register their vehicle by mail and include the following documentation and information:

Vehicle title

• An Odometer Disclosure Form is necessary if the car is less than 10 years old.

A copy of military orders that let the DOL know that the applicant is stationed outside of the state for at least 90 days

A photocopy of Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) to show Washington is the home of record

Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale  or a dealership purchase agreement

• This form is only necessary for vehicles registered outside of Washington that have been owned for less than 90 days.

The Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin or Certificate of Origin

• This document is only needed for new vehicles or vehicles licenses outside of the United States

A Primary Residence Address Exception application

Mail the documentation and the fees to a DOL vehicle licensing office. To learn more about vehicle registration for military personnel, click here for more information.

Vehicle Title Application

• This must be signed in front of a notary or an active-duty commissioned officer before mailing.

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Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

Renewing your vehicle’s registration is an important part of being a Washington driver. Without valid registration, you cannot legally drive your car. The Washington DOL offers a variety of ways to renew registration when your tabs expire every 12 months. You can use the vehicle tab estimation tool to determine how much registration will cost based on your vehicle type. You may also need to pay a Regional Transit Authority (RTA) excise tax fee, and you can estimate the cost by using the DOL’s online tool here. You may need to complete emissions testing before renewal, depending on your vehicle’s age and type. You can also check here to see if your vehicle needs to meet any additional requirements, such as updating your address, before completing renewal. Additionally, you must pay any fees from tickets or tolls before renewing your car registration tabs.

The DOL offers renewal methods online, in person at a vehicle licensing office or by mail. You can receive reminders for renewal by mail or by email. You must make sure to keep your mailing address up-to-date in the DOL system to continue receiving notices. If you want to receive notices by email, click here to sign up for this reminder method. To learn more about each method, continue reading the sections below.

OnlineWithout leaving the comfort of your house, you can submit your application to get your car registration renewed. The DOL offers renewal through the standard online portal and through the License eXpress portal, depending on your preferences. To renew online, you must make sure that your tabs are not expired by more than one year. You can check your License eXpress account to see the expiration date of your tabs, or you can check the tabs of your car

to see the month and year of expiration. Simply follow the instructions and submit the necessary registration fees. You can receive your new tabs by mail or you can pick them up at an office, if desired.

In PersonTo renew your tabs in person, visit the nearest DOL office and bring your car registration, proof of identity and payment for the necessary renewal fees. When paying renewal fees in person, verify with your chosen office on accepted methods of payment, as it can vary by office.

By MailYou may be able to renew your registration tabs by mail if you receive a letter from the DOL allowing you to use this method. Simply follow the instructions and mail the necessary check or money order for registration fees. Additionally, you may use this mailing method if you are active-duty military personnel stationed outside of Washington during your registration renewal period. You can send your renewal notice, a copy of your military orders and a check or money order to a licensing office. You can also request this in person, if possible. Make checks and money orders out to the Department of Licensing.

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Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

If something has happened to your vehicle registration, you must replace it as soon as possible to continue driving legally. It does not matter if your vehicle registration was recently lost, stolen or even damaged, the Washington DOL will help you in obtaining a new vehicle registration or vehicle tab decal.

Replace TabsRegistration tabs are the decals on a license plate that indicate the expiration date and the validity of registration. To replace the tabs, you need to fill out the Affidavit of Loss form and submit it by mail or in person to a vehicle licensing station. When signing the affidavit, you must do so in front of a DOL representative or a notary. For a passenger vehicle, you must provide an accepted method of payment for $9.25. Replacement tabs for trucks cost $8.50. Before going to an office location, you should verify with the office on an accepted form of payment. For mail, send a check or money order made payable to the Department of Licensing. The DOL will send out the new tabs by mail one business day after your request. If you do not receive your tabs by mail, make sure to contact the licensing office to ask about a replacement. The DOL will replace the tabs at no cost as long as you have a current mailing address on file and that you did not receive your tabs 15 to 90 days after your replacement request.

Replace RegistrationIf you need to replace your car registration documents, make sure to complete an Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest. You and any other owners listed on the vehicle registration must sign and get the form notarized if you send the affidavit by mail. If you submit the form in person, you must sign in front of the licensing agent. Your registration replacement may vary, so it is best to contact the vehicle office to confirm the amount you owe. If you submit payment by mail, you must send a check or money order made payable to the Department of Licensing.

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Updating Your Vehicle Registration

If you change your name or move to a new place of residence, you must make sure to update your vehicle information.

Changing registration information is a separate process from updating your license, so you must make sure to complete both tasks as necessary. The DOL offers a few easy methods for each type of information change, so continue reading to learn more.

Changing Your NameChanging your name is not only the result of a big change in your life, but it will also greatly affect your documents and general information in regards to your identity. If you have officially changed your name, then you must update it on all of your identification documents and cards, including your car registration. Doing this is very simple, but you need to contact the Social Security Administration first so the Washington Department of Licensing can verify the modification. When you change your name on your registration, you must make sure to do it for each vehicle in your name, if necessary. When changing your name, you can complete the process in person or by mail. If you currently have a lien or loan on your vehicle, you must make the name change through the lender. When changing your name on your vehicle documents through the DOL, you must bring or submit:

A current Washington certificate of title.

• If you do not have a title, you must submit the Affidavit of Loss.

A completed Vehicle Title Application form.

A copy of the name change authorization from a court or a Vehicle/Vessel Owner Name Update Affidavit for Individual.

• The affidavit must be certified in person at a DOL location or notarized by a notary public.

A check or money order made payable to the Department of Licensing.

If changing your name by mail, you can send the forms and payment to a vehicle licensing office, a Quick Title office or the the address below:

Refunds and Title ServicesDepartment of LicensingPO Box 9043Olympia, WA 98507-8500

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To change the name on your registration, you must pay a $10 fee, although some offices may charge a service fee in addition to the standard fee. You will receive the updated registration at the end of your transaction at the office. If you want to do a name change on your title through a DOL office, you must pay $31 for a vehicle, and the DOL will issue you a new title in eight to 10 weeks. If you want expedited title service, you can visit a Quick Title location and pay $81 to receive your title immediately in person or soon after your transaction by mail.

Changing Your AddressIn the case that you may have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you update the address on your car registration. The DOL offers online and in person services to change the address on your vehicle information. This process only changes the information on one vehicle at a time, so it is important that to update any additional vehicles as necessary.

Online

You can use the License eXpress tool and change your address once you log into your account. You can also use the WA DOL website and start your request. Another choice you have is changing your address using the fleet tool that works as long as you know that number. Once you complete the transaction online, you do not automatically receive updated documents. If you want a title and/or registration that reflect the change of address, you must purchase new copies.

In Person

You can change your address on your registration and title by going to a DOL vehicle office or a Quick Title office, if desired. If you want new copies of your documents, you must purchase them, as the DOL does not automatically send new documents.

Fees

To order a new registration with the updated address, you must pay the $10 fee. Some DOL offices may charge service fees for this transaction, but you will receive it

immediately at the office. If you want to order a new title, you must pay $31 to receive it in eight to 10 weeks by mail. If you visit a Quick Title office, you must pay $81 to receive the title immediately or by mail. Before going to an office, make sure to verify the accepted methods of payment.

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License Plates

When you register your vehicle, the WA DOL assigns a license plate number to you. Whenever you renew your registration, your license plates are also renewed.

The DOL will give you a decal that you must attach to the license plate. The decal has the expiration date of your registration and must be up to date at all times. Besides the regular WA license plates, there are also specialty plates that support a specific theme or cause, such as professional associations, sports, universities and environmental themes. They may be purchased at an additional cost that helps fund the particular cause. Obtain your regular and specialty license plates at any of the Washington DOL offices across the state.

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Replace License PlatesIf you damage or lose your license plates, you must replace your plates as soon as possible to maintain driving privileges. When replacing plates, you must verify your address online here or in person at a vehicle licensing location. When replacing your plates, you must visit the vehicle offices in person and bring:

An Affidavit of Loss or a letter to the DOL explaining why you need new replacement license plates.

• You must get these forms notarized.

A form of photo identification.

Cash or check for the replacement plate fee.

• Vehicles: $32.75

• Trucks: $32

• Motorcycles: $14.75

can get a special design for the plate background. To get a custom plate with a standard background for a passenger vehicle, you must pay $84.75. If you get a custom plate with a special design for a standard car, you must pay $124.75. When you renew your plates every year, you must pay the applicable fees. To get a complete list of custom plate costs, you should contact a DOL vehicle licensing office.

When applying for custom plates, the application will vary slightly if you also get a special background with the customized number. For a plate with a special background, you can mail or bring the Specialty License Plate Application to any vehicle licensing location. If you request a custom license plate, you can submit the application in person to King County Auditor’s office or by mail to:

Special Plate Unit, Department of LicensingPO Box 9909Olympia, WA 98507-8500

If visiting an office in person, make sure to verify methods of payment. If sending the application by mail, you must also send a check or money order payable to the Department of Licensing.

Surrendering Washington License PlatesAfter you replace your license plates or sell your vehicle, you can no longer use the old license plates. Although you are not required to surrender the plates to the DOL, the DOL provides a few suggestions for disposal. You can simply keep the plates, but you must take the tabs off and you cannot use the plates on a vehicle. You can remove the registration decals and bend the plate to submit the plates for recycling. You can take the plates to a participating recycling center or verify with your local recycling provider if they accept plates for recycling. If you need to dispose of your old license plate, you can take them to a vehicle licensing office or mail the old plates to:

Department of Licensing 1125 Washington St SE Olympia, WA 98504

If you need to replace personalized or non-standard plates, you must bring the License Plate Replacement Application form and the fee for that plate type. The DOL will cancel your current plates after you receive your replacements.

Getting Custom PlatesVanity plates are available for different vehicles types like commercial, motorcycle, private passenger or antique vehicles. These original plate designs cannot have special characters or display offensive messages. Additionally, the combination or characters must be available and not in use by another driver. You can check the availability of your custom plate here. The total amount of characters goes from one to seven including a combination of numbers, letters, spaces or hyphens. When you request a personalized plate, you can get a standard background design with a mountain, or you

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Vehicle Safety Tips

Before getting behind the wheel, it is important that your vehicle be prepared for a trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive.

Emergency KitOne of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, first-aid kit, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves and socks, and a shovel.

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Inclement Driving WeatherIf you live an area with snow or icy conditions during winter, you must take extra precautions when driving. Even rainy weather can create hazardous driving situations. Consider the below tips below to drive safely during inclement weather.

Do Not Rush!

Ice, snow and rain can create slippery and dangerous roads. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for an appointment. You should also slow down further back than you might normally do in favorable weather conditions so you can avoid abrupt and dangerous stops or turns.

Do Not Panic If You Skid or Slip

In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while driving, make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. You must also gently steer your vehicle in the direction you need to go. You must not make sharp wheel turns or brake suddenly. Following this advice will prevent you from spinning further out of control.

Check Your Vehicle

Before you leave your house, make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze and exhaust are all in working order. You should make sure your tires are not worn down are too smooth, as poor tire tread can cause an accident. If you need to, you can replace your tires during the winter with snow tires or add snow chains to help provide safe driving conditions. It is also important that you remove all ice and snow from your car before you begin driving. You should never leave your windows icy or covered in snow, as this can obstruct your vision.

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Drinking and DrivingDriving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a dangerous situation that can kill or severely injure drivers and passengers alike. You can prevent a tragedy by planning ahead and making responsible choices. Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If they also become intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. If you need to stop someone from driving while intoxicated, take away his or her keys and call for alternative transportation.

If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving – such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, breaking erratically or turning abruptly – call 911 and contact authorities immediately. Make sure to avoid impaired drivers on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until they are at a safe distance from your car.

Phone UseDriving while using your cellphone is incredibly dangerous. Distracted driving can cause accidents, injury and death. Washington legislation fines cell phone use while driving. If you need to use your cellphone, you should pull over and come to a complete stop or wait until you get to your destination. Additionally, you can use a hands-free device to make calls while operating a vehicle. However, you cannot use hands-free devices if you hold an intermediate license, unless it is an emergency. Click here for more information on cellphone use while driving in Washington.

Things to AvoidDriving is not always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be both an annoyance and dangerous to you while driving on the road. Read the below tips to see potential behaviors and actions that can help you improve your driving experience.

Car Accidents

One way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive. You should perform routine maintenance on things like your brakes, tires and steering.

Tires may lose traction or inflation and you can easily lose control of your vehicle. You should also check to see that your brakes are functioning correctly or if they need any maintenance or replacement. You can take your vehicle to a mechanic or car dealership to make sure everything runs smoothly and safely.

Wasting Gas

If you drive often, start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. You should avoid sudden acceleration and excessive speeding to make the most of your gasoline. Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well tuned and that you use the correct type of fuel in your vehicle.

Aggressive Driving

Some drivers may exhibit dangerous and aggressive behavior while driving. Some of these aggressive driving tactics can include verbal or physical harassment of another motorist and unsafe vehicle operation. Aggressive driving can lead to reckless and dangerous behavior that can cause serious injuries on the road. Drivers should pay close attention to the road and avoid aggressive drivers when possible.

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DOL Hours and Locations

There are several options available for you in case you need to visit or contact a DOL office. You may find all the DOL offices for vehicle licensing here. Select a county to see the address, phone number, office hours at that location. Some of the listed offices have an external link that will detail all the services provided at that office. To confirm services, contact the office of your choice. If you want expedited title services, you can visit a Quick Title provider.

You can email the DOL at [email protected] for basic vehicle registration questions and services.

You can call the DOL at 360-902-3900 or at 711 for TTY services.

Hours can vary by location. For more contact information like email addresses and fax numbers for specific departments or concerns, click here.

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