Washington Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Washington requires that a defendant must specifically request the arresting officer to be present in court.
Washington State law states that drivers must stay right except to pass.
Washington State law states that you are allowed to temporarily exceed the speed limit while passing a vehicle that is traveling below the speed limit.
In the Seattle downtown core area (bounded by the water, I-5, Royal Brougham, and Denny), it is illegal to make a U-turn, even in instances where the turn would otherwise be legal under state law. There are no signs to announce this traffic law.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | 50 mph |
| State highways | *60 mph |
| Four-lane highways | **70 mph |
| Interstates | **70 mph |
**60 mph for trucks
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | No |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or damage to any one person's property exceeding $500 must be reported within 24 hours to the local authorities.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance and financial responsibility law with security-type and future proof-type laws applicable in the event of a non-insured accident.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/10,000.
Washington has uninsured motorists law.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle unless in the trunk of the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Washington has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 1-year driver's license suspension.
- Handguns must be unloaded and secured in an opaque case; rifles and shotguns must be unloaded and secured in a gun rack or gun case.
- Studded tires are permitted from November 1 to April 1.
- Tire chains are required where DOT "tire chain required" signs are posted on the mountain passes.
- Washington has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all occupants.
- Washington has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 11 years of age. Children under age 3 must use approved car safety seats.
- Washington has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 800/586-2088
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911