Transfer a car title after a death in Washington

If no executor or administrator has been appointed, an heir can transfer a vehicle or vessel with the DOL Affidavit of Inheritance/Litigation, the title, and a copy of the death certificate; an odometer disclosure or release of interest may also be needed.

Checked against official sources: October 30, 2026.

Car or vehicle title after a death in Washington

If no executor or administrator has been appointed, an heir can transfer a vehicle or vessel with the DOL Affidavit of Inheritance/Litigation, the title, and a copy of the death certificate; an odometer disclosure or release of interest may also be needed. The affidavit is signed before a notary or a Washington vehicle licensing agent. A government agency that issues certificates of ownership must also issue a new one on a Small Estate Affidavit and proof of death. A surviving joint owner with right of survivorship needs a copy of the death certificate; a spouse under a community property agreement needs the death certificate and a copy of the agreement.

Law: WAC 308-56A-335; RCW 11.62.010(3)

Agency
Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL)
Form
TD-420-041 Affidavit of Inheritance/Litigation
Fee

DOL charges its standard title transfer fees; ask a vehicle licensing office.

Source: Official page

Do vehicles count toward the small estate limit?

Kind of propertyHow it is treatedDetails
Cars and other vehicles
Counts

A vehicle subject to probate counts at its value minus any loan. The Department of Licensing issues a new title to the successor on the affidavit and proof of death.

Law: RCW 11.62.010(3)

Boats and mobile or manufactured homes
Counts

Boats and other titled personal property subject to probate count, minus liens.

Law: RCW 11.62.010(2)(c)

Related pages

Free help in Washington

A court self-help center or a legal aid office can check whether the estate qualifies, free of charge or at low cost.