Vehicle Code

Access the Vehicle Code

Whether you are getting ready to take a driver's test, need to read a specific vehicle law to contest a traffic ticket, or just want to know the exact rule on a driving-related issue in Washington, you can access the state's vehicle code online. Listed under Title 46 of the Revised Code of Washington, the vehicle code covers all of that and more, and it's provided free by its author: the Washington State Legislature.

While most of Washington's driver and vehicle transactions, such as getting a driver's license or registering your vehicle, are handled by the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL), the actual vehicle code for the state is provided by the State Legislature.

In order to make driving conditions in the state as safe as possible, and to assist all of Washington's citizens in their vehicle transportation needs, the state has uniform legislation that governs driving, the roads, bicyclists, pedestrians, and more.

Washington lists the following chapters, among many others, in its organization of the state's vehicle code:

• Definitions

• Vehicle licenses

• Driver's licenses

• Mandatory auto insurance

• Vehicle lighting and other equipment

• Rules of the road

• Motorcycle skills and testing

• Auto dealers and manufacturers

• Driver training

• Traffic school

Washington also provides additional notes on the following subjects, to name a few:

• Ambulances and drivers

• Bicycles

• Emissions checks

• Consumer protection

• Lemon Law

Most subjects listed in Washington's vehicle code link to other, more detailed information on those topics.

Check Your Driver's License Status

Whenever you need or want to check the status of your driver’s license, you can order a driving record report. This record will spell out if your driver’s license is currently valid. Should your license have been revoked or suspended, the report will indicate that according to what’s on record at the DOL. This report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.