The Department of Licensing (DOL) collects special license plate fees and, for administrative expenses, deducts an amount not to exceed $12 for new plate issuance, and $2 for renewal.  After these expenses are paid, the State Treasurer (Treasurer) deposits the proceeds into the Motor Vehicle Account until the DOL determines that the start-up fee for a special license plate is paid.  Once the start-up fee is paid, the Treasurer credits the remaining special license plate fee amounts into an account specified for the sponsoring organization.

The Seattle Sounders FC special license plate is an existing special license plate with a paid start-up fee.  Proceeds from the sale of the plate after accounting for administrative expenses go to support the Washington State Mentors to increase the number of mentors within the state and to the Washington State Leadership Board to develop educational, veterans, international relations, and civics projects, and to recognize the outstanding public service of individuals or groups in the State of Washington.

Proceeds from the sale of the Seattle Sounders FC special license plate after accounting for administrative expenses, are directed to the RAVE foundation, the official charitable arm of the Seattle Sounders FC.