SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1237
As of March 20, 2023
Title: An act relating to distribution of the vehicle identification number inspection fee.
Brief Description: Redistributing the vehicle identification number inspection fee.
Sponsors: Representatives Robertson and Fey.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/2/23, 98-0.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/23/23.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Changes the distribution of the $65 vehicle identification number inspection fee to go entirely to the State Patrol Highway Account.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
Staff: Bryon Moore (786-7726)
Background:

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is required to complete a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection when a vehicle: 

  • is declared a total loss or salvaged and not kept by the registered owner;
  • has been rebuilt after the certificate of title was returned to the state; or
  • has been presented to the state with documents that show the vehicle was a total loss or salvaged in another state and has not been reissued a valid registration certificate. 

 

A VIN inspection is also required when certain kinds of vehicles are being titled in the state for the first time, including a kit vehicle, a homemade vehicle, a street rod, a custom vehicle, or a vehicle where there is question about the VIN documentation on the vehicle. 

 

The VIN inspection is required by the Department of Licensing (DOL) before the vehicle owner can receive a certificate of title.  The VIN inspection fee is $65 with $50 being deposited into the Motor Vehicle Fund and $15 being deposited into the State Patrol Highway Account.
Summary of Bill:

The entire $65 VIN inspection fee is deposited into the State Patrol Highway Account.  A technical correction is made to the statutory reference for the distribution of the VIN inspection fee.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect on July 1, 2024.