License Plates to Benefit Pet Sterilization Effort

On January 3, 2006, the long awaited Pet Friendly license plates will go on sale at Washington State Department of Licensing offices. Proceeds from these plates will go toward a statewide pet sterilization program administered by the Washington State Federation of Animal Care and Control Agencies.

Spaying or neutering pets helps to reduce overpopulation while providing health and behavioral benefits. In 2003, the number of dogs and cats brought into Federation shelters increased to 125,000. 25 Percent were euthanized because of homelessness.

The Federation, comprised of more than 50 animal organizations throughout the state that include humane societies, animal shelters, animal control agencies and smaller animal groups, was formed in 1908. It is dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals and advancing the humane ethic in Washington State.

Plates can be issued only to registered passenger vehicles, light duty pickups, trailers, motorcycles and campers in the state of WA. Plate numbers are assigned sequentially and automatically by the DOL computer system. The earlier you are at a DOL office, the lower license plate number you will be assigned. Beginning March 1, 2007, plates will be allowed to be personalized. For questions or to locate vehicle licensing offices visit https://wws2.wa.gov/dol/vsagents .

Internationally-known artist, Brian Basset, author of the nationally-syndicated "Adam at Home" and "Red and Rover" cartoon strips designed the artwork Ann Labé of Vancouver coordinated the statewide program.

For more information, contact Gail Mackie, 534-8133

FAQ's

Q. When will the Pet Friendly special license plate go on sale?
A. The new plate may be purchased at all vehicle licensing office locations at the opening of business on Monday, January 3, 2006. Please visit https://wws2.wa.gov/dol/vsagents/ to locate your local vehicle licensing office.

Q. Can I purchase a Pet Friendly license plate for all of my vehicles?
A. Yes. DOL will issue plate(s) to any vehicle registered in your name. Plates are available for registered passenger vehicles, light duty pickups, trailers, motorcycles and campers.

Q. Will the Pet Friendly plate(s) be given out upon initial purchase?
A. No. Plate(s) will be mailed from the Olympia Headquarters Licensing Office within two business days of your application being processed in your local vehicle licensing office.

Q. How much do the new Pet Friendly plates cost?
A. The original cost to purchase a Pet Friendly plate(s) is $40.00 plus any applicable licensing fees. When the vehicle registration becomes due, you will need to pay an additional $30.00 to keep the Pet Friendly plate(s) on your vehicle even if you have not had the plate(s) for a full year. The Department of Licensing highly recommends that you renew your vehicle registration at the same time you purchase your new special license plate or wait to purchase the plates when your registration is due. To determine the total cost due, contact your local vehicle licensing office. To locate your local vehicle licensing office visit https://wws2.wa.gov/dol/vsagents/.

Q. When will I know what Pet Friendly plate number I will be issued?
A. Once you have paid for your new plate, a new registration will be printed that will identify your new license plate number. Plate numbers are assigned sequentially and automatically by the Department of Licensing computer system. No vehicle licensing agent can override the Department of Licensing's computer system to give a specific number.

Q. Can I personalize my Pet Friendly special license plate?
A. No. Currently, the law does not permit the Department of Licensing to personalize a special license plate. However, beginning March 1, 2007 you will be allowed to personalize this special license plate.

Q. Will plates be issued numerically in the order in which they are applied for?
A. Yes. The plates will be issued in numerical order by the main Department of Licensing computer system. However, the first 25 plates will be pre-assigned by the Federation.

Q. Do I need anything special to purchase this plate?
A. You must provide your Washington State Driver's License or Identification card with your current vehicle registration. You may also be required to complete an Address Verification form, if the department has not previously verified your current vehicle record address.

Q. Can I purchase a new plate even if my vehicle is not due to be renewed until months after the plate becomes available?
A. Yes. You can purchase a new plate at any point during your registration period. However, the Department of Licensing highly recommends that you renew your vehicle registration at the same time you purchase your new special license plate or wait to purchase the plates when your registration is due. Otherwise, your initial special plate fee will be valid for less than one year.

Q. Can I buy a Pet Friendly plate as a gift for someone else?
A. No, not unless you and the recipient are both registered owners of the vehicle that will bear these plates.

Q. What happens to the special plates when I sell my vehicle?
A. The special plates are issued to the individual and are not transferable to another person. If you sell your vehicle and purchase a new vehicle, you may pay a transfer fee and transfer the plates to your new vehicle. In you choose not to keep your Pet Friendly plates, you may leave them on the vehicle and the new vehicle owner will take possession of those plates with the purchase of the vehicle.

Q. If I purchase Pet Friendly plates, do the special plate fees benefit the sponsoring organization of the plates?
A. Yes. After the state has been reimbursed for the cost to implement this new special plate, $28.00 of the initial and annual plate renewal fee will benefit the Pet Friendly programs identified in law.