Can I sell a car in Washington with an out-of-state title?

Yes. We buy vehicles with out-of-state titles regularly — Oregon and Idaho titles especially, given where our buy centers sit. The vehicle usually needs a VIN inspection before it can be titled in Washington, and we handle that as part of the transaction.

Why the VIN inspection exists

When a vehicle from another state is brought into Washington's title system, the state verifies that the vehicle identification number on the car matches the number on the out-of-state title. It is a fraud check, not a judgment about your vehicle, and it is routine.

This is part of the paperwork we take care of. You do not need to arrange it yourself before coming to see us.

What to bring

The out-of-state title, signed appropriately, and a valid photo ID. If there is a lien on the title, bring your lender's information and a ten-day payoff quote — the process is the same as any financed vehicle.

If you have a current registration from the issuing state, bring that too. It is not always required, but it speeds things up.

Oregon and Idaho sellers

Our Washougal buy center, at Westlie Ford, serves the Vancouver and greater Portland metro on both sides of the Columbia River. Our Moses Lake buy center regularly buys from Idaho residents. Selling us a car from out of state is normal for us — bring your title and let us do the rest.

Requirements can vary depending on the issuing state and the vehicle's history. Call 360-423-1700 or start an offer online and we'll tell you exactly what applies to your vehicle.

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Frequently asked questions

Do you buy cars titled in Oregon or Idaho?

Yes. Our Washougal buy center serves the Portland metro and our Moses Lake buy center regularly works with Idaho sellers.

Who arranges the VIN inspection?

We do. It is part of the paperwork we handle when a vehicle comes into Washington's title system from another state.

Can I sell an out-of-state vehicle that still has a loan?

Yes. We pay the lender directly and coordinate the title release, the same as with a Washington-titled vehicle.

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