Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5440

Introduced
1/22/25  

Caption

Allowing single license plates for certain vehicles.

Impact

If enacted, SB5440 would modify existing regulations related to vehicle registration and licensing, especially for specific categories of vehicles such as antiques, classic cars, and other designated vehicles. This change is expected to ease the financial burden on owners by allowing them to maintain only one license plate, thereby reducing costs associated with purchasing additional plates. Furthermore, it is anticipated that certain logistical burdens related to vehicle management by Department of Motor Vehicles could be alleviated by the reduction in plate issuance.

Summary

SB5440 aims to allow single license plates for certain types of vehicles, specifically focusing on those that are not typically used on public roads but may need vehicle registration for identification or other purposes. This bill is reflective of broader legislative efforts to simplify regulations surrounding vehicle ownership and reduce expenses associated with maintaining multiple plates. The intention behind the bill is to provide vehicle owners with more flexibility while streamlining the administrative processes related to vehicle registration.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment regarding SB5440 appears cautiously optimistic, with proponents highlighting its potential benefits such as cost savings and administrative efficiencies. Vehicle owners and enthusiasts who own vehicles that do not frequently operate on public roads are particularly in favor of the bill. Nevertheless, there are concerns from some stakeholders regarding the implications of single plate usage on enforcement and identification purposes, especially in the context of law enforcement needs and registration tracking.

Contention

Key points of contention arose primarily around the concerns of reduced visibility and identification of vehicles with only one plate. Some legislators and safety advocates argue that having only one plate might affect law enforcement’s ability to easily identify vehicles involved in incidents or violations. As a result, the discussion around SB5440 highlighted the trade-off between cost-saving measures and public safety considerations, making it clear that while the bill aims for simplification, there are nuanced implications that must be addressed.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1058

Streamlining the licensing process for a commercial driver's license by allowing the department to waive requirements for applicants that previously surrendered the license, allowing the license to be renewed online, and modifying the license test fees.

WA SB5491

Revised for Passed Legislature: Concerning a technical advisory group to study single stairway residential buildings.Revised for 1st Substitute: Allowing for residential buildings of a certain height to be served by a single exit under certain conditions.Original: Allowing for residential buildings of a certain height to be served by a single exit under certain conditions.

WA SB5585

Allowing licensed and certified behavioral health agencies to designate certain individuals as mental health professionals.

WA SB5251

Streamlining the licensing process for a commercial driver's license by allowing the department to waive requirements for applicants that previously surrendered the license, allowing the license to be renewed online, and modifying the license test fees.

WA HB1488

Creating special license plates that support working forests.

WA HB2489

Creating several new special license plates.

WA HB1889

Allowing persons to receive professional licenses and certifications regardless of immigration or citizenship status.

WA SB5590

Creating Mount St. Helens special license plates.

WA HB1489

Creating Mount St. Helens special license plates.

WA HB1647

Creating keep Washington evergreen special license plates.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.