(1) In any case of a valid sale or transfer of the ownership of any vehicle, the right to the certificates properly transferable therewith, except as provided in RCW 46.16.280, and to the vehicle license plates passes to the purchaser or transferee. It is unlawful for the holder of such certificates, except as provided in RCW 46.16.280, or vehicle license plates to fail, neglect, or refuse to endorse the certificates and deliver the vehicle license plates to the purchaser or transferee.

     (2)(a) If the sale or transfer is of a vehicle licensed with current standard issue license plates, the vehicle license plates may be retained and displayed upon a vehicle obtained in replacement of the vehicle so sold or transferred. If a person applies for a transfer of the plate or plates to another eligible vehicle, the plates must be transferred to a vehicle requiring the same type of plate. A transfer fee of ten dollars must be charged in addition to all other applicable fees. The transfer fees must be deposited in the motor vehicle fund.

     (b) If the sale or transfer is of a vehicle licensed by the state or any county, city, town, school district, or other political subdivision entitled to exemption as provided by law, or, if the vehicle is licensed with personalized plates, amateur radio operator plates, medal of honor plates, disabled person plates, disabled veteran plates, prisoner of war plates, or other special license plates issued under RCW 46.16.301 as it existed before amendment by section 5, chapter 291, Laws of 1997, the vehicle license plates therefor shall be retained and may be displayed upon a vehicle obtained in replacement of the vehicle so sold or transferred.

[2004 c 223 § 3; 1997 c 291 § 4; 1986 c 18 § 18; 1983 c 27 § 2; 1961 c 12 § 46.16.290. Prior: 1937 c 188 § 39; RRS § 6312-39; 1931 c 138 § 2; 1929 c 99 § 3; 1921 c 96 § 8; 1919 c 59 § 5; 1917 c 155 § 5; 1915 c 142 § 8; RRS § 6319.]