First: where is your car?
Call the number on the tow-away sign where you parked, or the police non-emergency line if police ordered the impound. Under RCW 46.55.090, an impounded car has to go to the tow operator's nearest inspected storage location on file with the state. Find registered tow truck operators and storage lots by city.
Who can get it back
- The legal owner or registered owner.
- Someone the registered owner authorizes in writing.
- The owner's insurance company, or a buyer who shows proof of ownership or written authorization.
How you can pay
The operator has to release the car for payment that covers towing, storage and other services, and must accept cash, major bank credit cards, or personal checks drawn on Washington banks. For a check, expect to show two pieces of ID. Stopping payment afterward can cost you twice the fees plus costs.
At the lot
| Ask for an impound hearing | within 10 days |
| Payment the lot must take | cash, cards, WA checks |
| Personal belongings back | on request |
| Viewing your car at the lot | free |
| Earliest auction | 15 days after notice |
| Improper impound | no fees owed |
- You can view your car without charge during normal business hours.
- Your personal belongings must be returned to you on request during normal business hours when you show acceptable ID.
Think the impound was wrong?
Ask for a hearing in the district or municipal court where the car was impounded. The written request, on the required form, has to be received by the court within 10 days of the notice and more than five days before the auction, with a filing fee equal to the district court suit fee. Miss the deadline and you lose the right to a hearing.
- If the court finds the impound improper, you owe no impound, towing or storage fees, and the party that ordered it is liable for them.
- The court won't reduce fees that match the operator's posted or contracted rates.
Don't wait too long
An unclaimed car can be auctioned 15 days after the notice of custody and sale is mailed.
Common questions
How do I get my car out of impound in Washington?
Contact the tow operator (from the tow-away sign or the police), then redeem the car as the owner, with the owner's written permission, or as a buyer with proof of ownership. Pay by cash, major bank credit card or a Washington personal check.
How long do I have to contest an impound in Washington?
Your written hearing request must be received by the district or municipal court within 10 days of the notice, and more than five days before the auction.
Can I get my belongings out of an impounded car in Washington?
Yes. Personal belongings must be returned to the owner or agent on request during normal business hours with acceptable ID, and you can view the car at no charge.
When can an impounded car be auctioned in Washington?
As soon as 15 days after the notice of custody and sale is mailed.
Checked against official sources on October 29, 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the agency or business before you act.