State RV Rules: Washington

For international travellers, US state-level RV rules can affect insurance validity, what you may legally drive, and where you can camp overnight. Washington State has specific regulations and local practices around vehicle size, winter driving, ferries, and public camping that may differ from European norms. Understanding these rules before you collect your campervan can help prevent fines, access issues, or insurance complications during your trip.

This guide focuses on the practical points that matter most to visitors from Europe and other regions: driving licence rules, road laws, campground systems, measurements, and everyday logistics. It assumes you may have campervan experience at home, but are new to US rules and terminology.

Driving licences and legal requirements

Licence types

In Washington State, visitors are generally allowed to drive an RV or campervan using:

Your full home-country driving licence, and
An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence is not in English.

The IDP acts as a translation rather than a replacement licence. Acceptance can vary by situation, but rental companies usually require both documents to be shown at pickup. You can read more in the driving licence FAQ.

Washington does not usually require a special category or commercial licence for standard rental RVs under 26,000 lbs (about 11,800 kg), though regulations are ultimately enforced by state authorities.

Minimum age

Most US rental suppliers set a minimum driver age of 21 or 25, depending on vehicle type and insurer rules.

Road rules and driving differences

Speed limits

Speed limits in Washington are posted in miles per hour (mph), not kilometres per hour.

Urban streets: often 25–30 mph (40–48 km/h)
Rural highways: around 55–60 mph (88–97 km/h)
Interstates (major multi-lane motorways): up to 70 mph (113 km/h)

RV drivers are usually expected to follow the same posted limits as cars unless signs indicate vehicle-specific restrictions.

Right turns on red

In Washington, turning right at a red traffic light is commonly permitted after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. Restrictions may apply in certain urban areas.

Keep right

On multi-lane highways, slower traffic is expected to keep to the right-hand lane, with left lanes mainly used for overtaking. Enforcement and driver behaviour may vary by area.

Vehicle size, weights, and measurements

All official US measurements use imperial units rather than metric.

Height is measured in feet and inches
Weight is measured in pounds
Fuel is sold in US gallons (1 US gallon ≈ 3.8 litres)

Most rental RVs fit within Washington’s standard size limits, but you should always verify your vehicle height and length—particularly when entering older towns, parking structures, tunnels, or ferry routes.

Seat belts and child safety

Washington law requires:

Seat belts to be used in all designated seating positions while the vehicle is in motion
Children to use approved child or booster seats until they meet age or height thresholds set by law

Rules on where passengers may legally sit can depend on vehicle design and seating certification. Side-facing seats in some RV living areas are often restricted from use while driving—always follow your rental company’s guidance.

Camping rules and overnight parking

Campground types explained

Private campgrounds: Privately operated parks, often with amenities and paid reservations.
State parks: Government-run parks with managed campground systems.
Full hookups: A campsite providing electricity, fresh water, and a sewer connection.
Dump station: A designated facility for emptying the RV’s waste tanks.

Boondocking in Washington

Boondocking refers to camping without hookups, typically on public land. In Washington, limited dispersed camping may be permitted in some national forest or bureau-managed areas, but rules are location-specific, time-limited, and subject to change.

Overnight parking in cities, residential streets, or highway rest areas is often restricted or locally regulated. Always check posted signs and local authority guidance rather than assuming it is allowed.

Ferries and mountain driving

Washington’s ferry system forms part of the state highway network. RVs are generally accepted, but travellers should note:

Fares are typically based on vehicle length rather than passenger numbers
Specific routes may impose height, length, or weight limits

In winter, some mountain passes may require winter tyres or the carrying of snow chains. Requirements, enforcement, and rental company permissions vary—always check current state advisories and your rental agreement before travelling in snowy conditions.

Insurance and breakdown assistance

US RV insurance structures differ from many European policies. Rental packages usually include:

Mandatory third-party liability cover
Optional damage or collision protection

Coverage limits, deductibles, and roadside assistance provisions vary between suppliers, so confirm details carefully before pickup.

Arrival cities and one-way trips

International travellers may begin or end their RV journey outside Washington, arriving by flight or arranging a one-way rental. Common gateway cities include Los Angeles and Denver, chosen based on route, season, and vehicle availability.

Planning checklist for Washington

Carry your passport, driving licence, and IDP where applicable
Confirm vehicle height and length in advance of ferry crossings
Research campground reservation systems, especially in peak season
Monitor seasonal weather forecasts and mountain pass advisories

Once you understand Washington’s RV rules and local variations, you can focus on planning distances, campground stays, and rest days. When you are ready, you can check current RV availability across the USA on USARVRentals.com.

State RV Rules: Washington