(1) The department, county auditor or other agent, or subagent appointed by the director shall not issue an initial registration certificate for a motor vehicle to a natural person under this chapter unless the natural person at time of application:

(a) Presents an unexpired Washington state driver's license; or

(b) Certifies that he or she is:

(i) A Washington state resident who does not operate a motor vehicle on public roads; or

(ii) Exempt from the requirement to obtain a Washington state driver's license under RCW 46.20.025.

(2) The department must set up procedures to verify that all owners meet the requirements of this section.

(3) A person falsifying residency is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable only by a fine of five hundred twenty-nine dollars.

(4) The department may adopt rules necessary to implement this section, including rules under which a natural person applying for registration may be exempt from the requirements of this section if the person provides evidence satisfactory to the department that he or she has a valid and compelling reason for not being able to meet the requirements of this section.

Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.