Washington State Legislature Passes 
Neighborhood Electric Vehicle Legislation

Senate Bill 5450

SCCD’s Jim Armstrong test drives a Dynasty IT, made in British Columbia, Canada.  These and other neighborhood electric vehicles can now be licensed for use on streets in Washington State.

Law makers in Washington State took another step in the promotion of cleaner transportation with passage of Senate Bill 5450, which allows for the licensing of neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) for on-road use. 

Neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) are essentially four-wheeled electric vehicles with a top speed of 25 miles per hour.  With passage of the law, NEVs may access roadways having a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less.  NEVs must be properly licensed and display a vehicle license plate, vehicle operators must hold a valid driver’s license and must comply with motor vehicle insurance requirements.  Local  governments have discretion to control access to particular streets within their jurisdiction, but may not prohibit NEV access to streets having a speed limit of 25 miles per hour.

The bill was signed by the Governor on Friday, May 16, 2003.

A few of the many supporters of SB5450 joined Governor Gary Locke for the signing of the bill.

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