Learn how to get your dyed diesel user license, file a tax return, and more.
Access online fuel tax services
The Taxpayer Access Point (TAP) online system is an easier and faster way to manage your fuel tax accounts. Register your account through TAP.
Who needs a license?
You need a license if you drive on public roads or highways using special dyed fuel. Dyed diesel users are government agencies or organizations we approve, such as:
- Public school districts
- Nonprofit educational organizations
- Government agencies
How to get your license
- Complete a Dyed Diesel User Application.
- Send the completed application to the address or fax number on the form.
- Once we process your application, we'll send you a copy of:
- Your license
- Your first tax return
- Instructions
Recordkeeping requirements
You need to keep detailed mileage records for each vehicle using dyed fuel on public roadways. These records must include on-road and off-road use on a daily basis.
How to file your tax return
Complete a Dyed Diesel Fuel User Tax Return and:
- If you're including a payment, mail your completed return and a check to:
Prorate and Fuel Tax
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9048
Olympia, WA 98507-9048 - If you're sending only your return (without a payment), mail or fax it to:
- Mail:
Fuel Tax Section
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9228
Olympia, WA 98507-9228 - Fax: 360-570-7839 or 360-586-9729
- Mail:
For more information about completing your return, see Dyed Diesel Tax Return Instructions.
Filing quarters and due dates
| Tax return quarter | Due date for filing* |
|---|---|
| First quarter: January, February, March | April 25 |
| Second quarter: April, May, June | July 25 |
| Third quarter: July, August, September | October 25 |
| Fourth quarter: October, November, December | January 25 |
*Tax returns must be postmarked the next working day if any of the due dates fall on a weekend or a Washington State holiday.
Late payments
| If we don't receive your payment by | You'll owe |
|---|---|
| Due date | 10% penalty on the tax owed |
| First day of the following month | 1% interest per month |
Refund for tax-paid non-dyed (clear) diesel
If you paid taxes on at least 41 gallons of fuel in the last 13 months, you may be eligible for a refund if you used the fuel for:
- Boating
- Construction
- Farming
- Logging
- Landscape or lawn maintenance
- Export
- Auxiliary equipment (such as the dumping mechanism on a dump truck or the boom on a boom truck)
Visit the fuel tax refunds page to see if you qualify.