The purpose of this chapter is to establish procedures for obtaining approval for the use of a distinctive departmental, office, agency, institutional or commission insignia in marking of state-owned or controlled vehicles and for permitting exceptions to the vehicle marking requirements.

Agencies—As used in this chapter, the word "agencies" includes state departments, offices, agencies, boards, commissions[,] or institutions financed in whole or in part by funds appropriated by the legislature.

Agencies may request approval of a distinctive insignia for use in lieu of the state seal in marking vehicles. A standard decal must include the words "State of Washington," agency's name and "for official use only." The request for approval shall be sent to the director of enterprise services. A scale drawing in color, or other example, shall accompany the request. The director or designee will approve or deny the request and notify the agency.

(1) Requests for exceptions shall be forwarded to the director of enterprise services by the head of the agency owning or controlling the vehicle. Requests for exceptions normally will not be granted unless the vehicle is used more than 50% of the time for law enforcement, confidential public health work, public assistance fraud or support investigative purposes.

(2) Vehicles leased or rented on a casual basis for a period less than ninety days and not issued a state exempt license plate need not be marked.

(3) Vehicles issued confidential license plates under the provisions of section 2, chapter 169, Laws of 1975 1st ex. sess. and chapter 46.08 RCW, are exempt from marking requirements.