Anyone convicted of a sex offense under Washington law has to register as a sex offender in Washington.
Sex Offenses - Washington Courts
Here are the most commonly charged sex offenses in Washington, which can can be found in RCW 9A.44.128.
- Rape in the First Degree
- Rape in the Second Degree
- Rape in the Third Degree
- Rape of a Child in the First Degree
- Rape of a Child in the Second Degree
- Rape of a Child in the Third Degree
- Child Molestation in the First Degree
- Child Molestation in the Second Degree
- Child Molestation in the Third Degree
- Sexual misconduct with a minor in the first degree
- Sexual misconduct with a minor in the second degree
- Incest in the First Degree
- Incest in the Second Degree
- Communication with a minor for immoral purposes
- Commercial Sexual Abuse of a Minor
- Promoting Commercial Sexual Abuse of a Minor
- Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
- Indecent Liberties
- Voyeurism in the First Degree
- Custodial Sexual Misconduct in the First Degree
- Criminal trespass against children
- Failure to register as a sex offender or kidnapping offender ifthe person has a prior conviction for a failure to register offense
- Promoting Prostitution in the First Degree if the person has a prior conviction for promoting prostitution
- Promoting Prostitution in the Second degree ifthe person has a prior conviction for promoting prostitution
Additionally, you have to register as a sex offender if you have been convicted of a felony (i.e. robbery or kidnapping) with a finding of sexual motivation
You also have to register if you have been convicted of any gross misdemeanor offense that constitutes an attempt to commit a felony sex offense.
Sex Offenses - Non-Washington Courts
You have to register if you have been convicted of an out-of-state offense that triggered a registration requirement in that state.
Example: When you lived in Alaska, you were convicted of a crime that carried a lifetime registration requirement under Alaska law. You move to Grant County on March 1, 2022. You have to register at the local sheriff's office within three (3) business days.
You also have to register if you have been convicted in federal, military, or tribal court of an offense for which you would be required to register had you committed the offense in a Washington state court.
