Washington is one of the few states that issues a statewide business license. A Business License Application (BLA) allows businesses to establish an account with multiple Washington state agencies, including the Departments of Revenue, Employment Security, and Labor & Industries. In addition, many local jurisdictions also require a general business license (also known as a business license tax certificate). Businesses may also need to register with the Washington Secretary of State.

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  • Washington overview
  • Business licenses by industry
  • Business licenses by county
It is important to understand all licensing and registration requirements when doing business in Washington State. Most businesses are required to obtain a business license through the Washington Department of Revenue. Various state licensing authorities provide licensing for certain professions and business activities. In addition, cities commonly require a general business license, though occasionally this license may be administered at the county level. There may also be special license, registration, and permit requirements based on the type of business and business activity at the city or county level.

To learn more about the specific registration and licensing requirements in Washington, click on the Washington industry or county tabs for more information or to order the proper forms.


For more information, please contact CT Corporation for a consultation with a business licensing specialist.

 

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Resources

  • Change to Business Compliance Requirements
    Infographic
    Compliance
    February 08, 2024
    Change to Business Compliance Requirements
    Whether you're launching, running, or dissolving a business, find out which events can trigger compliance obligations to avoid business risks.
    Learn More
  • How to get a business license
    Article
    Compliance
    January 17, 2024
    How to get a business license
    Whatever your business type, you’ll need to obtain the right business licenses or permits. Read more in "How to get a business license".
    Learn More
  • Food industry license requirements
    Article
    Compliance
    January 09, 2024
    Food industry license requirements
    Learn more about the state and federal license requirements for the food industry.
    Learn More
  • Third-party logistics provider licensing requirements
    Article
    Compliance
    October 02, 2023
    Third-party logistics provider licensing requirements
    Learn more about third-party logistics provider licensing requirements and the drug supply chain security act.
    Learn More
  • Appraisal Management Company

    License Type:
    Washington Appraisal Management Company License

    License Issued By:
    Appraisal Management Company Program

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $2400 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $2,400 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Architectural Firm

    License Type:
    Washington Architectural Firm License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing: State Board of Architects

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $278 plus $6.50 surcharge fee *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $284.50 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Charitable Solicitation Registration

    License Type:
    Washington Charitable Solicitation Registration

    License Issued By:
    Secretary of State's Charities Program

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $60 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals/Reports

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $60 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals/reports.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Collection Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Collection Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $90 for business license *, $850 main office fee *, $550 fee for any branch offices *
    $1325 for re-registration of main office *, $850 per branch office *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $869 fee*, a surety bond, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon the location of the office. a 2.5 % credit card processing fee may apply
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State and/or obtaining an Operator/Manager License.
  • Commercial Painter

    License Type:
    Commercial Painter License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor and Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $113.40 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $113.40 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Compounding Pharmacy

    License Type:
    Washington Compounding Pharmacy License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Health

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $540 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $540 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Cosmetology

    License Type:
    Washington Cosmetology License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $110 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $110 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Debt Management

    The State of Washington (WA) does not require a Debt Management License. However, if your business is providing debt management services in Washington, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Durable Medical Equipment

    The State of Washington (WA) does not require a Durable Medical Equipment License. However, if your business is selling durable medical equipment within Washington, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Electrical Contractor

    License Type:
    Washington Electrical Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Labor & Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $319.20 *

    Other Requirements:
    Triennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $319.20 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and triennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Employment Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Employment Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $783 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $783 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Energy Broker

    The State of Washington (WA) does not require an Energy Broker License. However, if your business is providing energy brokering services in Washington, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Engineering Firm

    License Type:
    Washington Engineering Firm License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $150 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $150 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State and/or obtaining WA Professional Engineer Licenses for certain individuals in your firm.
  • Fertilizer

    The State of Washington (WA) does not require a Fertilizer License. However, if your business is dealing in fertilizer in Washington, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Fertilizer Product Registration

    License Type:
    Washington Fertilizer Product Registration

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Agriculture

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $50 per product *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $50 per product fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Franchise Registration

    License Type:
    Washington Franchise Registration

    License Issued By:
    Securities Division of the Washington Department of Financial Institutions

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $600 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $600 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • General Contractor

    License Type:
    Washington General Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $117.40 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $117.40 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Home Health Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Home Health Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Health

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $2432 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $2,432 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Home Improvement Contractor

    License Type:
    Washington Home Improvement Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor and Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $113.50 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $113.50 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • HVAC Contractor

    License Type:
    Washington HVAC License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor and Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $113.40 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $113.40 fee* extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Insurance Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Insurance Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $60 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $60 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon your home state. An additional convenience fee may apply if filing online.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State and/or obtaining an individual agent/broker license.
  • Mail-Order Pharmacy

    License Type:
    Washington Mail-Order Pharmacy License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Health

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $540 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $540 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated. An additional Control Substances Registration fee may apply.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Manufactured Home Dealer

    License Type:
    Washington Manufactured Home Dealer License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $990 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $990 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Manufactured Home Installer

    License Type:
    Washington Manufactured Home Installer License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $260 *

    Other Requirements:
    Triennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $260 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and triennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Manufactured Home Manufacturer

    License Type:
    Washington Manufactured Home Manufacturer License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $990 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $990 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Money Transmitter

    License Type:
    Washington Money Transmitter License

    License Issued By:
    Division of Consumer Services of the Washington Department of Financial Institutions

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $1000 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $1,000 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Mortgage Broker

    License Type:
    Washington Mortgage Broker License

    License Issued By:
    Division of Consumer Services of the Washington Department of Financial Institutions

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $901 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $901 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Mortgage Lender

    License Type:
    Washington Mortgage Lender License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Financial Institutions

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $155 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $155 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Pawnbroker

    The State of Washington (WA) does not require a Pawnbroker License at the state level. However, if your business is operating a pawnshop in Washington, you may be required to obtain Pawnbroker License at the local level or comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Payday Lender

    License Type:
    Payday Lender License

    License Issued By:
    Division of Consumer Services of the Washington Department of Financial Institutions

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $1035.15 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Reports

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $1035.15 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual reports.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Pesticide Product Registration

    License Type:
    Washington Pesticide Product Registration

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Agriculture

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $390 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $390 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is per product registered.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Pet Shop

    The State of Washington (WA) does not require a Pet Shop License at the state level. However, if your business is operating a pet shop in Washington, you may be required to obtain Pet Shop License at the local level or comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Pharmacy

    License Type:
    Washington Pharmacy License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Health

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $540 *, an inspection

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $540 fee*, an inspection, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated. An additional Controlled Substance Registration fee may apply.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State and licensing your Pharmacist-in-Charge.
  • Plumbing Contractor

    License Type:
    Washington Plumbing Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $113.40 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $113.40 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Private Investigation Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Private Investigation Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $761.80 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $761.80 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon whether the applicant's qualifying agent will be armed or not.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Private Security

    License Type:
    Washington Private Security License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 to $360 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $350 to $360 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon whether guards will be armed.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Professional Engineer

    License Type:
    Washington Professional Engineer License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $65 or $110 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $65 or $110 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon method of licensure.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Residential Painter

    License Type:
    Washington Residential Painter License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $113.40 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $113.40 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Roofing Contractor

    License Type:
    Washington Roofing Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Labor and Industries - Contractor Registration

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $113.50

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $113.50 extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Sales Tax ID

    License Type:
    Washington Sales Tax ID

    License Issued By:
    State of Washington Business Licensing Service

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $19 *

    Other Requirements:
    Tax Returns

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $19 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Secondhand Dealer

    The State of Washington (WA) does not require a Secondhand Dealer License at the state level. However, if your business is dealing in secondhand goods in Washington, you may be required to obtain Secondhand Dealer License at the local level or comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Solar Contractor

    License Type:
    Washington Solar Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Labor & Industries

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $306.10 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $306.10 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Staff Leasing Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Staff Leasing Agency Business License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Revenue's Business Licensing Service

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $19 *

    Other Requirements:
    N/A

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $19 fee*, and extensive supporting documentation.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Talent Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Talent Agency Business License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Revenue's Business Licensing Service

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $19 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $19 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Tattoo Parlor

    License Type:
    Washington Tattoo Parlor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Licensing

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $300 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $300 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Telemarketing

    License Type:
    Washington Telemarketing License

    License Issued By:
    State of Washington Business Licensing Service

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $91 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $91 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Title Agency

    License Type:
    Washington Title Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $55 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $55 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Tobacco Retail

    License Type:
    Washington Tobacco Retail License

    License Issued By:
    Washington Department of Revenue Business Licensing Services
    Evaluation by Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board's Enforcement Division

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $108 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $108 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State and/or obtaining a Sales Tax ID.
  • Tobacco Wholesale

    License Type:
    Washington State Tobacco Wholesale or Distributor license

    License Issued By:
    State of Washington Business Licensing Service

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $650 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $650 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Unemployment Tax ID

    License Type:
    Washington Unemployment Tax ID

    License Issued By:
    Washington Employment Security Department

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $15 *

    Other Requirements:
    Tax Returns

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this ID, the State of Washington requires an application, a $15 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Wholesale Drug Distributor

    License Type:
    Washington Wholesale Drug Distributor License

    License Issued By:
    Washington State Department of Health

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $825 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Washington requires an application, a $825 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the Washington Secretary of State.
  • Withholding Tax ID

    The State of Washington (WA) does not have a personal income tax or require a Withholding Tax ID. However, if your business is paying wages to employees in Washington, you may still be required to withhold Federal Income Tax and comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Business Licenses in Washington (WA) Counties

The following counties in Washington require a basic business license. Click on the county name below to learn more :

  • Asotin

    Jurisdiction:

    Asotin County, WA

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the Building and Planning Department 

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Benton

    Jurisdiction:

    Benton County, WA

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the Planning Department 

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Franklin

    Jurisdiction:

    Franklin County, WA

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business Registration issued by the Planning Department 

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • King

    Jurisdiction:

    King County, WA

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Permitting and Environmental Review Planning Department 

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Pend Oreille

    Jurisdiction:

    Pend Oreille County, WA

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the Community Development Department 

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Pierce

    Jurisdiction:

    Pierce County, WA

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the Auditor's Department 

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Snohomish

    Jurisdiction:

    Snohomish County, WA

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the Auditor's Department 

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

The county may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites prior to submission.

All other Washington Counties, not listed above, do not issue Basic Business Licenses. However, your business may be required to obtain a Basic Business License at the state or local level or comply with other licensing laws, based on your business activity and location.

Note: The above refers only to basic business licenses, which are required for any type of business operating within the county. For information regarding industry specific licenses issued in Washington, contact us today!

Let CT Corporation take care of the paperwork for you! We will prepare and file your application, and we will follow up with the State until you have received your Washington state license. As licensing experts, we will streamline the entire licensing process, making it as painless as possible.

For more information, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

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