How do I Obtain a Washington State Business License?

You must obtain the proper licenses in Washington state prior to opening a business.

Business owners must obtain a business license from most city, county and state governments to operate legally within a specific jurisdiction. Businesses in industries regulated by the federal government, such as financial institutions, may require additional federal licenses. Failure to obtain the proper business license before opening could put you at risk of being shut down and lead to expensive fines. The Washington State Department of Licensing business licensing guide lists which licenses are required for a particular business in the state and where to obtain them.

Instructions

1. Open the business license guide on the Washington State Department of Licensing website. Enter a keyword that describes your businesses activity or select a letter or number from the "What is Your Business Activity?" menu to display a list of activities. Find and highlight the description in the list that most closely describes your business and click "Select Activity" and press "Continue."

2. Select the city and county where your business will operate on the guide's "Location Selection" page. Highlight the "Out-of-state - No WA Location" link if your business is outside of Washington. Highlight the location, click "Select Location" to add it to your list and press "Continue." You can add up to five locations on this screen.

3. Choose your business type, identify the type of employees at your business and click "Continue."

4. Answer any additional questions about functions particular to your business on the next screen and press "Continue."

5. Download the licensing forms individually from each state agency website linked on your customized guide sheet and print the sheet for your reference. You can request the licensing forms be sent by fax or mail.

6. Complete the forms for each required license and mail or return them in person to the local, state or federal agency indicated on the form. Don't forget to include the required licensing fee.

Tips & Warnings

• Call the Washington State Department of Licensing at 360-664-1400 if you don't want to use the online licensing guide.

References

• Washington State Department of Licensing: Business License Guide
• Business: Business Licenses and Permits
• Score: Obtaining a Business License or Permit

Resources

• Washington State Department of Licensing: Business Licensing Contacts and Forms