Starting October 1: Some business services are now subject to retail sales tax, as required by state law, ESSB 5814. When you buy these services, vendors should add sales tax to your bill. If you sell these services, you should begin collecting retail sales tax. Learn more about Services newly subject to retail sales tax.
Limousine
You must have a Limousine endorsement to transport passengers on a prearranged, contract basis to a specific destination or for a particular itinerary, in any of the following types of vehicles:
Note: All limousines must be chauffeur-driven, unmetered, and unmarked luxury vehicles.
Vehicle types and requirements
A fine or distinctive automobile that is 30 years old or older.
A four-door sedan with a seating capacity of no more than 3 passengers behind the driver, and a minimum wheelbase of 114.5 inches or meets the federal large car definition and has manufacturer’s suggested retail price greater than $35,000.
A sport utility vehicle with a seating capacity behind the driver of 3–6 passengers and a minimum wheelbase of 116 inches.
A van, minivan, or minibus having a seating capacity of 7–14 passengers behind the driver.
An automobile with a seating capacity of 4–14 passengers in the rear seating area and a maximum wheelbase of 285 inches.
A sport utility vehicle with a seating capacity behind the driver of 4–14 passengers and a maximum wheelbase of 325 inches that has been factory altered beyond the original manufacturer’s specifications.
Driver requirements
A limousine carrier must keep on file and make available for inspection proof that each chauffeur:
- Is at least 21 years of age.
- Holds a valid Washington State Driver License.
- Has passed an initial test and is participating in a random drug testing program.
- Has a satisfactory driving record.
- Completed and passed the 4 (or more) hour National Safety Council Defensive (NSCDD) course.
- Has results of a background check of the chauffeur performed by the Washington State Patrol.
- Has a medical certificate certifying the individual's fitness to be a chauffeur. A new exam and medical certificate is required every 2 years.
When applying for a Limousine Carrier endorsement, make sure:
- The same owner name is on the Business License Application, Vehicle Registration Certificate, and Insurance Certificate.
- The Vehicle Registration Certificate for all vehicles to be used for your business show a Use Class of “F/H”.
- The Certificate of Insurance:
- Includes your policy number.
- Has policy effective and expiration dates that show current coverage.
- Displays the name of the insurance company.
- Shows minimum combined single limit coverage of $1,050,000.
- Shows the year, make and complete VIN number of each car, which must match Vehicle Registration Certificates.
- Lists the certificate holder as State of Washington, Department of Licensing, PO Box 9027, Olympia, WA 98507-9027.
Note: More licensing information can be found in the Business Bulletin, Obtaining Your Limousine Carrier License and Vehicle Certificates.
Vehicle Certificates and Decals
To make any changes to a vehicle certificate, or replace a certificate or decal that was lost or destroyed, submit the request in writing along with a $20 fee per vehicle to:
Business Licensing Service
PO Box 9034
Olympia, WA 98507-9034
Advertising rules
Your Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number must be included on any advertisement for your business.
Licensing requirements and additional supporting documents
- Business License Application.
- Limousine Carrier Chauffer Addendum.
- Gather the following supporting documents:
- Vehicle Registration for each vehicle (copy).
- Certificate of Insurance.
- Vehicle Inspection Report (Washington State Patrol or City of Seattle).
Change in name or address
Complete the For Hire/Limousine Name or Address Change form to report a change or address. When completed, email a copy of this form and any required documents to forhire@dol.wa.gov or fax to 360-570-4954.
State endorsement |
Fee |
---|---|
Limousine Carrier Chauffer Business |
$350 |
Vehicle Certificate and Decal |
$75 per vehicle |
Vehicle Inspection Report |
$25 per vehicle, per inspection |
Additional fees | Fee |
---|---|
State tax registration | $0 |
Registering your business name as a trade name | $5 |
Business License Application fee | Variable fee |
How to apply
Online
Add a state endorsement to your business
Apply for a new business license
Online assistance
Setting up your business licensing and tax account
How to add a state endorsement
By mail
Complete the licensing requirements above and mail to:
Olympia, WA 98507-9034