Offering Private Trips in Washington State

Washington requires a limousine carrier license to transport passengers on a prearranged contract basis in a qualifying limousine vehicle. A carrier must have a valid license before advertising, selling, or providing limousine service. The following is a starting summary. Review the Washington Department of Licensing’s official limousine licensing information before applying or offering trips.

Insurance requirements

Each vehicle must be covered by liability insurance with at least $1,050,000 in combined single-limit coverage. The certificate of insurance must identify the insured business, the insurer, the policy dates, and the year, make, and VIN of each covered vehicle. The insurer must be approved to do business in Washington State.

Vehicle requirements

A qualifying vehicle must be chauffeur-driven, unmetered, and unmarked. A limousine does not have to be a stretch limousine. Many ordinary SUVs may qualify as executive SUVs if they seat 3 to 6 passengers behind the driver and have a wheelbase of at least 112 inches. Executive sedans, vans, minivans, and other specified vehicle types may also qualify under their own criteria. Each vehicle needs the required registration, inspection, vehicle certificate, and limousine decal. Check your particular vehicle against the state’s vehicle requirements before assuming it qualifies.

Application requirements

Apply for a limousine carrier license through Washington’s Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service. The application includes a Business License Application, a chauffeur addendum, and documents for each vehicle, including its registration, insurance certificate, and inspection report. The business name must match across the application, registrations, and insurance documents. Application and vehicle fees apply. The carrier must also keep records showing that each chauffeur meets Washington’s requirements, including age, a valid Washington driver license, driving and background checks, defensive-driving training, drug testing, and medical certification. Consult the state’s application instructions for the complete steps and forms.