File a Business License Application

The Business License Application is a simplified form used to apply for many state licenses, registrations, and permits. It’s also used to apply for some city licenses.

Who should file, and when?

You must file a Business License Application when you first start your business, or when you change or update your business. You’ll need to file (or re-file) if you want to:

• Get a state business license or Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number.
• Get a new city license or specialty license (such as a liquor license).
• Change ownership of a business.
• Change business locations or add a new location to your existing business.
• Register or change a trade name.
• Hire employees (including minors and workers in the home).
• Change your unemployment insurance or industrial insurance coverage.

How to file

Online - The fastest way to file!

Online applications are typically processed within two business days. It may take up to 21 days if you file by mail.

1. Complete a Business License Application online. (Must have IE 6.0 and above, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari. Google Chrome is not supported at this time.)
2. Pay with E-check or a MasterCard, Visa, or American Express credit or debit card (gift cards cannot be used).

For certain activities, you should file a paper application.

Paper

1. Complete the Business License Application and any supplemental forms that apply to your business. To find out which supplemental forms you’ll need, see the Business Licensing Guide.
2. Mail your completed application, supplemental forms, and a check or money order payable to “Department of Revenue” for the fees to:
   
   State of Washington
   Business Licensing Service
   PO Box 9034
   Olympia, WA 98507-9034
   OR
   Visit our business licensing office.