How to get your license: Auction company
Who needs a license?
You do if your business:
- Sells or offers to sell goods or real estate.
- Arranges, sponsors, or manages auctions.
- Is a sole proprietorship and your sales exceed $25,000.
Requirements
Meet all of the auction company certificate of registration requirements
What you'll need
- A SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account to apply online.
- If you don't have one, you'll be able to create one before you start.
- For help visit How to set up account access.
- A Unified Business Identification (UBI).
- Apply for a business license (Department of Revenue) if you don't have one.
- Notarized Auction Company Certification Statement.
- Surety bond. The amount depends on the gross value of the goods you sell in Washington State:
- For existing companies your gross sales during the previous calendar year.
- For new companies an estimate of your gross sales during the current year.
| Gross sales | Surety bond |
|---|---|
| $0-$24,999.99 | $5,000 |
| $25,000-$49,999.99 | $10,000 |
| $50,000-$99,999.99 | $15,000 |
| $100,000-$499,999.99 | $20,000 |
| $500,000 or more | $25,000 |
How to apply
Online
- Prepare your documents for upload: notarized Auction Company Certification Statement
- Create your SAW account to apply and pay your fees online.
By mail
Send the following:
- Completed Auctioneer/Auction Company Registration Application.
- Notarized Auction Company Certification Statement.
- Check or money order for the application fee (payable to the Department of Licensing)
Mail to:
Auctioneer and Auction Company Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3856
Seattle, WA 98124-3856
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3856
Seattle, WA 98124-3856
Bond requirements
The amount of the bond you'll need depends on the gross value of the goods you sell in Washington State:
- For existing companies, your gross sales during the previous calendar year.
- For new companies, an estimate of your gross sales during the current year.
For veterans, military personnel, and partners
Your military experience or training might help you meet licensing requirements. You may also be able to get a temporary license if you're moving here with a current license from another state. For more information visit military assistance.
If you're a U.S. veteran, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement of your fees. For more information, visit Get paid back for test fees.
Questions? Need help?
- Email us: plssunit@dol.wa.gov
- Call us: 360.664.6636
