Get your license: Amateur mixed martial arts participant in combative sports

Apply for an amateur martial arts participant license online or by mail.

What is amateur mixed martial arts?

Amateur mixed martial arts is a combative sport that includes all forms of full-contact martial arts or self-defense. Weapons are not allowed. Participants use kicks, punches, blows, or other techniques. Participants don’t try to injure or disable an opponent. The intent is to defeat an opponent or win by decision, knockout, technical knockout, or submission.

Amateur mixed martial arts doesn't include:

  • Tae kwon do
  • Karate
  • Judo
  • Sumo
  • Jujitsu
  • Kung fu
  • Kickboxing
  • Muay Thai

Who needs a license?

You'll need a license if you:

  • Meet our definition of an amateur (see below), and
  • Compete in amateur mixed martial arts events, except when the event takes place in an amateur mixed martial arts training facility licensed by us.

What is an amateur participant?

We define an amateur participant as anyone who has never competed for any purse or other winnings of $50 or less. This includes training expenses for participating in a combative sporting event. 

How to apply

Follow the steps below to apply for an amateur martial arts participant license.

1. Meet the requirements

You must be at least 18 years old to be licensed.

2. Complete all the necessary forms

3. Submit your application

Submit your application online

Get your license faster by applying online!

Log into SecureAccess Washington (SAW)

Don't have a SAW account? Learn how to create a SAW account.

Submit your application by mail

Mail your forms and a check or money order for the license fee (payable to the Department of Licensing) to:

Combative Sports Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 35001
Seattle, WA 98124-3401

Need additional help? Here's how to contact us:

call Phone: 360-664-6644
(TTY: Call 711)
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