Learn how to get a branch license for your registered tow truck operator business.
You must follow all applicable laws and rules, even if they're not covered below.
Who needs a license?
Each additional vehicle storage or impound area located away from your main business location must be licensed. You must submit a separate application for each registered tow truck operator branch site location.
Tow trucks may only be registered only at the main location.
Before you apply
Before applying for your license, you must get zoning approval for your business and an inspection of your business site.
Fill out the certification and approval form
Complete section A of the Vehicle Transport/Disposal Branch Site Addendum.
Get zoning approval
Have your local zoning authority complete and sign section B of the Vehicle Transport/Disposal Branch Site Addendum.
Schedule an inspection
Before you apply for a license, a law enforcement officer must inspect your business site.
- If you're in a city with more than 5,000 people, contact your local police chief to schedule an inspection
- If you're in a city with& less than 5,000 people, schedule an inspection with the Washington State Patrol
The inspector must complete and sign section B of the Vehicle Transport/Disposal Branch Site Addendum.
How to apply
After you get zoning approval and your inspection is complete, follow the steps below to apply for a registered tow truck operator branch license.
Note: We issue this license, but the Department of Revenue's Business Licensing Service (BLS) processes it. BLS prints it on the business license they provide. They refer to licenses we issue as endorsements to the business license.
1. Add the branch location to your insurance
Update your main location's certificate of insurance with the information below:
- Each branch's "doing business as" name (DBA)
- Each branch's address
2. Complete the required documents
Complete these forms to apply for your business license:
- Business License Application
- Vehicle Transport/Disposal Branch Site Addendum for each branch site location
3. Submit your application
There's no license fee for a registered tow truck branch, so you'll only need to pay the processing fees when you apply. Choose the method that works best for you.
Apply for your license online
You'll receive your license faster by applying and paying online.
Apply online at the Department of Revenue's website.
Apply for your license by mail
Mail your forms and a check or money order for the license and plate fees (payable to the Department of Revenue) to:
State of Washington
Business Licensing Service
PO Box 9034
Olympia, WA 98507-9034