Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you operate as an LLC, corporation, or have employees. Free from the IRS. Even sole proprietors may benefit from obtaining an EIN to keep business and personal finances separate.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Washington State Department of Licensing — Real Estate Broker License

   Washington calls its entry-level real estate license a Broker license. Applicants must complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education, pass the Washington Real Estate Broker Exam (administered by PSI), and apply to the Washington State Department of Licensing. Must affiliate with a licensed designated broker.

   Official government source

   $138.25 (exam fee) + $223 (license fee) + $300–$600 (pre-licensing education)·4–12 weeks

   $138.25 (exam fee) + $223 (license fee) + $300–$600 (pre-licensing education)

   4–12 weeks

2. Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

   Most real estate brokerages require agents to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects against claims of negligent acts or omissions in real estate transactions. Some states mandate it; most brokerages require it. Coverage typically starts at $100,000 per occurrence.

   Official government source

   $300–$800/year·1–5 business days

   $300–$800/year

   1–5 business days

1. City of Seattle — Business License Tax Certificate (if operating a brokerage)

   Individual real estate brokers in Seattle are licensed at the state level through the Washington DOL. If operating an independent brokerage, a Seattle Business License Tax Certificate is required.

   Official government source

   $100–$500/year (brokerage only)·1–3 weeks

   $100–$500/year (brokerage only)

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• Seattle Business License Tax
• Washington DOL — Real Estate Broker

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