Photography Business Permit Requirements in Tacoma, WA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Also useful for opening a business bank account and separating personal and business finances. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

2. FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Photography)

   Required if you offer commercial aerial photography using drones (unmanned aircraft systems). Must pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an approved testing center. Operating commercially without this certificate can result in significant fines. This is a federal requirement enforced by the FAA regardless of state.

   Official government source

   $175 (exam fee)·2–4 weeks to study and schedule exam

   $175 (exam fee)

   2–4 weeks to study and schedule exam

1. Washington — No State Photography License Required

   Washington does not require a state-issued license or certification to offer paid photography services. Photography is an unregulated profession at the state level — there is no state board or licensing agency that certifies photographers in Washington.

   Official government source

   N/A·N/A

   N/A

   N/A

2. Washington Department of Revenue — Business License (includes sales tax)

   Washington requires photographers to collect Business & Occupation (B&O) tax on services and retail sales tax on tangible photographs. The combined rate in Tacoma is 6.5% state + 3.8% local. Register with the Washington Department of Revenue (a single Business License registration covers both B&O and sales tax).

   Official government source

   Free to $25 (registration fee)·Immediate to 1 week (online)

   Free to $25 (registration fee)

   Immediate to 1 week (online)

1. Tacoma — General Business License / Occupational Tax Certificate

   Most businesses operating within Tacoma must obtain a general business or occupational tax certificate from the city or county. This applies to photography studios and freelance photographers with a commercial location. Home-based photographers may also need a Home Occupation Permit to conduct client sessions or operate a studio from their residence. Check with the Pierce County licensing office for specific requirements.

   Official government source

   $50–$400/year depending on city fee schedule and gross revenues·1–3 weeks

   $50–$400/year depending on city fee schedule and gross revenues

   1–3 weeks

2. Tacoma — Commercial Photography / Film Permit (Public Locations)

   If you conduct paid photography shoots in public spaces (parks, streets, city-owned plazas, or other public property) in Tacoma, you may need a commercial photography or film permit. These permits are required to manage use of public spaces for commercial purposes and to ensure public safety. Requirements vary by location, crew size, and duration. Contact the Tacoma film office, parks department, or city clerk for specifics.

   Official government source

   $25–$500 depending on location, duration, and crew size·3–10 business days

   $25–$500 depending on location, duration, and crew size

   3–10 business days

Official Sources

• Tacoma Business Licensing
• Washington Department of Revenue — Business License (includes sales tax)
• FAA — Become a Drone Pilot (Part 107)

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