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Taxi driver application process and fees
If you will drive for a taxi regional dispatch agency, you will need a regional for-hire driver's license. If you will drive for a transportation network company (TNC), you need a TNC for-hire driver permit.
Regional for-hire driver's license (taxicab drivers)
First time applicants must complete all of the steps below.
If you are renewing your license, complete the application steps only.
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Complete the regional for-hire driver training
Prepare for the exam by first completing the regional for-hire driver training.
Download, print, or screenshot your confirmation of completion to submit with your application.
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Pass the for-hire exam
Pass the for-hire exam by scoring 80% or higher or by answering a minimum of 32 questions correctly. Download, print, or screenshot your confirmation of completion to submit with your application.
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Complete the Defensive Driving Course (DDC)
Email ForHireDriver@kingcounty.gov to get an access code for a discounted course fee. After you receive the access code, visit the training and exam page for log in instructions. Download, print, or screenshot your confirmation of completion to submit with your license application.
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Complete Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Training
Download, print, or screenshot your confirmation of completion of human trafficking awareness and prevention training to submit with your application.
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Submit your application
New and renewal applications can be submitted online through the Seattle Services Portal.
Please note: if your state driver license number has changed since your last application, you will need an appointment with us in order to complete the online process.
First time portal users must complete the registration process (step-by-step details are available).
- Register for a Seattle Services Portal account
- Provide identity verification information to obtain secure access to your records
- Select "Claim Your License Record(s)" to link any existing licenses (for-hire license, medallions, etc.) to your account
During the application process, have a credit or debit card for the license application fee and your Washington State Driver License ready to verify your identity and eligibility. You will also be asked to acknowledge the Disclosure Regarding Background Investigation and to provide a passport quality photo of yourself or take a photo in our office.
Want help? Review how to guides and frequently asked questions or email us at ForHireDriver@kingcounty.gov.
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Display your medallion/license
The medallion license decal with the current license year must be affixed to the outside of the vehicle.
The regional for-hire driver's license enlargement must be visible to passengers inside the vehicle.
Enhanced regional for-hire driver's license
If you choose the enhanced option on your regional for-hire driver's license application, we will help you schedule an appointment with King County Sheriff's Office for fingerprinting. We will provide you with a form to take to your fingerprinting appointment. Once we receive the results of your fingerprint-based background check, we will continue processing your application.
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) certification
To obtain the WAV endorsement on your regional for-hire driver's license, you must submit proof you have successfully completed a director-approved training for providing for-hire transportation services in wheelchair accessible vehicles. After you complete WAV training, you may request to add the WAV endorsement during your initial application process, at renewal, or by submitting an amendment.
Renewal
Your regional for-hire driver's license expires one year from your original application date. Your license must be renewed each year.
Application fees
King County processes applications and collects regional for-hire driver's license fees for King County and on behalf of the City of Seattle.
If you are using a credit card, there is a convenience fee that is charged by our banking service provider. No part of the convenience fee goes to King County.
There are no application fees associated with obtaining a TNC permit. The TNC Licensing and Regulation fee is paid through a per-trip fee of $0.23 (County) or $0.18 (City of Seattle) collected by the TNC. The TNC also pays a $0.10 per-trip fee for the Wheelchair Accessible Services Fund.
| Regional for-hire driver's license (taxi drivers) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual regional for-hire driver's license fee - County | $25 |
| Annual regional for-hire driver's license fee - City | $25 |
| Third-party background check fee | $24 |
| Third-party driving history report fee | $19 |
| Regional For-hire Driver's License Total | $93 |
| Fingerprinting fee (for enhanced licenses only) | $15 |
| Fingerprint-based background check fee (for enhanced licenses only) | $34.25 |
| Enhanced Regional For-hire Driver's License Total | $142.25 |
| Other related fees | Amount |
|---|---|
| License/permit replacement | $5 |
| License late fee - County & City | $17 |
| National Safety Council's DDC online exam The fee is discounted if you add it to your license application. |
$9 if added to application $41.25 direct with DDC |
| City of Seattle Business License | Annual fee varies |