OpenExamsFREE PRACTICE — ANY EXAM

Washington Bail Bond — Requirements & Free Practice

US-WA · License preparation

150 free questions · Answer explanations · No signup required

Choose what to practice

Start with an exam below. Your examination requirements depend on your application pathway. View licensing requirements

Choose an exam or combined practice to begin.

Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Bail Bond Agency License

Washington licensing under Chapter 18.185 RCW and Chapter 308-19 WAC.

Licensing authority: Washington State Department of Licensing · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Agents and qualified agents: four annual hours under WAC 308-19-302. Recovery licensees and endorsees: eight annual hours under 308-19-330, plus annual weapon recertification if applicable. Agency/branch renewal includes the responsible qualified agent; retain required records.
Existing license
Renew the existing licence or endorsement yearly.
Renewal fee
Pay the renewal fee on or before expiry; DOL permits renewal up to 120 days early.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial issuance by examination
Qualified Agent Exam (practice unavailable)
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Dol training only opt out
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Page 3: Qualification criteria","name":"Bail Bond Agency/Branch Office License Application","quote":"To qualify for a license, you must do one of the following: (check one)\n\n Attach proof of 3 years (6,000 hours) experience in Washington State as a manager, supervisor, or\n administrator in the bail bond business and proof of 12 hours training as described in WAC 308-19-300.\n Request to take the written state exam by selecting a location from the list below or provide proof of\n twelve hours of bail bond agency training administered by an approved instructor.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"f06965a91631a073d39fad5a906c27d900a38cd46cb61733e515f8cf5ebbf393"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/forms/view/692002","version":"BB-692-002 (R/8/25)WA"},"value":"The form offers a written state exam or twelve hours of agency training. RCW 18.185.030(1)(a)-(b) outranks this form and requires the qualified-agent examination or three years of qualifying experience; training alone does not remove the statutory exam for an applicant lacking that experience."}
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Experience
Applicant without three years of qualifying managerial experience must pass the qualified-agent examination under RCW 18.185.030(1)(a).
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
Initial issuance by managerial experience
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Experience
Applicant proves the three-year, 6,000-hour managerial-experience alternative; this replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while the agent exam remains an alternative to twelve hours of training.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
Late renewal within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Agents and qualified agents: four annual hours under WAC 308-19-302. Recovery licensees and endorsees: eight annual hours under 308-19-330, plus annual weapon recertification if applicable. Agency/branch renewal includes the responsible qualified agent; retain required records.
Existing license
Renew the existing licence or endorsement yearly.
Renewal fee
Pay renewal fee and late penalty within one year after expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse license by equivalency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Supply application, fees, verification, transfer affirmation, fingerprints and background documentation; affirm no pending regulatory investigation or discipline.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Equivalence
DOL must determine substantially equivalent licensing requirements have been met and the applicant otherwise qualifies. Existing licences, training, experience and examinations are qualifications; this route identifies no new Washington examination.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military spouse
Hold an active professional licence in good standing and move to Washington due to the spouse's military transfer; the DOL rule also includes registered domestic partners.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse return from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Complete current-cycle continuing education and other program conditions; DOL may allow ninety days to finish education.
Inactive license
An existing licence in good standing was placed inactive during a spouse or registered domestic partner's deployment outside Washington.
Return deadline
Within six months of return, request active status and pay applicable renewal fees.
Military status maintenance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Maintenance
No renewal or continuing education while in military status; return courtesy notices with current orders.
Military service
The existing active licence remains in full force during service after a written military-status request and service orders.
New license after expiration cancellation by examination
Qualified Agent Exam (practice unavailable)
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Dol training only opt out
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Page 3: Qualification criteria","name":"Bail Bond Agency/Branch Office License Application","quote":"To qualify for a license, you must do one of the following: (check one)\n\n Attach proof of 3 years (6,000 hours) experience in Washington State as a manager, supervisor, or\n administrator in the bail bond business and proof of 12 hours training as described in WAC 308-19-300.\n Request to take the written state exam by selecting a location from the list below or provide proof of\n twelve hours of bail bond agency training administered by an approved instructor.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"f06965a91631a073d39fad5a906c27d900a38cd46cb61733e515f8cf5ebbf393"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/forms/view/692002","version":"BB-692-002 (R/8/25)WA"},"value":"The form offers a written state exam or twelve hours of agency training. RCW 18.185.030(1)(a)-(b) outranks this form and requires the qualified-agent examination or three years of qualifying experience; training alone does not remove the statutory exam for an applicant lacking that experience."}
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
New license after expiration cancellation by managerial experience
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
New license after inactive cancellation by examination
Qualified Agent Exam (practice unavailable)
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Dol training only opt out
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Page 3: Qualification criteria","name":"Bail Bond Agency/Branch Office License Application","quote":"To qualify for a license, you must do one of the following: (check one)\n\n Attach proof of 3 years (6,000 hours) experience in Washington State as a manager, supervisor, or\n administrator in the bail bond business and proof of 12 hours training as described in WAC 308-19-300.\n Request to take the written state exam by selecting a location from the list below or provide proof of\n twelve hours of bail bond agency training administered by an approved instructor.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"f06965a91631a073d39fad5a906c27d900a38cd46cb61733e515f8cf5ebbf393"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/forms/view/692002","version":"BB-692-002 (R/8/25)WA"},"value":"The form offers a written state exam or twelve hours of agency training. RCW 18.185.030(1)(a)-(b) outranks this form and requires the qualified-agent examination or three years of qualifying experience; training alone does not remove the statutory exam for an applicant lacking that experience."}
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
New license after inactive cancellation by managerial experience
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
Reactivate unexpired inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply for active status and comply with Chapter 18.185 RCW; expired inactive licences instead require new licensing.
Continuing qualifications
Maintain applicable agency affiliation, bond, existing qualifications, education and certifications.
Inactive license
Existing licence was surrendered as inactive, has not expired and is not revoked or suspended.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after bond restored
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Bond suspension
Agency licence suspended for failure to maintain the required bond.
Restoration
Restore the bond in full force and maintain other licensing qualifications.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after ebt compliance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
DOL may reinstate after compliance is restored and the holder otherwise remained eligible; DOL instructs disabling EBT acceptance at ATMs and point-of-sale machines.
Suspension
Suspended for electronic-benefit-card noncompliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reissuance after support order compliance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Release
DOL receives the release establishing compliance; all other reinstatement requirements continued to be met during suspension.
Suspension
Suspended for certified support-order noncompliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return from military status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation fee
Pay applicable renewal fees and supply orders, discharge papers or DD-214 if requested.
Education
Continuing education applies after the first post-discharge renewal; missed deadlines invoke normal late-renewal/cancellation rules.
Return deadline
Notify DOL within six months of honorable discharge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Bail Bond Agent License

Washington licensing under Chapter 18.185 RCW and Chapter 308-19 WAC.

Licensing authority: Washington State Department of Licensing · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Agents and qualified agents: four annual hours under WAC 308-19-302. Recovery licensees and endorsees: eight annual hours under 308-19-330, plus annual weapon recertification if applicable. Agency/branch renewal includes the responsible qualified agent; retain required records.
Existing license
Renew the existing licence or endorsement yearly.
Renewal fee
Pay the renewal fee on or before expiry; DOL permits renewal up to 120 days early.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial issuance
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Dol faq conflict
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Bail bond licenses: test requirement","name":"Frequently asked questions: Bail bonds","quote":"We require an exam for bail bond agents who don't have 3 years of experience.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"b0b124785fb1f2fe32db94fa8ef6774279fd2a10307a58e5b3437bfcf8261d85"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/professional-licenses/bail-bond-agency/frequently-asked-questions-bail-bonds","version":"DOL official page checked October 2, 2026, read with the pinned controlling provisions applicable September 22, 2026"},"value":"The DOL FAQ states: \"We require an exam for bail bond agents who don't have 3 years of experience.\" The controlling WAC twelve-hour training alternative governs; retain this conflicting implementing instruction for the applicant."}
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Late renewal within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Agents and qualified agents: four annual hours under WAC 308-19-302. Recovery licensees and endorsees: eight annual hours under 308-19-330, plus annual weapon recertification if applicable. Agency/branch renewal includes the responsible qualified agent; retain required records.
Existing license
Renew the existing licence or endorsement yearly.
Renewal fee
Pay renewal fee and late penalty within one year after expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military scra license portability
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
Supply a notarized affidavit verifying identity, complete truthful statements, knowledge of Washington scope and requirements, compliance and good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Background check
DOL may conduct background checks and require fingerprints.
Compact
An applicable interstate compact governs instead of SCRA portability.
Covered license
Good standing with no revocation, discipline, pending unprofessional-conduct investigation or surrender under investigation.
Dol prior use condition
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Eligibility: prior-use instruction","name":"Military SCRA out-of-state professional license portability","quote":"Use the professional license at some point during the 2 years prior moving to Washington.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"819e5f143db94686aa3e31e64bdb8dfa9184ce27a7fa26de98a8961898b2b4fb"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/license-and-registration-rules-military-personnel-and-veterans/business-and-professional-licenses-military-personnel-spouses-and-domestic-partners/military-scra-out-state-professional-license-portability","version":"DOL official page checked October 2, 2026, read with the pinned controlling provisions applicable September 22, 2026"},"value":"DOL states a two-year prior-use condition. Section 705A, rewritten by P.L. 118-159, defines covered licences exhaustively without that former prior-use condition. The federal statute controls; retain the DOL instruction for applicants."}
Military orders
A servicemember or spouse relocates to Washington under military orders; provide orders and the spouse's marriage certificate if applicable.
Military spouse license by equivalency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Supply application, fees, verification, transfer affirmation, fingerprints and background documentation; affirm no pending regulatory investigation or discipline.
Equivalence
DOL must determine substantially equivalent licensing requirements have been met and the applicant otherwise qualifies. Existing licences, training, experience and examinations are qualifications; this route identifies no new Washington examination.
Military spouse
Hold an active professional licence in good standing and move to Washington due to the spouse's military transfer; the DOL rule also includes registered domestic partners.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse return from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Complete current-cycle continuing education and other program conditions; DOL may allow ninety days to finish education.
Inactive license
An existing licence in good standing was placed inactive during a spouse or registered domestic partner's deployment outside Washington.
Return deadline
Within six months of return, request active status and pay applicable renewal fees.
Military status maintenance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Maintenance
No renewal or continuing education while in military status; return courtesy notices with current orders.
Military service
The existing active licence remains in full force during service after a written military-status request and service orders.
New license after expiration cancellation
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
New license after inactive cancellation
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Reactivate unexpired inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply for active status and comply with Chapter 18.185 RCW; expired inactive licences instead require new licensing.
Continuing qualifications
Maintain applicable agency affiliation, bond, existing qualifications, education and certifications.
Inactive license
Existing licence was surrendered as inactive, has not expired and is not revoked or suspended.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after ebt compliance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
DOL may reinstate after compliance is restored and the holder otherwise remained eligible; DOL instructs disabling EBT acceptance at ATMs and point-of-sale machines.
Suspension
Suspended for electronic-benefit-card noncompliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reissuance after support order compliance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Release
DOL receives the release establishing compliance; all other reinstatement requirements continued to be met during suspension.
Suspension
Suspended for certified support-order noncompliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return from military status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation fee
Pay applicable renewal fees and supply orders, discharge papers or DD-214 if requested.
Education
Continuing education applies after the first post-discharge renewal; missed deadlines invoke normal late-renewal/cancellation rules.
Return deadline
Notify DOL within six months of honorable discharge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Qualified Agent License

Licensed responsible qualified agent of an agency or branch; a qualifying owner or corporate manager serves without an additional license fee, using the agency application and qualified-agent qualification.

Licensing authority: Washington State Department of Licensing · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Agents and qualified agents: four annual hours under WAC 308-19-302. Recovery licensees and endorsees: eight annual hours under 308-19-330, plus annual weapon recertification if applicable. Agency/branch renewal includes the responsible qualified agent; retain required records.
Existing license
Renew the existing licence or endorsement yearly.
Renewal fee
Pay the renewal fee on or before expiry; DOL permits renewal up to 120 days early.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial issuance by examination
Qualified Agent Exam (practice unavailable)
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Dol training only opt out
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Page 3: Qualification criteria","name":"Bail Bond Agency/Branch Office License Application","quote":"To qualify for a license, you must do one of the following: (check one)\n\n Attach proof of 3 years (6,000 hours) experience in Washington State as a manager, supervisor, or\n administrator in the bail bond business and proof of 12 hours training as described in WAC 308-19-300.\n Request to take the written state exam by selecting a location from the list below or provide proof of\n twelve hours of bail bond agency training administered by an approved instructor.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"f06965a91631a073d39fad5a906c27d900a38cd46cb61733e515f8cf5ebbf393"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/forms/view/692002","version":"BB-692-002 (R/8/25)WA"},"value":"The form offers a written state exam or twelve hours of agency training. RCW 18.185.030(1)(a)-(b) outranks this form and requires the qualified-agent examination or three years of qualifying experience; training alone does not remove the statutory exam for an applicant lacking that experience."}
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Experience
Applicant without three years of qualifying managerial experience must pass the qualified-agent examination under RCW 18.185.030(1)(a).
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
Initial issuance by managerial experience
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Experience
Applicant proves the three-year, 6,000-hour managerial-experience alternative; this replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while the agent exam remains an alternative to twelve hours of training.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
Late renewal within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Agents and qualified agents: four annual hours under WAC 308-19-302. Recovery licensees and endorsees: eight annual hours under 308-19-330, plus annual weapon recertification if applicable. Agency/branch renewal includes the responsible qualified agent; retain required records.
Existing license
Renew the existing licence or endorsement yearly.
Renewal fee
Pay renewal fee and late penalty within one year after expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military scra license portability
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
Supply a notarized affidavit verifying identity, complete truthful statements, knowledge of Washington scope and requirements, compliance and good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Background check
DOL may conduct background checks and require fingerprints.
Compact
An applicable interstate compact governs instead of SCRA portability.
Covered license
Good standing with no revocation, discipline, pending unprofessional-conduct investigation or surrender under investigation.
Dol prior use condition
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Eligibility: prior-use instruction","name":"Military SCRA out-of-state professional license portability","quote":"Use the professional license at some point during the 2 years prior moving to Washington.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"819e5f143db94686aa3e31e64bdb8dfa9184ce27a7fa26de98a8961898b2b4fb"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/license-and-registration-rules-military-personnel-and-veterans/business-and-professional-licenses-military-personnel-spouses-and-domestic-partners/military-scra-out-state-professional-license-portability","version":"DOL official page checked October 2, 2026, read with the pinned controlling provisions applicable September 22, 2026"},"value":"DOL states a two-year prior-use condition. Section 705A, rewritten by P.L. 118-159, defines covered licences exhaustively without that former prior-use condition. The federal statute controls; retain the DOL instruction for applicants."}
Military orders
A servicemember or spouse relocates to Washington under military orders; provide orders and the spouse's marriage certificate if applicable.
Military spouse license by equivalency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Supply application, fees, verification, transfer affirmation, fingerprints and background documentation; affirm no pending regulatory investigation or discipline.
Equivalence
DOL must determine substantially equivalent licensing requirements have been met and the applicant otherwise qualifies. Existing licences, training, experience and examinations are qualifications; this route identifies no new Washington examination.
Military spouse
Hold an active professional licence in good standing and move to Washington due to the spouse's military transfer; the DOL rule also includes registered domestic partners.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse return from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Complete current-cycle continuing education and other program conditions; DOL may allow ninety days to finish education.
Inactive license
An existing licence in good standing was placed inactive during a spouse or registered domestic partner's deployment outside Washington.
Return deadline
Within six months of return, request active status and pay applicable renewal fees.
Military status maintenance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Maintenance
No renewal or continuing education while in military status; return courtesy notices with current orders.
Military service
The existing active licence remains in full force during service after a written military-status request and service orders.
New license after expiration cancellation by examination
Qualified Agent Exam (practice unavailable)
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Dol training only opt out
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Page 3: Qualification criteria","name":"Bail Bond Agency/Branch Office License Application","quote":"To qualify for a license, you must do one of the following: (check one)\n\n Attach proof of 3 years (6,000 hours) experience in Washington State as a manager, supervisor, or\n administrator in the bail bond business and proof of 12 hours training as described in WAC 308-19-300.\n Request to take the written state exam by selecting a location from the list below or provide proof of\n twelve hours of bail bond agency training administered by an approved instructor.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"f06965a91631a073d39fad5a906c27d900a38cd46cb61733e515f8cf5ebbf393"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/forms/view/692002","version":"BB-692-002 (R/8/25)WA"},"value":"The form offers a written state exam or twelve hours of agency training. RCW 18.185.030(1)(a)-(b) outranks this form and requires the qualified-agent examination or three years of qualifying experience; training alone does not remove the statutory exam for an applicant lacking that experience."}
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
New license after expiration cancellation by managerial experience
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
New license after inactive cancellation by examination
Qualified Agent Exam (practice unavailable)
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Dol training only opt out
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-02","locator":"Page 3: Qualification criteria","name":"Bail Bond Agency/Branch Office License Application","quote":"To qualify for a license, you must do one of the following: (check one)\n\n Attach proof of 3 years (6,000 hours) experience in Washington State as a manager, supervisor, or\n administrator in the bail bond business and proof of 12 hours training as described in WAC 308-19-300.\n Request to take the written state exam by selecting a location from the list below or provide proof of\n twelve hours of bail bond agency training administered by an approved instructor.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"f06965a91631a073d39fad5a906c27d900a38cd46cb61733e515f8cf5ebbf393"},"url":"https://dol.wa.gov/forms/view/692002","version":"BB-692-002 (R/8/25)WA"},"value":"The form offers a written state exam or twelve hours of agency training. RCW 18.185.030(1)(a)-(b) outranks this form and requires the qualified-agent examination or three years of qualifying experience; training alone does not remove the statutory exam for an applicant lacking that experience."}
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
New license after inactive cancellation by managerial experience
Age
At least 18 years old under RCW 18.185.020.
Agency relationship
Be employed by a licensed agency or licensed as an agency; DOL also accepts a job offer.
Application fee
Submit the DOL application and required fee.
Bond
File and maintain a $10,000 surety bond or deposit under RCW 18.185.070; the director may waive the bond under adopted rules.
Bond activity
For surety bonds, maintain an OIC Surety Producer License with current affiliations; for property bonds, identify courts approving placing property bonds. The surety-producer credential is a condition, not another profession's exam leaf.
Business location license
Maintain a Washington physical location and Department of Revenue business licence.
Cancellation
Canceled licences and endorsements require a new application and current initial licensing, exam and education qualifications.
Criminal history
DOL may withhold for a directly related conviction in the preceding ten years when public protection warrants it, under RCW 18.185.020(2).
Entity documents
Provide applicable partnership and corporate incorporation documents and officer/department addresses; supply foreign-entity registrations where applicable.
Managerial experience
Three years in Washington as a manager, supervisor or administrator in bail bonds or a related field, at least 2,000 compensated hours each year; written employer certifications or personal-knowledge certifications establish it. This replaces the additional qualified-agent exam, while agent-level exam or training requirements remain.
Military equivalent training
Military training or experience satisfies requirements unless DOL finds it not substantially equivalent, under RCW 18.185.310.
Passing score
If examined, score at least 85%; wait seven days after failure before retesting.
Prelicense training alternative
Twelve hours of training within six months replaces the written agent examination under WAC 308-19-100(4) and 300(1): eight approved instructional hours plus four hours of laws-and-rules self-study or formal instruction. The examination is retained as the currently offered exam involved in initial issuance; this opt-out is an applicant condition.
Proof of instruction
WAC 308-19-300(2) separately states proof of eight hours of approved instruction must accompany the agent or qualified-agent application.
Responsible agent
The qualifying sole proprietor, principal partner or corporate manager, officer or chief operating officer serves as qualified agent without an extra licence fee.
Surety property disclosures
Disclose surety, attorney in fact and build-up fund details, or courts approving property bonds.
Reactivate unexpired inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply for active status and comply with Chapter 18.185 RCW; expired inactive licences instead require new licensing.
Continuing qualifications
Maintain applicable agency affiliation, bond, existing qualifications, education and certifications.
Inactive license
Existing licence was surrendered as inactive, has not expired and is not revoked or suspended.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after ebt compliance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
DOL may reinstate after compliance is restored and the holder otherwise remained eligible; DOL instructs disabling EBT acceptance at ATMs and point-of-sale machines.
Suspension
Suspended for electronic-benefit-card noncompliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reissuance after support order compliance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Release
DOL receives the release establishing compliance; all other reinstatement requirements continued to be met during suspension.
Suspension
Suspended for certified support-order noncompliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return from military status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation fee
Pay applicable renewal fees and supply orders, discharge papers or DD-214 if requested.
Education
Continuing education applies after the first post-discharge renewal; missed deadlines invoke normal late-renewal/cancellation rules.
Return deadline
Notify DOL within six months of honorable discharge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Washington Bail Bond Agent Exam

Provider
Washington State Department of Licensing
Format
Online written examination
Exam questions
70 multiple-choice questions
Passing score
85%
Examination outline
  • Federal laws
    • Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
  • State laws
    • Courts of record (RCW 2)
    • Firearms and dangerous weapons (RCW 9.41)
    • Washington criminal code (RCW 9A)
    • Bail and appearance bonds (RCW 10.19)
    • Warrants and arrests (RCW 10.31)
    • Uniform criminal extradition act (RCW 10.88)
    • Power of attorney (RCW 11.94)
    • Bail bond agents (RCW 18.185)
    • Notaries public (RCW 42.44)
    • Insurance (RCW 48)
  • State rules
    • Bail bond agencies and bail bond agents (WAC 308-19)
  • Business and professional information
    • Audits and recordkeeping
    • Contracts
    • General insurance practices
Examination sources

Qualified Agent Exam

Provider
Washington State Department of Licensing
Format
Online written examination
Exam questions
70 multiple-choice questions
Passing score
85%
Examination outline
  • Federal laws
    • Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
  • State laws
    • Courts of record (RCW 2)
    • Firearms and dangerous weapons (RCW 9.41)
    • Washington criminal code (RCW 9A)
    • Bail and appearance bonds (RCW 10.19)
    • Warrants and arrests (RCW 10.31)
    • Uniform criminal extradition act (RCW 10.88)
    • Power of attorney (RCW 11.94)
    • Bail bond agents (RCW 18.185)
    • Notaries public (RCW 42.44)
    • Insurance (RCW 48)
  • State rules
    • Bail bond agencies and bail bond agents (WAC 308-19)
  • Business and professional information
    • Audits and recordkeeping
    • Contracts
    • General insurance practices
    • Business licensing requirements (for qualified agents only)
  • The prelicense bail bond agent training topic requirements
    • The basics of bail bonds
    • Responsibilities of a bail bond agent
    • Understanding power of attorney
    • Court jurisdiction
    • Articulated offense
    • Understanding the liability in surety bonds
    • Role in criminal justice
    • The rights of the clients
    • Ethics pertaining to how to treat your clients
    • Sexual harassment between agents and clients
    • Transporting clients
    • Phone service in jails
    • How to be in compliance with jail requirements
    • Collect call companies
    • Harassment and no contact orders of the client
    • Collateral
    • General recordkeeping
    • Contracts
    • Basic requirements of bail bond recovery agents
    • Understanding of the privacy laws
    • The basics of notaries
    • Basic understanding of the trust account
    • Application of the Consumer Protection Act
  • Additional subjects for qualified bail bond agent license applicants
    • Recordkeeping and filing
    • Business licensing, taxation and related reporting and recordkeeping requirements
    • Personnel management
    • Laws relating to employment
    • The Americans with Disabilities Act
Examination sources