If you are planning to be engaged in the business of selling firearms at either wholesale or retail or who has, or is required to have a Federal Firearms License is also required to have a Washington Firearms Dealers License. RCW 9.41.010(10) is the Washington State Statute applicable to this regulation. It is easy to apply for a Washington Firearm Dealers License at the law enforcement agency located in the town where your business will be located. While you are applying, you also will be fingerprinted and a criminal history check will be conducted prior to your license being issued. If this is your first Washington Firearms License, it will take approximately 30 days to complete the background check and approve or disapprove your application. You will need to bring along with you a copy of your Federal Firearms License and a copy of your Washington State Business License. You also will need to bring picture ID with you. The cost of the Washington State license is $125.00 and can be paid by check or money order. The Washington State Firearms License is valid for one year from the date of issue. It is your responsibility to renew it as necessary because you will not receive a reminder notice from the state.

If you move your business within the same law enforcement jurisdiction, you will not have to pay a transfer fee. However, if you are moving your business to a new jurisdiction, you will need to contact the law enforcement agency and obtain a new license. Remember, if you open a new store you will need a license for that store’s location. For additional information regarding obtaining a gun dealers license, you can contact the Department of Licensing in Olympia, Washington.