Don’t be taken for a ride by an unlicensed limo company.
Prom season is upon us, and many high school students will be trying to make their special night even more fun by hiring a limo. The Department of Licensing reminds parents and students to check to see if the limo they hire is licensed by the state.
“If you’re planning to make your event extra special by using one of Washington’s quality limo services, we suggest you do your homework,” Department of Licensing Director Teresa Berntsen said. “Don’t be taken for a ride by an unlicensed limousine company. Always check references and make sure the company is licensed before you hire them.”
Limousine operators in Washington are required to be licensed, carry sufficient liability insurance, and undergo annual safety inspections by the Washington State Patrol or City of Seattle. Chauffeurs must be at least 21 years of age, hold a valid driver license, complete a chauffeur training course and pass a State Patrol background check.
Berntsen said a website, Craigslist ad, or a simple advertisement in the phone book or newspaper does not guarantee the operator is licensed. Unlicensed limousine operators may not meet state insurance or safety requirements and it can be difficult to hold them accountable if problems arise.
To find out if the limousine service you plan to use is licensed by the state, visit the Department of Licensing website at www.dol.wa.gov/business/limousine/. Scroll down to the area for consumers, click on “Look up a business or professional license” and then “Search business license.” If you do not see the business listed as a limousine company, please call 360-705-6744. They can help you verify that the limousine company is properly licensed.
DOL Video: Renting a Limo / Ride in Style, Ride Safely
Whether you are a high school student getting ready for prom, or someone planning a special event, if you are going to be hiring a limo, make sure it is licensed by the state.
There are many quality limousine companies to choose from in Washington state. Always check references and make sure the company is licensed before you hire them.
To find out if the limousine service you plan to use is licensed by the state, visit the Department of Licensing website at www.dol.wa.gov/business/limousine/
If you do not see the business listed, or you do not see it listed as a limousine company, please call 360-705-6744 to verify the limousine company is properly licensed.
If you‘re hiring a limo or town car for a prom or another special event, make sure you’re riding safely and in style.
Washington has a lot of licensed limousine companies to choose from. Before hiring one, make sure the limo and the driver are properly licensed by the state.
To find out if the limousine service you plan to use is licensed, visit the Department of Licensing website at www.dol.wa.gov or call 360-664-1414.
The Department of Licensing (DOL) Blog was created to provide Washington citizens with news and other useful information about the agency and issues we are involved in. Views expressed by the authors and users of The DOL Blog are not necessarily those of the Department of Licensing.
Comments posted by users will be reviewed to ensure they comply with DOL’s blog use policy. Comments will not be edited by DOL; only comments that comply with the agency’s policy will be posted.
Posts within The DOL Blog may contain hypertext links or pointers to information created and maintained by other organizations or individuals. These links are included to provide additional information or perspective. DOL does not control or guarantee the accuracy of information contained on linked websites and does not endorse the organizations or individuals that operate them.
Report an inappropriate link.