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.
Prom season is just around the corner, so we’re reminding kids and parents interested in hiring a limousine company to check them out first. You might find a great deal on the Internet or see a great ad in the phone book, but that doesn’t guarantee a limo company is properly licensed.
Do your homework before you put your money down. DOL is teaming up with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to send a poster with this message to every high school in the state. We don’t want anyone to be taken for a ride by an unlicensed limo company.
To find out if the limousine service you want to use is licensed, visit the Department of Licensing website, click on the business licensing tab, and select, check Status of Business or Professional License.
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