Auto Transportation Buses

Auto transportation companies provide passenger transportation that:

• is for compensation,
• is scheduled,
• may or may not be prearranged, and
• is between set locations or
• is along a fixed route.

Common services these companies offer include:

• transportation between a hotel and an airport or cruise terminal on a set schedule.
• transportation along a fixed route picking up passengers along the way.

All auto transportation companies need a permit from the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC).

You don't need an auto transportation permit if you:

• Only operate limousines as defined by Department of Licensing (DOL) and have a limousine carrier license.
• Act as a For-Hire Driver, such as a taxi or non-emergency medical transportation, and have a license through DOL.
• Drive for a Transportation Network Company, such as Uber or Lyft.
• Provide free transportation between parking lots, hotels, and rental offices.
• Have a Non-Profit Bus permit issued by the UTC.
• Are a public transit agency or operate under exclusive contract with one.
• Transport transient air flight crews.
• Operate as a school bus for public or private schools.

How to Apply for or Update a Permit

1. Download the appropriate form,  

2. Save it to your desktop. 

3. Fill it out. 

4. Submit the form online using the e-filing form. 

5. Pay your fee online using the Make a Payment Now web page. 

Average permit time is about 32 to 66 days if the company turns in a complete application. This time includes a 30-day period when people can file objections. If someone protests, the case goes to a hearing and the decision can take several more months. 

If you cannot e-file, email the form to transportation@utc.wa.gov. 

Permit Application Forms

 The application forms for this industry are currently being reworked. Please email transportation@utc.wa.gov for an application.

Tariff and Time Schedule Templates 

See Tips for Completing the Tariff Template (PDF) and the How to e-File - Auto Transportation web page for tariff filing instructions. 

• Auto Transportation Tariff Template (Word) 
• Auto Transportation Time Schedule Template (Word) 

Fuel Surcharge and Less than Statutory Notice Forms

See the Letter on Fuel Surcharge Filing Requirements (PDF) and Supporting Documents Instructions (Word) for information about fuel surcharge filings. 

• Fuel Surcharge Cover Letter Template (Word) 
  • Fuel Surcharge Cover Letter Filled Out Example (Word) 
• Fuel Surcharge Less than Statutory Notice Form (Word) 
  • Fuel Surcharge Less than Statutory Notice Filled Out Example (Word)
• Fuel Surcharge Tariff Supplement Form (Word) 
  • Fuel Surcharge Tariff Supplement Filled Out Example (Word) 
• Auto Transportation Fuel Surcharge Worksheet (Excel) 
• Less than Statutory Notice Form - for filings other than Fuel Surcharge (Word) 

How to Cancel a Permit

Use the Voluntary Permit Cancellation Request (PDF) to cancel a permit. 

Annual Reports 

State law says transportation companies must file yearly reports and pay fees to the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. If you operated at any time during the year, you must file a report. For more details, visit the Annual Report Forms web page. 

Insurance

• Intrastate Passenger Carrier Insurance Requirements
• Form E Sample (PDF)
• Electronic Insurance Filing

Safety 

The Motor Carrier Safety Program provides safety oversight of privately-owned companies that provide transportation services within Washington state. Visit the Transportation Safety web page for resources on how to achieve a satisfactory motor carrier safety record. 

Uniform System of Accounts

• Uniform System of Accounts for Auto Transportation Companies (PDF) 

Contact Licensing Services

Email transportation@utc.wa.gov

Call (360) 664-1222

Mailing Address: 

Utilities and Transportation Commission 
P.O. Box 47250 
Olympia, WA 98504-7250