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Register as a Telecom Company

Who Must Register

The UTC regulates and registers companies that provide telecommunications services for hire, sale, or resale in Washington state.

These service providers do not need to register:

  • City-owned networks and public utility districts that provide telecommunications;
  • Shared telephone providers in apartment buildings, resorts, etc.
  • Systems integrators, who resell some services as part of an equipment package, or
  • Companies with some presence in Washington but no customers in the state.

When to Register

After registering the business, and before beginning operations in Washington state.

How to Register

  1. Register the company as a business in Washington.
    1. See the Doing Business web page at access.wa.gov.
    2. If the company will be digging, hanging cable, etc., additional licenses such as a contractor's license may be necessary. The company may register with the UTC while obtaining other licenses.
  2. Fill out the UTC Registration Application (DOC).
    1. Remember to check the correct box under "Competitive Classification" if the company faces competition. Competitive companies are subject to minimal regulation. Non-competitive companies are not.
    2. Provide the UBI number from the Business Licensing Services at 1-800-451-7985.
  3. Obtain or prepare a balance sheet and an annual report (if available) for the company.
    1. Audited financials are not needed for registration, but a balance sheet is required at a minimum.
    2. The financial information filed should show that the company is financially capable of providing the services it plans to offer.
    3. If the company is a new subsidiary, it can use the parent company's financial information if the parent also provides a letter guaranteeing the new company's obligations.
  4. Submit the information to the UTC electronically through the Records Center Web Portal. For more details on filing, visit our Online Records Center. For assistance, contact the Records Center at 360-664-1234 or records@utc.wa.gov.
  5. If UTC staff have questions, they will contact the company representative at the number listed on the application. If not, the staff will send a letter and certificate within 30 days of the application submission.
    1. Upon receipt of the application, a confirmation certificate with a docket number will be sent to the company. Check the status of the registration or print a backup copy of the certificate by entering this docket number on our main web page.
  6. Remember to file an annual report and pay the required annual regulatory fees.

Form

To file forms and cover letters online, visit our Electronic Filing webpage.

Rules and Statutes

Washington State laws and rules governing telecommunications companies include: