Charter and Excursion Bus companies provide passenger transportation that:
- begins and ends in Washington state,
- is for compensation,
- is pre-arranged, and
- uses vehicles manufactured to carry nine or more passengers (including the driver).
Common services these companies offer include:
- Charter bus service that a group reserves under one contract. The group makes an agreement with the company on the time and location of departure and return.
- The company offers transportation to an event, such as a sports game or concert. The company sets the time and location of the departure and return. Individuals reserve seats in the vehicle to go to the event.
All charter and excursion bus companies need a permit from the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC).
You don't need a Charter and Excursion 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.
- 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.
- Have an Auto Transportation Bus permit issued by the UTC.
- Have a Non-Profit Bus permit issued by the UTC.
Still not sure what type of permit you need? Contact us by email transportation@utc.wa.gov or call (360) 664-1222.
How to Apply for or Update a Permit
Update the name or corporate structure on a permit
Transfer permit to a new company
Pay your fee online using the Make a Payment Now web page.
Forms
How 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
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.
Contact Licensing Services
Email transportation@utc.wa.gov
Mailing address:
Utilities and Transportation Commission
P.O. Box 47250
Olympia, WA 98504-7250