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Washington · Auto Dealers · 2026 renewal guide

How to Renew Your Washington Auto Dealer License

Washington auto dealers must complete 5 hours of board-approved continuing education every year, as required by Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services.

Written by the TradesCE compliance team · Verified against the Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services rule on September 4, 2026.

CE hours
5 hours
Renewal cycle
Every year
Next deadline
Per license
Exam to renew
Not required

Who has to renew

This guide covers Washington auto dealers holding a All licensees license. Requirements are set by Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services.

When to renew

Washington auto dealers licenses renew every year, on the schedule your board assigns to your license. Continuing education must be complete before you submit the renewal. (https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.70.079)

The continuing education Washington requires

Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services requires 5 hours of approved continuing education every year. The hours must cover these topics:

  • Types of vehicle dealer licenses
  • Completing dealer applications
  • Regulatory agencies
  • FTC regulations
  • Unlawful dealer activities
  • Motor vehicle advertising laws
  • Vehicle titling, registration and electronic permitting
  • Vehicle warranties
  • Standard industry forms
  • Trust accounts
  • Dealer plate usage
  • Consignment sales
  • Vehicle financing

How to renew, step by step

  1. 1

    Confirm your license class and renewal date

    Washington sets auto dealers requirements by license class (All licensees). Check the class printed on your license, then note your renewal date — renewals run the schedule your board assigns to your license.

  2. 2

    Complete 5 hours of board-approved continuing education

    Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services requires 5 hours every year, including Types of vehicle dealer licenses, Completing dealer applications, Regulatory agencies, FTC regulations and other required topics. Do not leave it for the last week — completions must be on file before the deadline.

    See the Washington auto dealers course
  3. 3

    Save your certificate of completion

    Download the certificate the moment you finish and keep it with your license records.

  4. 4

    Make sure your hours reach the board

    In Washington, you keep your certificate of completion and present it to the board if asked.

  5. 5

    Renew with Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services

    Submit your renewal and pay the renewal fee before the deadline. A late renewal usually means a late fee, and a lapsed license can mean re-applying from scratch.

    Go to Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services

Washington auto dealer renewal FAQ

How many continuing education hours do Washington auto dealers need?
Washington auto dealers must complete 5 hours of board-approved continuing education every year, as set by Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services.
What topics are required for Washington auto dealers continuing education?
Washington State Department of Licensing, Dealer and Manufacturer Services requires coverage of: Types of vehicle dealer licenses; Completing dealer applications; Regulatory agencies; FTC regulations; Unlawful dealer activities; Motor vehicle advertising laws; Vehicle titling, registration and electronic permitting; Vehicle warranties; Standard industry forms; Trust accounts; Dealer plate usage; Consignment sales; Vehicle financing.
Can Washington auto dealers complete continuing education online?
Yes. Board-approved online courses count toward the Washington requirement; timed seat-time and completion records satisfy audit requirements.

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