Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 18.185.170 — Unlicensed activity — Criminal penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.185.170. Unlicensed activity — Criminal penalties.
(1) Any person who performs the functions and duties of a bail bond agent in this state without being licensed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, or any person presenting or attempting to use as his or her own the license of another, or any person who gives false or forged evidence of any kind to the director in obtaining a license, or any person who falsely impersonates any other licensee, or any person who attempts to use an expired or revoked license, or any person who violates any of the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
(2) A person is guilty of a gross misdemeanor if the person owns or operates a bail bond agency in this state without first obtaining a bail bond agency license.
(3) The owner or qualified agent of a bail bond agency is guilty of a gross misdemeanor if the owner or qualified agent employs any person to perform the duties of a bail bond agent without the employee having in the employee's possession a permanent bail bond agent license issued by the department.
(4) After December 31, 2005, a person is guilty of a gross misdemeanor if the person:
(a) Performs the functions of a bail bond recovery agent without first obtaining a license from the department and entering into a contract with a bail bond agent as required by this chapter; or, in the case of a bail bond recovery agent from another state, the person performs the functions of a bail bond recovery agent without operating under the direct supervision of a licensed bail bond recovery agent as required by this chapter; or
(b) Conducts a planned forced entry without first complying with the requirements of this chapter.
Notes
Legislative recognition—2004 c 186: See note following RCW
18.185.010.
Effective dates—2002 c 86: See note following RCW
18.08.340.
Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 18.185.170
What does Revised Code of Washington § 18.185.170 cover?
Section 18.185.170 ("Unlicensed activity — Criminal penalties.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Washington § 18.185.170?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 18.185.170" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Washington law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.
How does Washington § 18.185.170 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.
