Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 18.85.191 — License fees — Expiration — Renewal — Identification cards — Background checks., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.85.191. License fees — Expiration — Renewal — Identification cards — Background checks.
Before receiving a license, every real estate broker, managing broker, and firm must pay a license fee as prescribed by the director by rule. A license issued under the provisions of this chapter expires two years from the issuance date. Licenses issued to real estate firms that are partnerships, limited liability partnerships, limited liability companies, corporations, and other legally recognized business entities expire on the date when the registration or certificate of authority filed with the secretary of state expires. Licenses must be renewed every two years on or before the date established under this section and a biennial renewal license fee as prescribed by the director by rule must be paid. A license is considered expired when the licensee fails to meet the renewal requirements as of the date of renewal for that license.
If the director does not receive the application for a renewal license on or before the renewal date, a penalty fee as prescribed by the director by rule shall be paid. Acceptance by the director of an application for renewal after the renewal date shall not be a waiver of the delinquency.
The license of a person whose license renewal fee is not received within one year from the date of expiration is canceled. This person may obtain a new license by satisfying the procedures and requirements as prescribed by the director by rule.
The director may issue to each active licensee a license and a pocket identification card in the form and size as prescribed by rule.
The director must develop by rule a procedure and a schedule to ensure all active licensees and licensees applying for active status, renewal, or reinstatement have a fingerprint and background check done on a regular basis.
[
2008 c 23 s 19;
1997 c 322 s 10;
1991 c 225 s 2;
1989 c 161 s 2;
1987 c 332 s 5;
1979 c 25 s 2. Prior:
1977 ex.s. c 370 s 4;
1977 ex.s. c 24 s 3;
1972 ex.s. c 139 s 12;
1953 c 235 s 7;
1951 c 222 s 12. Formerly: (i) 1947 c 203 s 2, part; 1945 c 111 s 4, part; 1941 c 252 s 12, part; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 8340-35, part. (ii) 1947 c 203 s 1, part; 1945 c 111 s 3, part; 1943 c 118 s 2, part; 1941 c 252 s 11, part; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 8340-34, part; prior: 1925 ex.s. c 129 ss 10, 11. Formerly RCW
18.85.140.]
Notes
Effective date—1989 c 161 s 2: "Section 2 of this act shall take effect January 1, 1991." [
1989 c 161 s 4.]
Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 18.85.191
What does Revised Code of Washington § 18.85.191 cover?
Section 18.85.191 ("License fees — Expiration — Renewal — Identification cards — Background checks.") 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 § 18.85.191?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 18.85.191" (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 § 18.85.191 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.
