Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 43.01.020 — Oath of office., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 43.01.020. Oath of office.
The governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, treasurer, auditor, attorney general, superintendent of public instruction, commissioner of public lands, and insurance commissioner, shall, before entering upon the duties of their respective offices, take and subscribe an oath or affirmation in substance as follows: I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution and laws of the state of Washington, and that I will faithfully discharge the duties of the office of (name of office) to the best of my ability.
The oath or affirmation shall be administered by one of the justices of the supreme court at the capitol. A certificate shall be affixed thereto by the person administering the oath, and the oath or affirmation so certified shall be filed in the office of the secretary of state before the officer shall be qualified to discharge any official duties: PROVIDED, That the oath of the secretary of state shall be filed in the office of the state auditor.
Notes
Attorney general, oath of office: RCW
43.10.010.
Commissioner of public lands, oaths of employees: RCW
43.12.021.
Court commissioners, oath of office: RCW
2.24.020.
Engineers and land surveyors' board of registration, oath required: RCW
18.43.030.
Horse racing commission, oath of office: RCW
67.16.012.
Judges of superior court, oath of office: State Constitution Art. 4 s 28; RCW
2.08.080,
2.08.180.
Judges of supreme court, oath of office: State Constitution Art. 4 s 28; RCW
2.04.080.
Liquor and cannabis board, oath of office: RCW
66.08.014.
Oaths, mode of administering: State Constitution Art. 1 s 6.
State administrative officers, oath required: RCW
43.17.030.
State auditor, oath of office: RCW
43.09.010.
State treasurer, oath of office: RCW
43.08.020.
University of Washington, board of regents, oath required: RCW
28B.10.520.
Utilities and transportation commission: RCW
80.01.020.
Washington State University, board of regents: RCW
28B.10.520.
Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 43.01.020
What does Revised Code of Washington § 43.01.020 cover?
Section 43.01.020 ("Oath of office.") 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 § 43.01.020?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 43.01.020" (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 § 43.01.020 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.
