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King County Washington home

For-Hire Transportation

Information about taxi and transportation network company (TNC) licenses, permits, and other resources

All for-hire drivers, vehicles, and the companies they drive for must be approved by King County. They must also follow King County for-hire transportation rules and regulations.

Limousines, town cars, executive vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars are not regulated by King County. Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing to learn more about these services.

Updated training and exam required for taxi and for-hire vehicle drivers
The regional for-hire driver training and exam were updated in December 2025. The training and exam are required for all new regional for-hire driver's license applicants and all renewing applicants upon their first renewal on or after February 26, 2026. There is no fee to complete the training and exam.

For Riders

For Drivers

For Companies

Types of for-hire transportation

Taxicabs

Graphic explanation of taxicab markings

Taxicabs display exterior graphics, including the dispatch agency name and medallion number, and may have a top light. Taxicabs can be hailed from the street or an app or dispatched from a phone call. Fares can be calculated based on time and distance using a taximeter or may be a flat-rate - the fare type must be confirmed prior to starting the trip and must be displayed on the screen during the trip. See a list of currently licensed providers.

Transportation Network Companies (TNCs)

Graphic illustrating TNC vehicle type

Transportation Network Companies or TNCs are app-based ride services with fares set by the TNC. They connect riders with drivers and accept only electronic payment through a smartphone app. See a list of currently licensed providers.

Visiting our office? Join the line with QLess

The King County Customer Service Center at King Street Center uses a virtual queue called QLess. You can join the line using the QLess sign-in stations in the lobby, or join before you arrive to save time. Here's how:

  1. Join the line with this link or by texting the phrase Join the CSC Line to 206-539-0413.
  2. Wait where you want and we'll send you texts about your place in line.

Join the Line with QLess

Request in-person ADA accommodation