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Registrations and filings required for businesses - Horse Racing Commission

You may be required to have a license, registration, or permit from the list below based on the business activity you selected from the Business Licensing Wizard. For more information, please contact the Horse Racing Commission at 360-459-6462.

Washington Horse Racing Commission (WHRC) Association License

Purpose

To allow persons or entities to own and/or operate a horse racing facility where pari-mutuel wagering is conducted.

How to submit

Please contact the Washington Horse Racing Commission at 360-459-6462.

Complete the application. Following review of the application and background checks, you must appear at a commission meeting for approval vote.

Processing time

Approximately five months.

Fees

$50,000 - Initial application
$200 - Per live race day (first year of operation)
$500 - Per live race day (subsequent years of operation)

License renewals

License is valid for one year, but can be extended each year by applying for race dates.

Additional resources

In 2022, one racing association was granted race dates to conduct pari-mutuel racing. That association has been previously licensed. The most recent license was issued to Emerald Racing LLC in 2015.

Washington Horse Racing Commission (WHRC) Commercial License

Purpose

To allow persons and businesses in commercial operations to participate in pari-mutuel horse racing activities.

How to submit

An annual application must be completed, signed, and submitted with appropriate fees.

Forms and Reports

Processing time

Generally, applications are processed immediately. (Twelve percent in more than seven days. All others less than seven days.)

Fees

$31 to $146 - Filing of application (per year)
$10 - Fingerprint

License renewals

Yes. Valid for each calendar year.

Additional resources

The WHRC licenses all persons who participate directly in pari-mutuel horse racing (and have access to the restricted areas of the track). While the majority of licenses are issued to individuals, some of these individuals are involved in commercial activities at the track. For that reason they are considered "businesses" for the purpose of this effort. The only delay in issuing a license is when an applicant discloses a racing violation or criminal conviction, which requires they see the stewards before a license can be issued. Most licenses are issued at the time of application.