Washington Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025
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Washington Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Washington requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Washington as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Washington Real estate broker license required. Washington business brokers operate under the Real Estate Managing Broker License, regulated by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 90 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Washington state exam (separate for Managing Broker)
Application fee: $223
License fee: $146
Exam note: Washington uses 'Broker' and 'Managing Broker' tiers — business brokers need Managing Broker
Continuing Education 30 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Washington broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Washington Washington State (Seattle) is a major tech M&A market, home to Amazon, Microsoft, and hundreds of fast-growth companies. Business brokerage uses the DOL Managing Broker license. Washington State's Department of Financial Institutions oversees securities. Mid-market and tech M&A advisors in Seattle commonly hold FINRA Series 79 and affiliate with registered broker-dealers. The Seattle M&A market is increasingly sophisticated.
Industry Certifications (Optional but Career-Critical)
CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) — International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
M&AMI (M&A Master Intermediary) — IBBA, for deals $5M+
CMAP (Certified M&A Professional) — AM&AA
Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) — FINRA, for larger M&A advisory
Series 82 (Private Securities Offerings Representative) — FINRA
How to Get Started as a Business Broker in Washington 1. Complete 90 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Washington state exam (separate for Managing Broker) 3. Obtain your Washington salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 90 hrs additional Managing Broker coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility