Trade Licensing

The City of Seattle Trade Licensing office is now offering exams using the Quiz Maker program.  See below for more information. 

We conduct trade licensing exams and issue licenses for tradespeople in Seattle who:

• Operate boilers
• Conduct gas piping installations
• Operate and install refrigeration or air conditioning equipment

New Trade License Exam Process

SDCI’s Trade Licensing Program is transitioning to a new testing process that will provide trade license exams online through our website using the Quiz Maker program. We will send the exam details to the applicants via email. 

What you need to know:

• The application process remains the same.
• The process for paying license fees online remains the same.
• You will not need video conferencing capabilities.
• The duration of the test has changed to 60 minutes total, except for the gas piping test which is 120 minutes.
• We will send you a test link that is valid for two business days.
• If the test link expires or if you accidentally close the exam, please contact us at sci_tradelicense@seattle.gov or by phone at (206) 684-5174.
• There are 50 questions in the exam and 20 questions for Turbine for steam Engineers.
• The Quiz Maker program automatically grades and scores the exams.
• The test results will be uploaded to the Seattle Services Portal within 7 business days after you complete the exam.
• For Boiler and Refrigeration licenses, diagrams are included on the appropriate tests.

Trade License Exam Tutorial

How to Apply For a License

Please read through all the steps before proceeding. We no longer accept paper applications or credentials.

1. Apply for a trade license through the Seattle Service Portal. You will need to create an account if you don't have one already.
2. Once you have created your account, go to the License - Trade & Equipment tab.
3. Complete each step of the application and upload any school certificates, school transcripts, and/or affidavit for your work experience. (Not applicable for boiler fireman grade V, refrigeration contractors, and refrigeration operator only licenses)
4. We will review your application after you submit it. If we approve it, we will email you to schedule your test.
5. If there is something wrong with your application, we will reach out and let you know what you need to do so we can approve your application.

Affidavit for steam engine boiler operator license, gas pipping mechanic license, and journey refrigeration mechanic license.