What could keep me from receiving approval for a WA broker license?

Assuming you meet all other requirements for a real estate broker license, you could still be denied a license due to a criminal history.

The Washington State Department of Licensing uses two methods to dig deeper into backgrounds of applicants to assess their character and learn about any criminal activity.

  • Criminal background. Every applicant is required to answer five criminal history and character assessment questions, as well as a sixth question confirming fingerprinting. In addition to criminal background, applicants are asked to disclose any actions or penalties involving other professional licenses or permits that they hold. Any pending charges must also be disclosed.
  • Fingerprinting. Since some applicants won’t want to disclose their criminal record, the state requires fingerprints for all applicants. The fingerprints are shared with the Washington State Patrol for a state background check. In addition, they are sent to the FBI for a national background check.

While it may seem embarrassing to disclose everything about your past if you have a criminal record, the state recommends you do so. Since you must also submit fingerprints for a background check, this information will almost certainly be uncovered anyway. It will be a better reflection on your character if you have disclosed it and provided explanations of the circumstances.