Under a "Rule Making Order" dated July 2, 2008, non-residents are no longer required to pass an examination to obtain a surplus lines license from the state of Washington. The new rule becomes effective on Aug. 2, 2008. Washington was one of the last states to continue to require an exam for non-resident surplus lines broker licensing.
According to the order the change was necessary to align the states requirements for holding a surplus lines brokers license with national standards.