#2,195 - Inslee Signs Bill Into law to Allow Illegal Immigrants to Obtain Professional Licenses

Washington residents without permanent legal immigration status will soon be able to get professional licenses for jobs once closed to them.

Gov. Jay Inslee on Wednesday signed House Bill 1889, which allows the use of individual tax identification numbers — often used by immigrants without legal status to file taxes — instead of social security numbers on professional license applications.

Some professions, like optometry, private investigators and notaries, require applicants to be United States citizens to qualify for licensure. The bill also removes those requirements.

“This bill will open doors for careers in teaching, health care, accounting and many other professions to those who are ready to join the Washington workforce,” Inslee said at the bill signing.