Regulatory & compliance · Intrastate household goods

District of Columbia

State license required

Regulated byDC Department of Licensing & Consumer Protection (DLCP)

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required
Yes
Yes – A Moving & Storage License is required to operate
Insurance Required
Yes
Yes – Must file proof of commercial liability insurance
Additional Requirements
Certificate of Occupancy, a contract template, storage facility list (if applicable), police history report, business and tax registration
Public Space Permits
Yes
Yes – Required from DC Department of Transportation for curbside loading zones and reserved parking
Application Fee
$104.50
Consumer Complaints
Handled through DLCP’s enforcement and consumer affairs division – Online Form

OverviewOverview & Scope

To legally provide moving or storage services in DC, businesses must secure a Moving & Storage License from DLCP. In addition, trucks must be authorized for loading and parking in the district’s public space via permits from the Department of Transportation (DDOT). Operating without proper licensing or permits may result in enforcement action.

RegistrationRegistration & Compliance Essentials

Movers must:

  1. Apply for Moving & Storage License, including:
    • Business incorporation documents
    • Proof of liability insurance
    • Certificate of Occupancy
    • Storage facility listing (if applicable)
    • Police criminal history report
    • Tax registration and contract form
  2. Pay the $104.50 application fee
  3. Obtain Public Space Permits from DDOT for:
    • Loading zone access
    • Reserved curb parking
    • Parked equipment/meter use during moves

ConsumerConsumer Protections

  • A written contract must be used for every move.
  • All moves must be properly licensed and insured.
  • Consumers can verify licensing and file complaints through DLCP.
  • Unlicensed or unpermitted operations may result in fines or legal enforcement.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

  • DLCP Moving & Storage LicenseYes
  • Certificate of Liability InsuranceYes
  • Certificate of Occupancy + Business RegistrationYes
  • Criminal History ReportYes
  • Public Space Permits (loading, parking)Required
  • Written Contract Used for Every MoveRequired
  • Complaint Process via DLCPProvided