Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | District of Columbia |
| Regulatory Authority | DC Department of Licensing & Consumer Protection (DLCP) |
| License Required? | Yes – A Moving & Storage License is required to operate |
| Insurance Required? | 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 – 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 |
Overview & 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.
Registration & Compliance Essentials
Movers must:
- 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
- Pay the $104.50 application fee
- Obtain Public Space Permits from DDOT for:
- Loading zone access
- Reserved curb parking
- Parked equipment/meter use during moves
Consumer 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.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required |
|---|---|
| DLCP Moving & Storage License | Yes |
| Certificate of Liability Insurance | Yes |
| Certificate of Occupancy + Business Registration | Yes |
| Criminal History Report | Yes |
| Public Space Permits (loading, parking) | Required |
| Written Contract Used for Every Move | Required |
| Complaint Process via DLCP | Provided |
Disclaimer:
This page provides a general overview of licensing and compliance for household goods movers operating in the District of Columbia. Requirements may change—please verify current licensing, insurance, and public space permit obligations with DLCP and DDOT before proceeding.
Last updated: August 8, 2025