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Washington

WA

Telecom Compliance Reference — Updated January 2023

Mini-TCPA State — High Risk

Calling Hours

8:00 AM9:00 PM

Min Penalty

$1,000

Registration

Required

Washington Prerecorded Messages Compliance

Robocall and prerecorded message compliance rules in Washington

Mini-TCPA State — RCW 80.36 (Automatic Dialing & Announcing Devices); RCW 19.190 (CEMA)

Washington has enacted a state-level TCPA that goes beyond federal requirements. Federal compliance alone is not enough for Prerecorded Messages operations here.

Consent Requirements

Consent LevelPrior Express
Checkbox ConsentNot sufficient
StatuteRCW 80.36.400

Prerecorded calls are the original target of Washington ADAD law. Prior consent required. Must disconnect within 10 seconds of hang-up. Emergency and government calls exempt. EBR provides limited exemption for existing customers. Checkbox consent buried in terms is not sufficient for prerecorded — clear and conspicuous opt-in required.

Calling Rules

Calling Hours8:00 AM9:00 PM
RegistrationRequired
Penalty / Violation$1,000
Willful Violation$2,000
Private Right of ActionYES

Prerecorded Messages Compliance Checklist

01Prior express written consent required for most prerecorded calls
02Disclose name and phone number of calling company at start
03Provide automated opt-out mechanism during call
04Do not abandon calls — hang-up rate limits apply
05Cannot use prerecorded messages on cell phones without consent
06Apply same calling-hours restrictions as live calls
07Scrub DNC lists before every campaign
08Register as telemarketer if state requires
09Do not transmit inaccurate caller ID
10Document consent for every number you call
This checklist covers common requirements. State-specific rules may vary. Confirm with legal counsel for high-volume campaigns.

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This is a compliance reference tool, not legal advice. Data compiled from public statutes, LegiScan, CourtListener, state AG offices, and AI-assisted analysis. Verify all information with qualified counsel before relying on it. Full terms & data sources →