Using a laser, intense pulsed light, radiofrequency or plasma device on the skin is the practice of medicine. A physician trained on the device may delegate it to a licensed professional whose scope allows it, including a master esthetician, under a written office protocol with no surgery and no eye treatment, and must be on the premises for a patient’s first treatment. Injectables are given by a physician, physician assistant or nurse under the same supervision rules. An esthetician without the master credential may not operate these devices, and the medical side of the business belongs to the licensed practitioner.
Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.
Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business
1Set up the business
2Register for tax
3Approve the space
4Get the permits for your kind of business
5Alcohol permits
6Before the first hire
Issued by Washington Medical Commission (Department of Health).
Sources and dates
WAC 246-919-605 (use of laser, light, radiofrequency and plasma devices); RCW 18.16.020 (master esthetician scope); Department of Licensing guidance on estheticians and devices. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.
Questions about opening here.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
Yes. Using a laser, intense pulsed light, radiofrequency or plasma device on the skin is the practice of medicine.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
No. In Washington it is listed for med spas.
Washington Medical Commission (Department of Health).
Step 4 of 6, get the permits for your kind of business. The steps before it: set up the business, register for tax and approve the space.
Who needs a physician delegation of laser in Washington? | DoorWorthy
