(1) A person applying for a certificate to provide auto transportation company services must have the knowledge, experience, and resources to conduct the service it proposes in its application. The applicant must be fit, willing and able to comply with state law and the requirements of this chapter.

(2) The commission must determine that the public convenience and necessity, as defined in WAC 480-30-140(1), requires the proposed service when considering an application for a new certificate or extension of an existing certificate. An applicant must support its application with statements by independent members of the public who need the service or are knowledgeable about the need for service in the territory in which the applicant seeks authority, or a statement by a representative of a city, county or regional transportation planning organization who is knowledgeable about the need for service in the territory in which the applicant seeks authority.

(3) Auto transportation company certificate applications are subject to the application docket notice and objection provisions of WAC 480-30-116.

(4) The commission may set for hearing any auto transportation company certificate application.

(5) If no existing company files an objection under RCW 81.68.040, the commission may grant an original application or an extension of authority, if:

(a) The applicant demonstrates a need for service not provided by an existing auto transportation company holding a certificate by filing statements by independent members of the public who need the service or are knowledgeable about the need for service in the territory in which the applicant seeks authority, or a statement by a representative of a city, county or regional transportation planning organization who is knowledgeable about the need for service in the territory in which the applicant seeks authority;

(b) The applicant demonstrates the financial ability to provide the proposed service. "Financial ability" means that the applicant has sufficient financing or assets to begin operations and continue them for a reasonable period while developing business. This determination does not require a comprehensive analysis of cost and revenue estimates of the full scope of proposed operations and balancing start-up and long-run operating costs over an extended period; and

(c) The applicant demonstrates that it is willing and able to comply with commission laws and rules.