Washington Nurse Licensing Guide

Permanent License:

Approximately 5-12 days from the receipt of all required materials.

Temporary License:

‍Approximately 5-12 days from the receipt of all required materials.

Permanent License

1. Apply online and pay the application fee. The process is the same for RNs and LPNs.
2. You can view an application checklist in Washington's online application instructions (PDF).
3. You will need a SSN to apply for a WA license.
4. Make sure you meet all requirements. You need to have an active RN license in another state or complete an approved refresher course.
5. Complete the verification of your initial license in the United States via Nursys. If the state that you are licensed in does not use Nursys, they will have to send verification of your license to the Washington BON.
6. You are required to have a background check and fingerprints done for licensure in Washington. Once we receive your application, we will send you an email with the fingerprint and background check instructions.

• You must either complete this process through a Live Scan facility or obtain the fingerprint cards from the place where you get the fingerprinting done.

7. Any “yes” responses to personal data questions must have supporting documents, such as court documents and written statements.
8. If you were educated outside the US, click through to Washington's internationally educated applicants page for more information.

Temporary License

1. A temporary permit may be issued pending the results of your background check if all other requirements are met.
2. If you answered “yes” to any personal data questions, you will not be able to receive a temporary permit.

Endorsement Application: RN:$138.00, LPN $93.00

Temporary Permit: No additional fee

• Washington completed NLC implementation on January 31, 2024. Eligible Washington residents can apply for a multistate license; see the Washington State Board of Nursing announcement.
• For a closer look at application processing times, click through to the WA licensing timeline graphic.
• You will be sent a one-time paper license in the mail 7 to 10 days after the approval and activation of your license.
• Make sure you have all your documents and payment method ready, and your application is complete to avoid delays.
• For licensure applications, You have 14 days after you submit your application to upload your documents online. After 14 days, you won’t be able to access your application through Secure Access Washington (SAW).
• If you have documents to submit after 14 days, email them to nurselicensing@doh.wa.gov
• Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome work best. Online services are configured with PCs and PC-based laptops. Mobile device and tablet users may experience technical difficulties attempting to apply online.

• Renewal cadence: Annually by the licensee's birthday, the same for RNs and LPNs.
• Renewal fee: RN: $138.00, LPN $93.00. A $50.00 late fee is charged for late renewals. Late renewals are available up to one year from the expiration date of your license. After one year, your license cannot be renewed, and you will have to apply for reinstatement.
• Required contact hours: 8 continuing education hours per yearly renewal period, plus 96 practice hours. Contact and practice hour requirements are the same for RNs and LPNs.
• Online renewal is accessible approximately 90 days prior to your expiration date.
• Renewal can be completed online through the SecureAccess Washington portal.