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Carpenter Licensing in Washington

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for carpenter in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

Third-party exam required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Carpenter in Washington

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Stand-alone license
  • Education: Degree required
  • Examination: Third-party exam required
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Experience: No experience required
  • Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
  • Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Health

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $73,260 median (24% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #4 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Washington

With a median salary of 73,260, Carpenters in Washington earn 24% above the national median of $59,310. Washington ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Rising

QoQ Employment Change

+2.3%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,837

Median annual salary

$73,260

Hourly estimate

$35.22
24% above national median

Difference: +$13,950

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$50,560
  • P2525th percentile$60,000
  • P50Median$73,260
  • P7575th percentile$90,900
  • P9090th percentile$111,840

State vs National Median

State: $73,260
National: $59,310

Total employment: 26,340 | Annual openings: N/A

Carpenter Salary Ranking

#4 of 50 statesfor Carpenter median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Hawaii85,970
#2Illinois76,410
#3California74,820
#4Washington73,260
#5Massachusetts71,110

Nearby States Comparison

Carpenter licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Washington$73,260Degree requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Idaho$48,530Degree requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Oregon$61,170Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months

License by Endorsement

Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Washington50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Idaho54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Department of Health

101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501

Phone: 3602364700

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in Washington

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Electrician$96,530Specific course required6-24 months
Elevator Installer$133,030Degree required6-24 months
HVAC Technician$67,630No educational requirements6-24 months
Locksmith$50,520Degree required6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Carpenter in Washington?

Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.

What exams are required for Carpenters in Washington?

Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Carpenters.

What education do you need to become a Carpenter in Washington?

The board typically expects Degree required for Carpenter licensure in Washington.

What is the typical Carpenter salary in Washington?

The median annual salary for Carpenters in Washington is 73,260. Salaries range from $50,560 (10th percentile) to $111,840 (90th percentile).

How does the Carpenter salary in Washington compare to the national average?

Carpenters in Washington earn 24% above the national median of $59,310, with a state median of 73,260.

How many Carpenters work in Washington?

Washington employs approximately 26,340 Carpenters according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Carpenter license to Washington from another state?

Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Who is the licensing agency for Carpenters in Washington?

The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.