Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Public Safety
Corrections Officer Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for corrections officer in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Corrections Officer in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
Education history to include a minimum of a master's degree from a recognized institution of higher learning.
- 3
Applicant must provide an official transcript with degree and date posted, received directly from applicant's program.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,400 median (32% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Corrections Officer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education history to include a minimum of a master's degree from a recognized institution of higher learning.).
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (Applicant must provide an official transcript with degree and date posted, received directly from applicant's program.).
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $76,400, Corrections Officers in Washington earn 32% above the national median of $57,970. Washington ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$76,400Hourly estimate
$36.7332% above national median
Difference: +$18,430
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCorrections Officer Salary Ranking
#7 of 50 statesfor Corrections Officer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $95,840 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $90,150 |
| #3 | Oregon | $83,120 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $78,830 |
| #5 | Illinois | $78,750 |
Nearby States Comparison
Corrections Officer licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Idaho | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firefighter | $93,490 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $102,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $48,010 | Specific course required | 21 years |
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Corrections Officer in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Corrections Officer salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Corrections Officers in Washington is $76,400. Salaries range from $62,930 (10th percentile) to $94,380 (90th percentile).
How does the Corrections Officer salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Corrections Officers in Washington earn 32% above the national median of $57,970, with a state median of $76,400.
How many Corrections Officers work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 6,470 Corrections Officers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Corrections Officer license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Corrections Officers in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Corrections Officer license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.