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Librarian Licensing in Washington

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

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Librarian in Washington

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Stand-alone license
  • Education: Specific course required
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Health

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $94,400 median (47% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #1 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 94,400, Librarians in Washington earn 47% above the national median of $64,320. Washington ranks #1 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

$94,400

Hourly estimate

$45.38
47% above national median

Difference: +$30,080

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$60,150
  • P2525th percentile$70,240
  • P50Median$94,400
  • P7575th percentile$108,380
  • P9090th percentile$124,490

State vs National Median

State: $94,400
National: $64,320

Total employment: 2,830 | Annual openings: N/A

Librarian Salary Ranking

#1 of 50 statesfor Librarian median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Washington94,400
#2California86,590
#3Maryland81,690
#4Nevada79,710
#5New Jersey79,380

Nearby States Comparison

Librarian licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Washington$94,400Specific course requiredState-approved exam6-24 months
Idaho$46,570Degree requiredState-approved exam6-24 months
Oregon$75,360Varies 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
Washington72MediumBackground check or criminal history review is indicated.
Idaho64MediumDocumented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • 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
K-12 Teacher$99,110Specific course required6-24 months
School Counselor$83,930Degree required6-24 months
Architect$97,800Degree required6-24 months
Audiologist$105,120Degree required6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Librarian 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 education do you need to become a Librarian in Washington?

The board typically expects Specific course required for Librarian licensure in Washington.

What is the typical Librarian salary in Washington?

The median annual salary for Librarians in Washington is 94,400. Salaries range from $60,150 (10th percentile) to $124,490 (90th percentile).

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

Librarians in Washington earn 47% above the national median of $64,320, with a state median of 94,400.

How many Librarians work in Washington?

Washington employs approximately 2,830 Librarians according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Librarian 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 Librarians in Washington?

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