Application Fee
See agencyLibrarian 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 17, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Librarian in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$94,400 median (47% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Librarian licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$94,400Hourly estimate
$45.38Difference: +$30,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLibrarian Salary Ranking
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $94,400 |
| #2 | California | $86,590 |
| #3 | Maryland | $81,690 |
| #4 | Nevada | $79,710 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $79,380 |
Nearby States Comparison
Librarian 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $77,310 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $81,050 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,690 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $66,150 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Librarian 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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Librarian license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.