Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Practical Nurse in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,700 median (28% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $79,700, Licensed Practical Nurses in Washington earn 28% above the national median of $62,340. 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
$79,700Hourly estimate
$38.3228% above national median
Difference: +$17,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Licensed Practical Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $79,700 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | $77,940 |
| #3 | Alaska | $77,670 |
| #4 | California | $77,170 |
| #5 | Oregon | $76,570 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Practical Nurse 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $60,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse 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 exams are required for Licensed Practical Nurses in Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Practical Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Washington is $79,700. Salaries range from $62,400 (10th percentile) to $96,680 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Washington earn 28% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of $79,700.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 6,450 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurses in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Practical Nurse license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.