Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Nurse Midwife Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nurse midwife in Washington, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nurse Midwife in Washington
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$145,000 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Nurse Midwife licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Health.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of 145,000, Nurse Midwifes in Washington earn 13% above the national median of 128790. Washington ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$145,000Hourly estimate
$69.7113% above national median
Difference: +$16,210
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNurse Midwife Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Nurse Midwife median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 196,700 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 155,710 |
| #3 | Washington | 145,000 |
| #4 | Vermont | 140,240 |
| #5 | Virginia | 139,770 |
Nearby States Comparison
Nurse Midwife 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $93,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $68,650 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $57,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nurse Midwife 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 Nurse Midwifes in Washington?
Washington lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Nurse Midwifes.
What education do you need to become a Nurse Midwife in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nurse Midwife licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Nurse Midwife salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Nurse Midwifes in Washington is 145,000. Salaries range from 105990 (10th percentile) to 205640 (90th percentile).
How does the Nurse Midwife salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Nurse Midwifes in Washington earn 13% above the national median of 128790, with a state median of 145,000.
How many Nurse Midwifes work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 150 Nurse Midwifes according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nurse Midwife license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Nurse Midwifes in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.