Application Fee
See agencyVerified 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 agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nurse Midwife in Washington
Estimated timeline: 1 monthCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must have graduated from an approved midwifery program, must have successfully passed both the national an state Midwifery Licensure examinations, have two letters of recommendation, must provide a work history from receipt of midwifery degree, have 7 hours of HIV/AIDS training, provided information about physical and mental health status, verifying lack of impairment due to chemical dependency/substance abuse, any history of loss of licensure or certification, loss or limitations of privileges, disciplinary actions as well as professional liability claims history.
Exam and processing details
- national an state Midwifery Licensure examinations, have two letters of recommendation, must provide a work history from receipt of midwifery degree, have 7 hours of HIV/AIDS training, provided information about physical and mental health status, verifying lack of impairment due to chemical dependency/substance abuse, any history of loss of licensure or certification, loss or limitations of privileges, disciplinary actions as well as professional liability claims history
Continuing education and program notes
- certification, loss or limitations of privileges, disciplinary actions as well as professional liability claims history
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- 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 (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Nurse Midwife licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required national an state Midwifery Licensure examinations, have two letters of recommendation, must provide a work history from receipt of midwifery degree, have 7 hours of HIV/AIDS tr....
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $145,000, Nurse Midwifes in Washington earn 13% above the national median of $128,790. Washington ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1 month.
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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nurse Midwife in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1 month, 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 $105,990 (10th percentile) to $205,640 (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 $128,790, 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. Verify directly with the agency.
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/.
How often do you renew a Nurse Midwife license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.