Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Nursing Home Administrator Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nursing home administrator 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 Nursing Home Administrator in Washington
Estimated timeline: 3 monthsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must have a BA from a recognized institution, must provide professional experience in the health care and management field, provide proposed administrator-in-training program, including proposed rotation hours through nursing home departments and a written proposal for a problem solving project.
- 6
This program must be at least 1,500 hours.
- 7
Individual must pass NAB examination.
- 8
Individual must file application and pay required fee.
- 9
Individual must renew license every year.
Exam and processing details
- pass NAB examination
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$143,300 median (21% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Nursing Home Administrator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required pass NAB examination.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individual must file application and pay required fee.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $143,300, Nursing Home Administrators in Washington earn 21% above the national median of $117,960. Washington ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 3 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$143,300Hourly estimate
$68.8921% above national median
Difference: +$25,340
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNursing Home Administrator Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Nursing Home Administrator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | $149,820 |
| #2 | Washington | $143,300 |
| #3 | Hawaii | $140,750 |
| #4 | California | $136,500 |
| #5 | Georgia | $136,030 |
Nearby States Comparison
Nursing Home Administrator 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 | 50 | 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: Continuing education required 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 Nursing Home Administrator in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 3 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Nursing Home Administrators in Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Nursing Home Administrators.
What education do you need to become a Nursing Home Administrator in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nursing Home Administrator licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Nursing Home Administrator salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Nursing Home Administrators in Washington is $143,300.
How does the Nursing Home Administrator salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Nursing Home Administrators in Washington earn 21% above the national median of $117,960, with a state median of $143,300.
How many Nursing Home Administrators work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 7,740 Nursing Home Administrators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nursing Home Administrator license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Nursing Home Administrators in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Nursing Home Administrator license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.