Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered 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 Registered 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
$112,180 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Registered 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 $112,180, Registered Nurses in Washington earn 20% above the national median of $93,600. Washington ranks #4 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
$112,180Hourly estimate
$53.9320% above national median
Difference: +$18,580
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#4 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | $136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | $123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | $112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | $110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered 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 Registered 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 Registered Nurses in Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Washington is $112,180. Salaries range from $86,490 (10th percentile) to $149,370 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Washington earn 20% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of $112,180.
How many Registered Nurses work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 64,690 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered 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 Registered 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 Registered Nurse license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.