NP Advanced Practice

Washington Nurse Practitioner License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Washington

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$130

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in Washington is administered by the Washington Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Washington.

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Full Practice Authority

Full practice authority without physician oversight

Prescriptive Authority: Full Practice Authority state

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Nurse Practitioner program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

ANCC or AANPCB

Required

Yes

American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board

3 Background Check

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and state background check required

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$130
Total	$130

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$130

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 15 hours required

Prerequisites

To become a Nurse Practitioner in Washington, you must first hold an active RN license. Washington is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Washington RN Requirements

Washington NP License FAQs

How much does an NP license cost in Washington?

Expect about $130 in total initial NP license costs in Washington, including a $130 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Washington Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission.

How many CE hours do NPs need to renew in Washington?

Washington NPs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $130.

How long does it take to get an NP license in Washington?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues NP licenses in Washington?

The Washington Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission handles NP license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 360-236-4703.