RN NLC Compact State

Washington RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Washington

Processing Time
2-3 weeks
Total Initial Cost
$388
Renewal Period
1 years
CE Hours Required
None required

1 Education Requirements

Program Requirements

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Additional Requirements

  • Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
  • Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
  • Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

2 NCLEX-RN Examination

Exam Name

NCLEX-RN

Administered By

Pearson VUE

Exam Fee

$200

Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.

Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.

3 Background Check

FBI background check via Washington State Patrol
FBI background check required
Instructions emailed after application submitted
Via Washington State Patrol

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee $138
Examination Fee $200
Fingerprinting $50
Total $388

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 1 years) $93

Career Advancement

Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

State Board of Nursing

Official Name
Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission
Phone
(360) 236-4703

Verify a License

Look up any Washington nursing license status online.

Verify License

Stay Updated

Get Washington RN licensing updates, renewal reminders, and career tips delivered to your inbox.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

NLC Compact Member

Washington is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. With a multistate license, you can practice in multiple states.

Learn about NLC benefits →

Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team

Based on 6 official sources Last verified: January 2025