RN Warehouse

Washington nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

Washington is a compact state (since January 2024). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in Washington in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in Washington, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery year
RN CE hours per cycle8
RN endorsement fee$138
Renewal cycle
Every year
When it expires
Licensee's birthday each year
Renewal fee
$138
Continuing education
8 contact hours per renewal cycle
Required CE topics
  • Health equity (2 hrs; first due by 2026 renewal, then ongoing)
  • Suicide assessment, treatment and management (6 hrs, one time, from WADOH model list)
Endorsement fee
$138
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Available. Temporary practice permit while fingerprint background check is pending; 60 days (180 for military spouses), may be renewed 30 days
How to apply
Verify original licensure by exam in another U.S. jurisdiction and education; start fingerprint-based national background check within 30 days of applying.

Moving or traveling

Moving to Washington from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

Washington State Board of Nursing (WABON)

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Endorsement · CE rules
This page summarizes Washington's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@lawfrogrnesq.com.

Sources