To practice nursing in Washington state, you need to obtain a Washington state license or a valid multistate license (MSL) from a participating NLC state. The licensing process in Washington involves different steps depending on your nursing role, such as Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or Nursing Technician (NTEC). The Department of Health (DOH) is responsible for processing applications, including conducting FBI background checks and verifying transcripts. It is important to note that the DOH does not process applications for Nursing Assistants. If required, you may need to submit a fingerprint background check and official transcripts. Military spouses or domestic partners of service members may be eligible for an expedited application process. Additionally, the NLC Multistate Licenses and renewal fees should be considered when obtaining and maintaining a Washington nursing license.
Key Takeaways:
- Getting a Washington nursing license involves different steps depending on your nursing role.
- The Department of Health (DOH) processes applications and conducts FBI background checks.
- Official transcripts and fingerprint background checks may be required.
- Military spouses or domestic partners of service members may have an expedited application process.
- Consider NLC Multistate Licenses and renewal fees when obtaining and maintaining a Washington nursing license.
Applying for a Washington Nursing License
The first step in obtaining your Washington nursing license is to go through the application process. To make the process efficient, most applicants are recommended to apply online through the Department of Health (DOH) Online Application Portal. However, there are situations where a paper application is required, such as previous deficient applications or insufficient information in the public record for identity verification. It is essential to gather all the necessary documents and have a payment method ready before applying.
Once you’ve submitted your application, the next step may involve an FBI background check. This check ensures the safety and integrity of the nursing profession in Washington. You can complete the background check using Live Scan or fingerprint cards obtained from a fingerprinting facility. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the DOH and submit all the required documents within the specified timeframe.
Official transcripts might be required, especially if you are applying for the nursing license exam or advanced practice licensure as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). The official transcripts verify your educational background and are an important part of the application process. Make sure to provide the necessary transcripts as requested by the DOH.
Here is a handy checklist to help you navigate the Washington nursing license application process:
- Gather all the necessary documents, including identification, education verification, and proof of completion of the required exams.
- Prepare a payment method for the application fees.
- Submit your application online through the DOH Online Application Portal or via paper application if required.
- Complete the fingerprint background check either through Live Scan or using fingerprint cards from a fingerprinting facility.
- Provide official transcripts if applicable to your nursing role.
| Application Checklist | Notes |
|---|---|
| Gather necessary documents | Identification, education verification, exams |
| Prepare payment method | Application fees |
| Submit application | Online or paper application |
| Complete fingerprint background check | Live Scan or fingerprint cards |
| Provide official transcripts | If applicable to your role |
By following these steps and providing all the necessary information, you’ll be one step closer to obtaining your Washington nursing license. The application process can sometimes be time-consuming, so it’s essential to stay organized and complete each step diligently. Once you have successfully completed the application process, you’ll be on your way to pursuing a rewarding nursing career in Washington.
Renewing and Maintaining a Washington Nursing License
To maintain an active Washington nursing license, registered nurses (RNs) must renew their license every year on or up to 90 days before their birthday. Online renewal becomes accessible 85 to 90 days before the expiration date. Late renewals are allowed up to one year after the expiration date, but late fees will apply.
It is important to check the license status using the DOH Provider Credential Search and ensure compatibility with the online renewal system.
Continuing education requirements have been reduced, with nurses now needing at least 8 hours of active nursing practice CE hours and 96 hours of active nursing practice hours annually. Various types of continuing education related to nursing practice are accepted, including:
- Employer/institution training
- Self-study training
- Accredited courses
Nurses are also required to complete a one-time mandatory six hours of CE in suicide assessment, treatment, and management. Additionally, nurses providing telehealth services must complete telemedicine training, which can be counted towards their CE hours.
| Requirements | CE Hours | Nursing Practice Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Active Nursing Practice | 8 hours | 96 hours |
| Suicide Assessment, Treatment, and Management | 6 hours (one-time) | N/A |
| Telemedicine Training | Counted towards CE hours | N/A |
By fulfilling these requirements, registered nurses in Washington can successfully renew and maintain their nursing license, ensuring they stay up-to-date with the latest knowledge and practices in the field.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Washington nursing license is a multi-step process that requires careful attention to detail. By following the guidelines set forth by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (WSNCQAC) and the Department of Health (DOH), nurses can navigate the application process and secure their license to practice in the Evergreen State.
Utilizing online resources, such as the DOH Online Application Portal and the DOH Provider Credential Search, can contribute to a smoother and more efficient experience. It is also crucial to stay updated on any changes in licensing requirements and to regularly check for updates from the WSNCQAC and DOH.
Remember, the path to becoming a licensed nurse in Washington involves several important steps, including completing the application process, undergoing FBI background checks, verifying official transcripts, and meeting continuing education requirements. By successfully completing these steps, nurses can unlock their career potential and embark on a fulfilling journey in the nursing profession in the Evergreen State.
FAQ
How do I apply for a Washington nursing license?
To apply for a Washington nursing license, most applicants are recommended to apply online through the Department of Health (DOH) Online Application Portal. Some situations may require a paper application. Ensure you have all necessary documents and payment method ready before applying.
What documents do I need to submit for a Washington nursing license application?
The required documents for a Washington nursing license application may include a fingerprint background check, official transcripts, and any other documents specified by the Department of Health (DOH) based on your nursing role and situation.
How long does it take to process a Washington nursing license application?
The processing time for a Washington nursing license application varies. It depends on the completeness of the application, submission of required documents, and any additional review or verification needed by the DOH. It is advisable to submit all required documents within the specified timeframe to avoid delays.
How often do I need to renew my Washington nursing license?
Registered nurses (RNs) in Washington need to renew their license every year on or up to 90 days before their birthday. Online renewal becomes accessible 85 to 90 days before the expiration date.
What are the continuing education requirements for renewing a Washington nursing license?
Registered nurses (RNs) in Washington need to complete at least 8 hours of active nursing practice CE hours and 96 hours of active nursing practice hours annually. A one-time mandatory six hours of CE in suicide assessment, treatment, and management is also required. Telehealth providers must complete telemedicine training, which can count towards their CE hours.
Can I renew my Washington nursing license if it has already expired?
Late renewals are allowed up to one year after the expiration date. However, late fees will apply. It is important to check your license status using the DOH Provider Credential Search and ensure compatibility with the online renewal system.
How can I verify the status of a Washington nursing license?
You can verify the status of a Washington nursing license by using the DOH Provider Credential Search. This online tool allows you to search for and view the current status, expiration date, and other details of a nursing license in Washington.
