Are you planning to pursue a nursing career and need your Nursing License in Washington? This thorough guide gives you all the essential details, requirements, timelines, and fees associated with obtaining and preserving a nursing license in the Evergreen State.
Washington Nursing Schools
- The number of nursing schools in Washington is 47.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Washington ADN programs is 87.56%.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Washington BSN programs is 87.23%.
- Find the best ranked Washington nursing schools:
Nursing Licenses in Washington at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | Yes – Partial Implementation |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | Yes |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | State Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (360) 236-4703 |
Nursing License in Washington
Steps, Timelines and Cost for Nursing License in Washington
The process to earn a nursing license in Washington involves several key steps:
| Step in Licensure Process | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Nursing Program (ADN/BSN) | 2-4 years (ADN), 4 years (BSN) | $10,000 – $60,000+ |
| Register for NCLEX Exam | Varies | $200 – $500 |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | Depends on state | $50 – $100 |
| Take NCLEX Exam | Once registered | Included in registration |
| Await NCLEX Results | Up to 6 weeks typically | N/A |
| Apply for State Licensure | After passing NCLEX | RN: $138.00, LPN $93.00 |
| Temporary License Issued | Approximately 5-12 days | No additional fee |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | 5-12 days after applying | Included in application fee |
| Renewal of License | Annually by the licensee’s birthday | RN: $138.00, LPN $93.00 |
| Continuing Education | Yearly usually | Varies |
Key Highlights for Washington Nursing Licenses
- Nursing Programs: Duration and cost for nursing programs in Washington vary, with ADN programs taking 2-4 years and BSN programs around 4 years. Costs can range from $10,000 to over $60,000.
- NCLEX Authorization: Steps for obtaining authorization to take the NCLEX include applying to the Washington Board of Nursing and registering for the exam. Costs range from $200 to $500.
- NCLEX Registration and Background Checks: Include costs for NCLEX registration and any associated fingerprinting or background check fees, typically between $50 and $100.
- NCLEX Test Results Wait Time: Nurses typically wait up to 6 weeks to receive their NCLEX test results in Washington.
- State Licensure Application: The application process for state licensure includes fees and an expected timeframe of approximately 5-12 days for processing.
- Temporary Licenses: Washington issues temporary licenses within about 5-12 days, with no additional fee, pending background check results.
- Official Nursing License: The timeframe for obtaining the official nursing license is usually 5-12 days after applying, with the fee included in the application cost.
- License Renewal: Licenses are renewed annually by the licensee’s birthday, with fees of $138.00 for RNs and $93.00 for LPNs.
Washington Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
Advanced Practice Registered Nursing in Washington encompasses several specialized roles, each with its own educational and certification requirements.
- Education Requirements: APRNs in Washington must complete a graduate-level education program in one of the recognized APRN roles: Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM).
- Certification: National certification is required in the chosen APRN role from an approved certifying body.
- State Licensure: The Washington State Board of Nursing regulates APRN practice, including licensure requirements such as application, fees, proof of education and certification, and sometimes a background check.
- Prescriptive Authority: APRNs in Washington may have prescriptive authority, subject to state regulations.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses require periodic renewal with continuing education or practice hours.
- Practice Authority: Washington APRNs have full practice authority. Additional details can be found in the Washington Nursing Practice Act.
- eNLC Participation: APRNs in Washington can practice in other eNLC states without obtaining additional licenses.
- Scope of Practice: Defined by state law, the scope includes patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Each APRN role has specific education, clinical hours, or specialized skills requirements.
- Transition to Practice: Some states require supervised practice hours for new APRNs.
- Insurance and Liability: APRNs should understand malpractice insurance requirements in Washington.
