Nurse License Requirements in Washington
License RequiredLast verified March 24, 2026
Agency And Exam
Issuing agency: Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission
Official licensing agency website
Exam provider: Pearson VUE
Reciprocity And License Levels
License levels
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)Registered Nurse (RN)
Reciprocity states
None listed
Notes
Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission, under the Washington Department of Health, licenses LPNs and RNs. NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN required. Washington is NOT a Nurse Licensure Compact member state; a Washington-specific license is required. Biennial renewal with continuing education.