RN or LPN Endorsement Application

RN or LPN Endorsement (already licensed in another state)

Single-state vs Multistate License

Starting Jan 31, 2024, you have the option to apply for a Washington single-state license or a multistate license. (MSL).

• If you are issued a single-state license, you can apply to upgrade to an MSL later.

Washington single-state license

• Allows practice in Washington State only.

Washington multistate license (MSL)

• Allows practice in Washington state and 40 other participating compact states.
• Must meet all Uniform Multistate License Requirements.

Comparison chart

Initial License by Endorsement Requirements:

• Application and fee
• Graduate of a BON approved nursing education program
• Verification of an active license in another US state and passing NCLEX results
• FBI fingerprint background check (if out of state address)
  

Initial License by Endorsement Requirements:

• Application and fee
• Graduate of a BON approved nursing education
• Verification of an active license in another US state and passing NCLEX results
• FBI fingerprint background check
• Valid US Social Security Number
• WA State must be primary state of residence (PSOR)
• Must not be a participant in an alternative to discipline program or have ever been convicted of a felony.
• Must meet all Uniform Multistate License Requirements.

• Download comparison chart (PDF)

Apply for Washington state license via Endorsement

Educated outside the USA

If you got your initial nursing education outside of the United States, go to the Educated outside the United States page first.

Steps to apply

1. Make sure you meet all requirements
   1. Have an active RN or LPN license in another state
   2. Or complete an approved refresher course
   • Any “yes” responses to personal data questions must have supporting documents, such as court documents and written statements.

   We will email you if we need anything or have issues with your application.

   Submitting forms and documents

   • You have 14 days after you submit your application to upload your documents online.
   • After 14 days you won’t be able to access your application though SAW.
   • If you have more documents to submit after 14 days, please email them to WABONlicensing@doh.wa.gov

   Requirements

   To apply by endorsement you need to:

   • Have an active RN or LPN license in another state
   • Verify your initial license in the United States
   • Verify active practice employment hours (this applies to non-traditional nursing education programs only)

   Active License in another State

   You need to have an active license in order to apply by endorsement.

   If you don't have an active license in another state, you must complete a board approved refresher program. Please indicate on the application if you are enrolled in a refresher program.

   Verification of another US State License

   Verify initial license in the United States

   To apply by endorsement we need to verify your initial license in the United States (the state you took your exam and got your first license).

   Nursys Verification

   You can use Nursys to request verification of nursing license from your original state of licensure except from the following states: Pennsylvania, and California (Note: California verifies licensure for RNs but not LPNs)

   1. Go toNursys.com
   2. Look for the Nurse License Verification for Endorsement section and click Request Verification
   3. Read the terms and conditions and click Agree
   4. Search for your name or license number
   5. Request to have your verification sent to Washingtonstate
   6. Pay the online verification fee

   Nursys will email you a receipt confirmation. Please confirm your verification was sent to Washington state.

   Request verification from Pennsylvania or California (LPNs)

   Pennsylvania and California (LPNs) do not use Nursys.

   If you obtained your initial license from one of these states, you must work directly with their board to request verification.

   • If they require you to submit a form to their office, please use the Non-Nursys verification form (PDF).

   Verify active practice employment hours

   If you have completed a non-traditional nursing education program, you must submit work verification of at least 1,000 hours of active nursing practice in another state.

   The work verification must come directly from your current or previous employer on company letterhead and include:

   • dates employed
   • verification of hours
   • verification that you practiced in the profession in which you are applying

   Other Forms

   These forms may or may not apply to your situation. We will contact you if we need any of these forms.

   • Education Verification form (PDF)
   • Fingerprint-based Federal Background Check (PDF)
   • No Social Security Number Document (PDF)

   Other Information

   • Nurse license fees
   • Nurse license process
   • Application processing times

   Questions?

   We're available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.