Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Washington
2026 data Washington board official source

Washington Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Provides basic patient care under supervision. Requires NCLEX-PN exam.

What the Washington data shows for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

To practice as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Washington, the state licensing board requires 1,405 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-PN. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Washington's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

The initial price tag is $176, and renewal costs $131 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, licensed practical nurse (lpn)s should know: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Washington

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,405 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$176
Renewal Fee
$131
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) All Washington licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Washington licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Washington? ▼
In Washington, the license path calls for 1405 education/training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-PN, and a $176 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Washington? ▼
Certification as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Washington means clearing the state's checklist: 1405 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Washington licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to Washington from another state? ▼
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licenses generally reciprocate as follows: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Washington licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Washington require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensing process in Washington. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Washington? ▼
Licensed licensed practical nurse (lpn)s in Washington must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $131.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.