Licensing Information

Fee Schedule | Understanding your Application | Process for Approving/Denying Applications

Apply Online

Getting started

Online Application Instructions

Online application instructions are on our website.

Once you have completed the process and submitted your application, you will receive an email with your pending credential number, or you may look on the Provider Credential Search. Refer to this credential number any time you contact the Department of Health or submit paperwork.

Apply on Paper

The following form is required to complete the application process. Please download and print the form.

How to Renew

Is your contact information current?

In order to serve you better, we must have your correct mailing address in our system. This is especially important because we mail your courtesy renewal notice and updated credential to the address on file. The U.S. Postal Service does not forward Department of Health mail. If your contact information is not current in our system, please complete and submit the contact information change formContact our staff members is you have questions.

How to renew

By mail

In person

Online

  • Online renewal is not available for this profession.

Questions?

If you have questions about the renewal process, see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements

Retired volunteer medical workers don't have to pay a renewal fee, but they must renew their license every three years on or before their birthday. The licensee must submit the renewal card and proof of current registration as a volunteer with a local organization for emergency services or management.

They must also complete the following continuing competency requirements every three years:

  • Basic first-aid course
  • Bloodborne pathogens course
  • CPR course

Fee Schedule

There is no application or renewal fee for this license.

Understanding your Application

All professions within the Department of Health (DOH) are unique. While the sections identified below can often be found on most applications, it is important to be aware of the requirements and rules of your specific credential(s).

After you submit your application, please watch for email communication from DOH. Throughout the application process promptly reply to all questions and requests. Delayed responses cause a longer wait for your credential to be issued. We highly encourage using our online application services.

Credentialing process flow chart

Contact information

Demographic Information

Demographic data is used to create an account within the DOH database, verify your identity, and collect contact information. Please carefully provide accurate and complete answers to all applicable demographic questions.

Military

It is valuable to indicate your military or spouse status on your DOH application. Appropriate documentation is necessary for all military-related applications, and it is important to be aware of the documents you need to provide to DOH. In some cases, military education, training, and experience may count towards attaining certain healthcare professional credentials. As a spouse or registered domestic partner of a service member, you may be eligible to have the processing time of your application expedited.

To find information and resources for military personnel and their spouses, visit the Military Resources website.

Personal Data Questions

All applicants must respond to the personal data questions, which focus on their ability to demonstrate the essential skills required for their profession. 

Carefully review all questions. Please note that “yes” answers require an explanation and additional documentation as outlined on your application. If applicable, please be aware of the necessary documentation and provide it to DOH as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing your application.

Other Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

DOH must verify all other credentials. List all states, including Washington State, where credentials are or were held. If you have applicable credentials to list, you may be required to provide an Out-of-State Credential Verification form. This form can be found in the paper application packet or on the Apply for License page. The form must be sent to each state listed and returned to DOH.

Please remember to provide all in-state and out-of-state credentials, including active, expired, and in-renewal. Individual states may require a fee for sending your verification to us. Please check in advance to help expedite this process.

Education

To verify your qualifications, we must review all educational preparation and post-graduate training. Applicants must request official transcripts from the school(s) attended, and the school needs to send them directly to DOH.

Exam

In some cases, passing an exam may be required to receive your credential. It is important to be aware of whether this applies to your credential. Exam scores must be sent from the exam host to the department. For more information on exams that may apply to your credential, visit your profession page. 

Supervised Experience

Supervised experience may be necessary to receive your credential or maintain it as you practice. Supervision rules and requirements vary from profession to profession. Please visit your professions page to learn more about supervision requirements for your credential.

Important Reminders

Fees

Fees must be paid when an application is submitted. You can pay online while using the online application portal, or by sending a check or money order to the appropriate P.O. Box as listed on your application.

Applications with unpaid fees cannot be processed until payment is received.

Background Check

A background check is processed for every applicant. DOH may need to obtain a fingerprint-based background check with the Washington State Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). If this is required for your application, you will be contacted by DOH and it is your responsibility to complete the required steps to submit this background check.

Process for Approving/Denying Applications

Credentialing staff review the application and supporting documents to make an initial determination on eligibility. The recommendation is based upon the requirements outlined in RCW 18.130.360 and WAC 246-12 (Part 12). Credentialing supervisors approve applications that don't have positive answers to personal data questions, have questionable verifying documents or are otherwise “red flag” applications. "Red flag" applications are forwarded to the exception application process for determination by the appropriate disciplining authority. An applicant will be formally notified of a denial and has the opportunity for a hearing.

Contact and Connect

If you have questions about the application process, contact us.

If you'd like to join our interested parties list for your profession, join GovDelivery.