Apply for a License
- Apply online
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Getting started
Online Application Instructions
Online application instructions are on our website.
Once you have completed the process, you will find your pending credential number on Provider Credential Search. Refer to this credential number any time you contact the Department of Health or submit paperwork.
- Apply on paper
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The following forms are required for completing the application process. Please download and print.
Fee Schedule
- See fee information below
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Non-Refundable Fee Type Fee Amount Initial application fee $205 License renewal fee $230 Late renewal penalty $116 Expired license reactivation $90 Duplicate license $15 Certification to other state / institutions $15 WAC 246-12-340 - Refund of fees
Fees submitted with applications for initial credentialing, examinations, renewal, and other fees associated with the licensing and regulation of the profession are nonrefundable.
WAC 246-12-350 - Making payments.
- Make checks or money orders payable to the Department of Health.
- Practitioners should include their credential number on the check, draft or money order.
- Applicants should include profession for which they are applying on the check, draft or money order.
- Send check, draft or money order to:
Department of Health
P.O. Box 1099
Olympia, WA 98507-1099
Certification Requirements
- See certification requirements below
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State license verification
Applicants must list all states where they do or did hold credentials. This list must also include when the applicant has applied for a credential, even if a credential was not granted. The jurisdiction where the applicant is or was credentialed must complete and submit the verification form (PDF). The jurisdiction must send the completed form directly to the department.
Personal data questions
Each applicant must answer the personal data questions. If there is a positive answer to the professional liability claims history question, the applicant must send an explanation of the nature of the case, data and summary of care given, copies of the original complaint, and the settlement or final disposition. If the case is pending, applicant must indicate status.
Process for approving/denying applications
We finish final review for approval after a credentialing specialist verifies that the application is fully complete, and complies with requirements in chapter 18.230 RCW and chapter 246-927 WAC. We complete background checks and make sure applicants have submitted required fees. Credentialing supervisors and lead workers have the authority to approve routine applications. The disciplining authority may conduct further review if the credentialing supervisor can't verify the applicant meets all requirements. We'll formally notify applicants of a denial. Those applicants may request a hearing to appeal the decision.
Renewal requirements
Recreational therapists must renew their credential every year on or before their birthday.