Renewal information | Frequently asked questions
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, and submitted your application, you will receive an email with your pending credential number, or you may look on Provider Credential Search. Refer to this credential number any time you contact 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 forms.
Fee Schedule
- See fee information below
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Genetic counselor license
Non-Refundable Fee Type Fee Amount License application $50 Renewal $50 Late renewal penalty $50 Expired license reactivation $100 Duplicate license $10 Verification of licensure $25 Genetic counselor provisional license
Non-Refundable Fee Type Fee Amount License application $30 Renewal $30 Late renewal penalty $30 Duplicate license $10 Verification of provisional license $25 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 non-refundable.
Licensing Requirements
- See licensing requirements below
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State license verification
Applicants must list all states where they do or did hold credentials, including where the applicant applied but didn't receive a credential. The jurisdiction where the applicant is or was credentialed must complete and submit a verification form. The jurisdiction must send the completed form directly to the department.
Personal data questions
Each applicant must answer all personal data questions. If there is a positive answer to any of the questions, the applicant must send an explanation and official documentation (if applicable). With regard 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 a case is pending, applicant must indicate status.
Additional information/documents required
- Applicants must successfully pass an examination given by either the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) or the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG).
- Applicants who have met the requirements for licensure except for passing the examination may apply for a provisional license to engage in supervised practice as a genetic counselor.
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 18.290 RCW and chapter 246-825 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
Genetic counselors must renew their license every year. Credentials expire on the credential holder's birthday and may be renewed within the 90 days before the expiration date.
Continuing education requirements
Genetic counselors are required to complete 75 hours of continuing education, or 7.5 continuing education units (CEUs), every three years, due at the time of license renewal.
Collaborative agreements
To order laboratory tests or recommend other evaluations regarding hereditary or carrier conditions, a genetic counselor must have a collaborative agreement with a physician (medical doctor or doctor of osteopathic medicine). Such agreements must be signed by both practitioners and be re-evaluated every two years.