Apply for a Certification

To expedite your application process, we strongly encourage all applicants to complete an online application.
Apply online

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

Please note: To expedite your application process, we strongly encourage all applicants to complete an online application.

All new applicants should complete the applicable documents below. Please download and print forms.

You may need to submit additional forms along with your application:

If you have limited English proficiency, and previously submitted an application without requesting a provisional certification, please complete the following:

If you hold a home care aide credential that has been expired under five years, please complete the following:

Renewal requirements

Home care aides must renew their license every year. Credentials expire on the credential holder's birthday and may be renewed within 90 days of the expiration date. To renew your certification, see our License Renewals webpage.

Beginning September 1, 2023, through July 1, 2025, if your credential has been expired for more than six months but less than two years, your credential will be automatically renewed with no fee, forms to complete, or continuing education requirements.

Fee Schedule

See fee information below

WAC 246-980-990 – Fees

Home care aide certification

  • Application fee - $100
  • Certification renewal fee - $100
  • Late renewal penalty - $50
  • Expired certification reactivation - $30
  • Duplicate certification - $15
  • Verification of certification - $25

Fees submitted with applications for initial credentialing, examinations, renewal, and other fees associated with the licensing and regulation of the profession, are non-refundable, per WAC 246-12-340.

Process for Approving/Denying Applications

We complete a final review for approval once a credentialing specialist verifies that the application is complete and complies with requirements in chapter 18.88b RCW and chapter 246-980 WAC. We complete background checks and make sure applicants have submitted the required fees. Credentialing supervisors and leads have the authority to approve routine applications. If the credentialing supervisor cannot verify that the applicant meets all requirements, the disciplining authority may conduct a further review. Applicants will be formally notified if their application is denied and may request a hearing to appeal the decision. 

Additional Licensing Information