How to Become an RN in Washington – A Simple Guide

Looking to get a career as a registered nurse (RN)  in Washington?

That’s great! 

For starters, a career as an RN isn’t for everyone. It takes a lot of time and effort. 

But if you are serious about pursuing a career, having an RN license can open many opportunities for you! And the job is very rewarding as you get to help others out! 

But now, the question is… How do you become an RN?

It can get pretty confusing since there are many things to consider and many processes to undergo. 

But we’re here to simplify things for you by giving you our 5-step guide on how to become an RN in Washington.

We’ll also answer some FAQs about job opportunities, salaries, renewing your license, and more. 

But at this point, it would be good to remember that there are other types of nurses. You can look over this article to see if a registered nurse is the type of nursing job you're looking for.

Now, if you’re all set, let’s discuss five easy steps to becoming an RN in Washington!

Let’s get into it!

How to Become a Registered Nurse in Washington: A Simple 5-Step Guide

You can become a registered nurse in Washington in five simple steps!

1. Plan your career.
2. Look for the best nursing education program for you.
3. Take the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).
4. Obtain your license.
5. Get a nursing job.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these steps! 

Step #1 – Plan Your Career

To get you started, you need to plan your career path as an RN.

Do you see yourself working in hospitals, doctor’s offices, or nursing care facilities for the elderly?

Or perhaps you would want to teach in a nursing school after graduating?

Do you want to become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the future?

This step is where you lay the groundwork for your future plans.

Your plans can still change over time. Don’t worry about sticking to one path, but having a direction can save you a lot of twists and turns. 

You’ll see why this is important even in step #2. 

Step #2 – Look for the Best Nursing Education Program for You

To develop the proper knowledge and skills to become an RN, you will need to enroll in a nursing education program.

A nursing diploma is necessary if you want to be able to pursue a career as a nurse.

But to get an RN degree, you can choose between two options.

ADN vs BSN

What are the different degrees in nursing, such as ADN and BSN?

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a basic-level degree for nurses who plan to become healthcare professionals. This route is the easiest and fastest option, as you can complete this in two years.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is more expensive and takes four years to complete. This degree is for nurses who plan to advance their careers or pursue further studies, such as the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

Here is a table that gives a very general comparison of ADN vs. BSN.

Getting an ADN degree is much easier and faster than getting a BSN degree. So if you want to go through nursing school fast, then earning an ADN degree is the option.

This course grants you the opportunity to focus on the basic healthcare procedures when you become an RN.

However, if your priority is to gain more in-depth training and more opportunities for employment or career advancement, then BSN is the option for you. 

You can also pursue a BSN degree if you already have an ADN degree. This is called an RN to BSN bridge program. 

How to Choose a Good Nursing School in Washington

There is no right or wrong answer when finding the best nursing school for you.

But it’s important to check a nursing school that is licensed by the Washington State Board of Nursing. Some schools run without a license, so you better do your research.

A school with high National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)-RN passing rates is also good. 

The NCLEX-RN is a very important part of your career as an RN. This exam will test the competency and skills of the students enrolled in the US and Canada. 

A high NCLEX rating, therefore, ensures that the school’s programs truly help the students get a good future career.

Step #3 – Take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) 

After getting into nursing school, you will need to proceed to take the NCLEX-RN. 

In Washington, the NCLEX-RN passing rate for nursing programs is 90.6%, which is a tad bit higher than the national passing rate of 88%.

You will need to submit your:

• online application form
• verification of education
• transcript of records
• and a nonrefundable application fee of $120.

You will also need to register through Pearson Vue to take the NCLEX exam and pay a $200 examination fee. 

Once your application is accepted, you can schedule your exam.

If you don’t get to pass the exam on your first try, you can still choose to retake it.

Step #4 – Obtain Your License

Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN exam, you can now get your RN license. 

Obtaining a Washington RN License by Examination

All aspiring RNs have to undergo the process of taking and passing the NCLEX. 

If you’ve never had an RN license before, then you need to apply for a Washington RN license by examination. 

Once you pass the exam, the Washington State Board of Nursing will give you your RN license. 

Obtaining a Washington RN License by Endorsement

If you are already an RN in another state, then you can apply for your RN license in Washington through endorsement. 

You must provide proof that you completed an approved nursing education program, seven hours of AIDS education, a current active out-of-state RN license, as well as the completed application with the applicable fee.

The application fee for RNs is $120.00. It’s worth noting that this is non-refundable.

Step # 5 – Get a Nursing Job

Now that you’ve gone through the previous steps, you’re now a registered nurse!

It’s time to find a job that suits your interests and needs. Gain valuable experience! 

On the other hand, having a license doesn’t mean education is already one and done.

If you are an AND-RN, you can choose to get back into nursing school and take an RN to BSN education program. If you are a BSN-RN you can pursue higher studies and become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). 

According to the Washington Center for Nursing, transition-to-practice (TPP) programs are being offered by several hospitals. Newly licensed RNs are often assigned as instructors. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming an RN in Washington

Now that we’ve discussed how to become an RN, let’s answer some FAQs about job opportunities, salaries, renewing licenses, and more.

What are the job opportunities for an RN in Washington?

Nurses in Washington are high in demand, with salaries among the highest in the nation.

Hospitals in Washington have a staffing committee for nurse-patient plans and policies. 

On the other hand, the nursing workforce in Washington is becoming more diverse in terms of gender, race, and ethnicity over the years.

Between 2020 and 2030, the projected job growth for RNs in Washington is 20.5%, this is according to Projections Central.

As of 2019, almost 75% of RNS under 30 years old with a BSN or a higher degree are guaranteed a job in Washington.

On another note, over 60% of RNs work in local, state, or private hospitals.

How much does an RN in Washington earn on average?

The average annual salary for RNs in Washington is $91,310, which is higher than the national average of $80,010. This is one of the highest-paying salaries across the US.

Here is a list of the highest-paying cities in Washington for RNs of the different opportunities and salaries you can get hired in, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Seattle — Tacoma — Bellevue - $95,120
• Olympia — Tumwater - $93,270
• Wenatchee - $88,550
• Spokane — Spokane Valley - $89,890
• Walla Walla - $91,280

How can I upgrade my license?

ADN nurses can choose to upgrade their licenses and apply for the BSN education program to get a BSN degree.

For those with a BSN degree, you can pursue the advanced practice nurse (APN) program. You can also take master’s and doctorate degrees in nursing.

When can I renew my license?

An RN license in Washington must be renewed annually on your birthday to maintain activation. There is a $120 renewal fee.

You can pay a $170 late renewal fee if you've missed the renewal deadline. 

For those who want to reactivate their licenses, you need to submit a reactivation application form and submit a $240 fee.

How do I apply for a nursing license in Washington if I am a nurse from another country? 

If you’re an RN with a license outside the US, you will need an educational evaluation from one of the approved organizations. 

You can request a copy of your transcripts directly from the school if the evaluation service wasn’t able to send the transcripts.

You will also need to provide proof that you have had AIDS training to get a nursing license in Washington.

There is also a non-refundable $120 application fee.

Helpful Resources for Washington RNs

• Washington Board of Nursing Website (Official)
• Information for RN Applicants (Official)
• Washington RN Continuing Education Requirements (Official)
• Associate Degree Programs (ADNS) Approved by Washington BON
• Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) approved by Washington BON

List of Associate Degree Programs (ADNs) in Washington

Here’s a list of ADN programs approved by the Washington BON:

Visit the Washington BON website for updates.

List of Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) in Washington

Here’s a list of BSN programs approved by the Washington BON:

Visit the Washington BON website for updates.

Conclusion

And there you have it! 

Whichever career path as an RN you’re going to take, many opportunities are waiting.

Becoming an RN in Washington is usually the same in other states. However, Washington is one of the highest-paying states for nurses. Salary opportunities won’t be much of a problem.

But a bit of a downside, the cost of living in Washington is also one of the most expensive in the US. 

That’s why it’s crucial to truly set a career path as an RN right from the start. 
Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below!