By becoming a nursing compact state, Washington is joining the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), an agreement between states that allows nurses to hold one multi-state license (MSL) and have the ability to practice in other states that are part of the compact agreement. This applies to both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses (LPN/VNs).
You can learn more in our Complete Guide to Nursing Compact States.
When is the effective date for Washington joining the nursing compact?
Beginning July 24, 2023, nurses with an active MSL issued from another state will be able to practice in Washington state.
What do I need to do if I hold an active Multi-state License (MSL) from another state and want to practice in Washington?
If you have an active MSL from another state, starting July 24, 2023, you can practice in Washington state by following these steps:
Verify and communicate your MSL information to your employer.
Complete the required Suicide Prevention Training (6 hours) and report completion to your employer.
Update or submit demographic data via Nursys e-Notify and report completion to your employer.
Do I need to apply for a new license in Washington if I already have an MSL?
No, if you hold an active MSL from another compact state, you do not need to apply for a separate Washington license. However, you must meet the requirements outlined in the answer to the question above.
What happens if I move to Washington and it becomes my primary state of residence?
If you move to Washington and declare it as your primary state of residence, you will need to apply for a Washington nursing license. The Washington Board of Nursing is in the process of developing MSL applications and related internal processes. You can check directly with the Washington BON for the latest updates.
I am a nurse in Washington, but I don’t have a compact license. How does this change affect me?
If you hold a single-state license in Washington, you will continue to renew and manage your license as you have been. The Washington BON will provide updates as they determine how and when they will be issuing MSL moving forward.
❗️For more information on nursing licensure in Washington and other states, be sure you check out our Nursing Licensure Guide!