The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) issued an April 4, 2022, reminder for health care providers who are licensed in another state and currently practicing in Washington under the Emergency Volunteer Practitioner Act: When the emergency declaration ceases to be in effect, you will need to have a Washington state license to continue practicing in Washington. Providers who do not have a Washington license are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
The Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioners Act allows individuals to be approved to practice in Washington if they are already licensed in another state and are in good standing, and the emergency declaration is in effect. This is not a license or permit, but instead, requires volunteers to register online with the DOH Volunteer Provider Unit.
The DOH Online Application Portal can be used to apply for the registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, advanced registered nurse practitioner and nursing technician licenses. Learn more and start the process by reviewing the online application instructions. WSHA has compiled additional resources regarding the Washington Nurse Licensure Process online here.