A Comprehensive Overview of Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. presents itself as more than just the nation's capital; it is a vibrant city abundant with significant cultural experiences and famous museums. Additionally, it boasts exceptional hospitals where registered nurses can earn competitive salaries. This guide will explore:
- The process for obtaining your Washington D.C. nursing license through examination - How to secure your license by endorsement - Guidelines for renewing your nursing license in Washington D.C. - Associated licensing fees - Continuing education requirements - Contact details for the Washington D.C. Board of Nursing
Begin your nursing career journey equipped with insights to help you find suitable jobs and clarify any questions you have. Let’s get underway! What role do you currently hold? - Staff nurse - Manager - Other
**How to Obtain Your Washington, D.C. Nursing License Through Examination**
**Step 1: Education** The Washington D.C. Board of Nursing welcomes candidates for licensure by examination who have graduated from either local nursing programs or programs accredited by a recognized national nursing body or the U.S. Department of Education. Obtaining your nursing education is a fundamental step in becoming a registered nurse, achievable through either a two-year Associate’s degree or a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
**Step 2: Application Process** Washington, D.C. has transitioned away from paper applications for nurse licensure. To initiate your application, go to the DC Health portal and register as a new user. After your account is created, be ready to upload the following documents: - A copy of a valid U.S. government or state-issued photo ID (like a passport or driver's license) - A 2”x2” photograph of your face against a plain white backdrop - Documentation proving any name changes, such as a marriage certificate or court order - A Social Security affidavit if you do not have a Social Security number - Special accommodation letters for NCLEX requests - A $237 application fee payable by Visa or Mastercard
Additionally, you must register for the NCLEX-RN exam, which has a registration fee of $200.
**Step 3: Submit Transcripts** Make sure that official transcripts from your nursing program are sent to the Board of Nursing. These can be emailed to the designated contact. If your institution does not send transcripts electronically, they can be mailed to: DC Health – Board of Nursing Attn: NCLEX Exam 899 North Capitol Street Washington, DC 20002
Request transcripts from all educational institutions you attended, particularly if you participated in an accelerated BSN or second-degree program.
**Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)** Completing a criminal background check through Fieldprint is a requirement. After you submit your application, you will receive an email with a code and a link to arrange your appointment following your fee payment.
**Step 5: Take the NCLEX** Once your application receives approval, the Board of Nursing will work with Pearson VUE to send you an email containing your Authorization to Test, enabling you to schedule your NCLEX-RN exam. The topics covered ensure you are well-prepared for your nursing career.
Be mindful that your application will be labeled as abandoned if you do not take the NCLEX within 90 days of submission. Should you fail to pass the NCLEX, you have the option to re-register 45 days after your last attempt. For graduates from approved programs who do not take the NCLEX within one to three years, enrollment in a review course will be necessary to reapply. For those with three to five years since graduation, similar refresher courses will be required before re-licensure.
**Licensing by Endorsement (For Existing RN License Holders)** To transfer your active license from another state to Washington, D.C., proceed to the online license portal to create an account. Be prepared to provide: - A valid U.S. government or state-issued photo ID - A 2”x2” face photograph against a plain white background - Documentation for any name changes, if applicable - A Social Security affidavit if needed - A $280 application fee payable by Visa or Mastercard
Upon completion of the application, you will also need to: - Undergo a criminal background check through Fieldprint and follow the guidance to schedule it. - Request official verification from the state of your original licensure and, if relevant, your current state. Utilize NURSYS for participating states, as a fee applies for this service. For non-participating states, verification should be emailed directly to the DC Board of Nursing.
**Renewing Your Washington, D.C. Nursing License**
**Step 1: Submission Timing** Every two years, nurses in Washington, D.C. must renew their licenses. The deadline for renewal is June 30th each year, with the renewal cycle starting in mid-April, giving you about ten weeks to complete the process. Late renewals attract an added charge of $85.
In addition to fulfilling continuing education requirements, registered nurses must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination along with a renewal fee of $195.
**Step 2: Competency Requirements** To renew your license, you need to complete 24 hours of continuing competency, including specific hours in cultural competency concerning LGBTQ patients, awareness of HIV/AIDS, and COVID vaccinations. Retaining documentation is not mandatory, but it should be kept for at least two years in case of audits.
**Step 3: Renewal Application Submission** Washington, D.C. exclusively accepts online license renewals, accessible only through compatible web browsers, excluding Microsoft Edge, Safari, or Internet Explorer. Be advised that mobile device renewals are unsupported.
**Washington D.C. Nursing Licensing Fees** Below is a summary of the fees associated with nursing licensure in the District of Columbia, whether you are a first-time nurse or transferring from another state: - **Examination Licensing Fees:** - NCLEX exam fee: $200 - Application fee: $187 (RN/LPN) - Criminal background check fee: $50 - **Endorsement Licensing Fees:** - Application fee: $230 (RN/LPN) - APRN fees (with one authority): $230 (APRN authority fee); $145 (RN license fee); $145 (for each additional APRN authority); $130 (controlled substance authorization fee) - Criminal background check fee: $50
- **License Renewal Fees:** - Application fee: $145 (LPN/RN); $263 (APRN)
*Note: Fees are subject to amendment.*
**Continuing Education Requirements** Registered Nurses (RN) are mandated to complete 24 contact hours every two years (with designated hours on COVID vaccinations and HIV/AIDS), while Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) are required to acquire 18 contact hours. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) also have distinct requirements for renewal.
For any inquiries about the licensing process or further clarifications, please contact the Board of Nursing directly.
**Discover Additional Resources in Washington D.C.** Stay informed about leading hospitals in the area and the average salary ranges for RNs.
