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Processing Time
2-4 weeks
From complete application
Application Fee
$230
Renewal: $195 · Temp license available
Compact (Nurse Licensure Compact)
No
Not a Nurse Licensure Compact member state
Renewal
24 hours
Every 2 years
DC is not an NLC member; compact multi-state license holders cannot practice using their home state license. All RNs working in DC must obtain a separate DC-issued temporary or permanent license through endorsement. No compact privilege option exists.
Washington DC uses an online portal endorsement process for registered nurses already licensed in another state. You'll need to submit your completed application along with supporting documents and the $230 application fee.
License verification is handled through Nursys or direct board verification. Washington DC requires verification from every state where you hold or have held a registered nurse license, so request verification early to avoid delays.
Background check requirements vary by applicant — confirm the current fingerprinting and screening steps with the DC Health - Board of Nursing. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible, since background check processing is one of the most common sources of delay.
After all components are received, the Board reviews applications on a rolling basis. Check the DC Health - Board of Nursing website for status updates on your application.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Endorsement Application | $230 |
| Renewal | $195 (every 2 years) |
| Fingerprinting | $25-75 (fingerprinting) |
| Nursys verification | $30 |
| Estimated First-Time Cost | $285–$335 |
Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting. Many staffing agencies, including Fusion Medical Staffing, offer licensure reimbursement programs to help offset these expenses.
Washington DC issues temporary nursing licenses, allowing registered nurses to begin practicing while their permanent endorsement application is being processed. For travelers, this is often the fastest path to starting an assignment.
Eligibility requirements:
Issuance timeline:
Denial risks:
Important for travelers: 90-day temporary license expires automatically upon issuance of permanent license or denial of full endorsement, whichever occurs first; no extensions available. Temporary license revoked immediately if permanent license is denied; applicant cannot continue working and must cease practice on temporary license effective date of denial. License revoked if applicant fails to maintain eligibility status (e.g., primary state license lapses or is suspended during 90-day temporary period). Criminal charges filed or conviction occurs during 90-day temporary period; board may initiate emergency revocation proceedings before 90 days conclude.
Washington DC registered nurse endorsement applications typically take 2-4 weeks to process. The timeline is subject to moderate variability depending on the completeness of your application and external factors.
In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 10-14 business days if applicant submits complete application with clean background check and primary state board responds to verification within 3-5 business days.
Common sources of delay:
Washington DC does not offer an expedited processing track. The best way to minimize your wait time is to ensure all application components — fingerprints, verification, and any required exams — are completed before or immediately after submitting your application.
Washington DC requires 24 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for registered nurse license renewal.
DC Health - Board of Nursing
Board Website·Application Portal
Phone: (877) 672-2174
Email: [email protected]
Please note that while Fusion Medical Staffing strives to provide the most current and accurate information, we cannot guarantee the completeness or timeliness of the information provided. Requirements and processes can change frequently. Healthcare professionals are strongly encouraged to verify details directly with DC Health - Board of Nursing's official website.
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