Nursing · WA
Can a Registered Nurse transfer a license to Washington as a military spouse?
Data as of May 2026|Source: Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) commission + DOJ Servicemembers Initiative
Published by the Honest MOS Editorial DeskVerified against DoD/.gov sourcesUpdated May 2026Editorial standards
✓ Yes — compact transfer
Yes. Washington is a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), so a Registered Nurse holding a multistate/compact license can practice in WA without re-applying. Compact license travels with you to any other compact-member state automatically. Outside compact states, fall back on VAEIA 2022 / 50 USC 4025a portability.
Your nursing board in Washington
Washington military-spouse provision
Military spouses may receive a temporary practice permit issued within 7 days and valid for 180 days, or use no-fee federal portability under 50 U.S.C. § 4025a.
Official source ↗About the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC)
Allows an RN or LPN/VN with a multistate license to practice in any other compact-member state without re-licensing. Largest compact in the country.
Official compact site ↗All Nursing member states
40 jurisdictions. Tap any to check that destination for this profession.