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Washington State Nursing Fingerprinting (Out-of-State) – 2026 Complete Guide

If you're applying for a Washington State nursing license from outside the state, you may be required to complete a fingerprint-based background check.


This step is required for many applicants and is one of the most common causes of licensing delays if done incorrectly.


This guide explains exactly how Washington State fingerprinting works in 2026, based on official guidance from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and Board of Nursing.



Does Washington Require Fingerprints for Nursing Licenses?


Yes—many applicants must complete a fingerprint-based FBI background check.

According to the Washington State Board of Nursing:

  • Fingerprinting may be required after you apply

  • Instructions are sent by email after application review

  • Background checks are conducted through:

    • Washington State Patrol (WSP)

    • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

👉 You should not complete fingerprints until instructed.



Official Washington DOH Fingerprint Guidance


The Washington Department of Health provides official fingerprint instructions here:


Key takeaways from DOH:

  • Fingerprints are required for federal background checks

  • Applicants must submit prints that can be processed by the FBI

  • Fees apply for processing fingerprint-based checks



When Do You Need Fingerprinting?


You are most likely required to submit fingerprints if:

  • You have an out-of-state address

  • You are applying by endorsement or exam

  • Your application requires an FBI-level background check

The Board of Nursing reviews your application first and then sends fingerprint instructions if needed.



Live Scan vs Ink Fingerprinting (Washington Rules)


Washington allows two methods depending on your location:

Live Scan (Washington Residents)

  • Completed at IdentoGO locations

  • Submitted electronically

  • Faster processing

👉 Must be completed in Washington State


Ink Fingerprinting (Out-of-State Applicants)

If you are outside Washington:

👉 You must use an FD-258 fingerprint card


According to the Board of Nursing:

  • You must obtain fingerprint cards from your fingerprinting provider

  • The state does not provide fingerprint cards

  • Completed cards must be mailed for processing


Also, Washington licensing guidance confirms:

  • You must apply first before starting fingerprinting

  • Out-of-state applicants typically cannot submit electronic prints


Step-by-Step: Washington Ink Fingerprinting (Out-of-State)


Step 1: Apply First

Submit your Washington nursing license application.

👉 DOH will email you fingerprint instructions if required


Step 2: Get an FD-258 Fingerprint Card

You must obtain this from:

  • A fingerprinting provider

  • Law enforcement agency

Washington does not send fingerprint cards


Step 3: Complete Fingerprinting

Have your fingerprints taken by a trained professional.

They must be:

  • Clear

  • Rolled correctly

  • Fully legible

Poor-quality prints are one of the most common causes of delays.


Step 4: Mail Your Fingerprint Card

Submit:

  • Completed FD-258 card

  • DOH instruction letter

  • Required payment

Washington will:

  • Process through the Washington State Patrol

  • Forward to the FBI for background check ()


Step 5: Wait for Processing

Typical timeline:

  • Background check processing begins after submission

  • Delays may occur if prints are rejected or require review

The DOH requires fingerprint-based background checks before issuing a license.


Important Rules Most Applicants Miss


❗ Apply First, Then Fingerprint

Washington requires you to receive instructions before submitting fingerprints.


❗ Fingerprints Cannot Be Reused

Each application requires a new background check submission.


❗ Out-of-State = Ink Cards

Most out-of-state applicants must use FD-258 cards instead of Live Scan.



Common Mistakes That Delay Washington Licenses

  • Sending fingerprints before instructions

  • Using poor-quality fingerprint cards

  • Missing documents in your mailing packet

  • Smudged or unreadable prints

If there is an issue:

👉 You will be required to resubmit fingerprints

*Colorado Springs Fingerprinting has a satisfaction guarantee for their fingerprinting services and if your prints are returned we will re-roll your prints for free.



Where to Get Fingerprinted (Colorado Option)


If you're applying from Colorado, you can complete your fingerprinting locally and mail your card to Washington.


At Colorado Springs Fingerprinting, we help Washington nursing applicants with:

  • FD-258 fingerprint cards

  • Proper ink fingerprinting

  • Ensuring all required fields are completed

  • Preparing cards for secure mailing



Related Guide (Internal Resource)


For a full breakdown of fingerprinting requirements and mailing best practices:



FAQ: Washington Nursing Fingerprinting


Do I need fingerprints for a Washington nursing license?

Not always. The DOH will notify you after reviewing your application.


Can I do Live Scan outside Washington?

In most cases, no. Out-of-state applicants must use FD-258 cards.


How long does it take to get my fingerprint based background check back from Washington State Patrol?

Processing times vary depending on fingerprint quality and background check results.


Where do I get fingerprint cards?

From your fingerprinting provider—not the Washington Board of Nursing.


Final Thoughts

Washington State’s fingerprinting process is straightforward—but only if you follow the correct sequence:

  1. Apply first

  2. Wait for instructions

  3. Complete fingerprints correctly

  4. Mail everything properly

Following official DOH and Board of Nursing guidance helps avoid delays and ensures your application moves forward smoothly.

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