Apply for a License

Apply online

Getting started

Online Application Instructions

Online application instructions are on our website.

Once you have completed the process, you will find your pending credential number on Provider Credential Search. Refer to this credential number any time you contact the Department of Health or submit paperwork.

Apply on paper

The following forms are required for completing the application process. Please download and print forms:

Renewal requirements
  • Midwives must renew their license every year on or before their birthday.
  • Submit the Consultation, Emergency Transfer and Transport form. You may fill this form out electronically online or download, print and mail it in.
  • Data submission on all courses of care for every mother and newborn under your care to a department-approved research organization. The department-approved research organizations are Midwives Alliance of North American (MANA stats) and American Association of Birth Centers (AABC).
  • Participation in a peer review program. At least five clinical cases every two years are required.
  • Thirty hours of continuing education (CE) every three years:
    • A minimum of 25 hours must be directly related to the clinical practice of midwifery.
    • Any remaining hours may be in professional development activities that enhance the practice of the licensed midwife.
    • A licensed midwife shall obtain CE hours through one or more of the categories listed in WAC 246-834-355. Documentation for all activities must include licensee's name, date of activity, and number of hours. The department does not pre-approve continuing competency courses for presenters or licensees.
How to renew

Is your contact information current?

In order to serve you better, we must have your correct mailing address in our system. This is especially important because we mail your courtesy renewal notice and updated credential to the address on file. The U.S. Postal Service does not forward Department of Health mail. If your contact information is not current in our system, please complete and submit the contact information change form. If you have questions, feel free to contact our staff.

How to renew

By mail

In person

Online

Questions?

If you have questions about the renewal process, see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Fee Schedule

See fee information below

WAC 246-834-990 – Fees

  • Initial application - $541*
  • State examination (initial/retake) - $155
  • Renewal - $541*
  • Late renewal penalty - $265
  • Duplicate license - $10
  • Verification of license - $25
  • Expired license reissue - $300
  • Inactive license - $266*
  • Student midwife permit - $175

* Includes the $16 fee to access the University of Washington HEAL-WA health resources website.

Fees submitted with applications for initial credentialing, examinations, renewal, and other fees associated with the licensing and regulation of the profession are non-refundable, per WAC 246-12-340.

Process for Approving/Denying Applications

Credentialing staff members review the application and supporting documents to make an initial determination on eligibility. The recommendation is based upon the requirements outlined in chapter 18.50 RCW and chapter 246-834 WAC. Credentialing supervisors approve applications that don't have positive answers to personal data questions, have questionable verifying documents or are otherwise a “red flag” application. "Red flag" applications are forwarded to the exception application process for determination by the appropriate disciplinary authority. An applicant will be formally notified of a denial and has the opportunity for a hearing to appeal the decision.

Additional Licensing Information