A registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) licensed under this chapter with an expired license as defined in WAC 246-12-010 may return their license to an active status. During the time the license is expired, the nurse cannot practice in Washington state.

1. (1) If the license has been expired for three years or less, the nurse shall meet the requirements in WAC 246-12-040 to return to active status.

2. (2) If the license has been expired for more than three years and the nurse has been in active practice in another United States (U.S.) or Canadian jurisdiction, the nurse shall:

   1. (a) Submit verification of active practice from any other U.S. or Canadian jurisdiction; and
   2. (b) Meet the requirements in WAC 246-12-040.

3. (3) If the license has been expired for more than three years and the nurse has not been in active practice in another U.S. or Canadian jurisdiction, the nurse shall:

   1. (a) Successfully complete a board-approved refresher course. The nurse may be issued a limited educational authorization to enroll in the refresher course. The limited educational authorization is valid only while working under the direct supervision of a preceptor and is not valid for employment as a nurse;
   2. (b) Meet the requirements in WAC 246-12-040.
4. (4) Fees are specified in WAC 246-840-990.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.79.010, 18.79.110, and 43.07.041. WSR 26-02-031, s 246-840-111, filed 12/30/25, effective 1/30/26. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.79.010 and 18.79.110. WSR 21-11-032, § 246-840-111, filed 5/12/21, effective 6/12/21; WSR 10-24-047, § 246-840-111, filed 11/24/10, effective 1/1/11. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.280. WSR 98-05-060, § 246-840-111, filed 2/13/98, effective 3/16/98.]