License guide → District of Columbia

District of Columbia Nursing License by Endorsement

For RNs already licensed in another state. From the District of Columbia Board of Nursing (DC Health).

Nurse Licensure Compact
No — you need a District of Columbia license
Temporary license
Not stated by the board
Processing time
Allow 30 business days after applying before checking status
Application fee
$280 (Combined application and criminal background check fee; Nursys verification $30 extra.)
Fingerprints / background check
Required
Good to know
Verification from non-Nursys states (CA, MI, PA) must be requested directly from those boards.
Apply with the District of Columbia boardTravel nurse jobs in District of Columbia

Sources: dchealth.dc.gov · nursecompact.com. Compiled November 2026. Fees and rules change; confirm with the board before you apply.