How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Washington 2025
To become a licensed psychologist in Washington, you must complete a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD) from an accredited program, fulfill 3,300 hours of supervised professional experience including a qualifying 1,500-hour internship, and pass both the national EPPP examination and Washington's jurisprudence exam. The complete process typically takes 8-12 years from undergraduate education through licensure.
If you're planning to practice psychology in Washington, you're entering a field with strong demand and competitive compensation. The Washington State Employment Security Department projects steady growth for psychology positions through 2031, with new opportunities opening up across clinical, counseling, school, and specialized psychology settings. Washington's thriving mental health services sector means psychologists are offered competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages.
Psychologists throughout the country share a fundamental goal: ensuring their clients' mental and emotional health while increasing overall well-being. This means providing accurate diagnoses and developing effective treatment plans for mental health conditions and behavioral challenges. To achieve this level of expertise, Washington requires a rigorous educational and training foundation, which is why the state maintains strict licensing requirements.
Table of Contents
- Washington Psychologist Licensing Overview
- Step 1: Educational Requirements
- Step 2: Supervised Professional Experience
- Step 3: Licensing Examinations
- Step 4: License Application Process
- Continuing Education & License Renewal
- Psychologist Salary & Career Outlook in Washington
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Washington Psychologist Licensing Overview
The Washington State Department of Health oversees all psychologist licensing in the state. Washington's requirements are among the most comprehensive in the nation, reflecting the state's commitment to high-quality mental health services.
Here's what sets Washington apart: the state requires two separate licensing examinations rather than one. Beyond the nationally recognized EPPP exam, you'll also complete Washington's jurisprudence examination, which tests your knowledge of state-specific laws, ethics, and professional practices. This dual-exam requirement ensures psychologists practicing in Washington understand both national standards and state-specific regulations.
The licensing process involves four main steps that build upon each other: completing doctoral education, accumulating supervised experience, passing required examinations, and submitting your license application. Each step has specific requirements that must be met before progressing to the next phase.
Step 1: Educational Requirements for Washington Psychologist Licensing
The foundation of becoming a psychologist in Washington starts with earning the proper educational credentials. The state requires a doctoral degree in psychology from a regionally accredited institution. This means pursuing either a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) from a program that meets rigorous academic standards.
Doctoral Program Requirements
Your doctoral program must meet standards recognized by the Washington State Department of Health. While APA accreditation is not legally required by Washington, the program must provide equivalent academic and training standards, including comprehensive education in psychological theory, research methods, assessment techniques, and clinical practice. Programs from regionally accredited institutions are evaluated by the Psychology Board to ensure they meet these standards. Most doctoral programs take 4-7 years to complete beyond your bachelor's degree.
Washington offers several respected doctoral degree programs in psychology, including options at:
- University of Washington - Offers APA-accredited PhD programs in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and various research specializations
- Seattle Pacific University - Provides clinical psychology doctoral training with integration of faith and practice
- Antioch University Seattle - Features PsyD programs focused on social justice and community mental health
- Washington State University - Delivers PhD programs with research emphasis in multiple specialty areas
You'll also find accredited online and hybrid doctoral programs that allow you to complete coursework while maintaining professional commitments. When selecting a program, verify that it meets Washington's accreditation standards and includes the required supervised clinical experience.
School Psychologist Alternative Pathway
Washington provides an alternative pathway specifically for those pursuing school psychology. If you plan to work exclusively in educational settings, you don't need a doctoral degree. Instead, you can earn a Master's Degree in School Psychology (or equivalent) and complete a state-approved Educational Staff Associate (ESA) school psychologist preparation program through the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.
This pathway requires different certifications through the Professional Educator Standards Board rather than the Department of Health. School psychologists work primarily in K-12 settings, conducting assessments, developing interventions, and supporting student mental health within educational environments.
Timeline for Doctoral Education
The time commitment for completing your doctoral education varies based on your starting point and program structure:
- Bachelor's degree: 4 years (psychology or related field recommended)
- Master's degree: 2-3 years (optional, but many doctoral programs include master 's-level training)
- Doctoral program: 4-7 years, including internship
- Total timeline: 8-12 years from undergraduate entry to license eligibility
Many doctoral programs integrate your supervised internship into the degree requirements, which means you're simultaneously working toward your degree and accumulating the supervised hours needed for licensure. This integration can streamline your path to becoming a licensed psychologist.
For comprehensive program information and to explore various psychology degree programs, you can compare accredited options that meet Washington's requirements.
Step 2: Supervised Professional Experience Requirements
Beyond educational credentials, Washington requires substantial supervised professional experience to ensure you're prepared for independent practice. The state mandates a minimum of 3,300 hours of supervised professional experience, with specific requirements for how those hours are structured.
Internship Requirements (1,500 Hours)
At least 1,500 of your supervised hours must come from a qualifying internship completed during your doctoral program. This internship must be:
- Completed within a two-year period to meet continuity requirements
- Supervised by a licensed psychologist or qualified professional
- Conducted in an organized health service training program
- Focused on providing direct psychological services to clients
- Documented with verification from your training site
Many APA-accredited doctoral programs include pre-doctoral internships that automatically satisfy this requirement. If your program integrates an internship, those hours count toward your total supervised experience.
Post-Doctoral Supervised Experience (1,800 Hours)
The remaining 1,800 hours of supervised experience can be completed either during your doctoral program or through post-doctoral supervised practice. This experience must occur under the direct supervision of a Washington-licensed psychologist who takes responsibility for the quality of your work.
Your supervisor must:
- Hold an active, unrestricted Washington psychology license
- Provide a minimum of one hour of direct, face-to-face supervision per week
- Review your case documentation and treatment plans regularly
- Be available for consultation on clinical matters
- Submit supervision reports documenting your training progress
You can accumulate post-doctoral hours through various settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practices, university counseling centers, and government agencies. The key requirement is working under proper supervision while providing psychological services.
Documenting Your Supervised Hours
Throughout your supervised experience, maintain detailed records including:
- Dates and duration of supervised activities
- Types of psychological services provided
- Supervision hours and supervisor information
- Setting and population served
- Specific competencies developed
The Department of Health provides forms for tracking supervised experience. Your supervisor must verify all hours and competencies before you can submit your license application. Accurate documentation is essential because discrepancies can delay your licensing process.
Step 3: Licensing Examinations for Washington Psychologists
Washington requires two separate examinations before granting a psychology license: the national EPPP exam and the Washington State Psychologist Jurisprudence Examination. You must pass both to demonstrate competency in professional psychology and understanding of Washington's specific regulations.
Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
The EPPP is a standardized, computer-based examination administered throughout the country at designated testing centers. This exam serves as the national standard for assessing foundational knowledge in professional psychology. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) develops and maintains the EPPP to ensure consistent evaluation across jurisdictions.
EPPP Exam Content:
The examination covers eight major content areas drawn from your doctoral training:
- Biological basis of behavior: Neuroanatomy, psychopharmacology, and physiological psychology
- Cognitive-affective basis of behavior: Learning, memory, perception, and motivation
- Social and cultural basis of behavior: Social psychology, diversity, and cultural factors
- Growth and lifespan development: Developmental psychology across the lifespan
- Assessment and diagnosis: Psychological testing, assessment methods, and diagnostic procedures
- Treatment and intervention: Evidence-based therapies and intervention strategies
- Research methods and statistics: Research design, data analysis, and interpretation
- Ethical and professional issues: Ethics codes, professional standards, and legal issues
The current EPPP consists of 225 multiple-choice questions, with 175 scored items and 50 pre-test items. You'll have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete the examination. The exam uses a scaled scoring system, with Washington requiring a passing score set by the state board.
EPPP Preparation and Registration:
Most candidates spend 3-6 months preparing for the EPPP using study materials, practice exams, and review courses. Popular preparation resources include:
- ASPPB's official EPPP study materials
- Commercial prep courses (AATBS, PsyPrep, Academic Review)
- Practice examinations and question banks
- Study groups with fellow doctoral students
- Graduate program review courses
To register for the EPPP, you'll create an account through ASPPB and pay the examination fee (currently $600) plus a $87.50 Prometric testing center fee, for a total of $687.50. After Washington approves your eligibility, you can schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center. Test centers are located throughout Washington and neighboring states for convenient access.
If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the EPPP after a mandated waiting period. Washington allows multiple retake attempts, though you'll need to pay the examination fee each time.
Washington State Psychologist Jurisprudence Examination
In addition to the EPPP, Washington requires a state-specific jurisprudence examination. This online test covers Washington's laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing psychological practice. The 25-question exam ensures you understand state-specific requirements that may differ from national standards.
The jurisprudence exam addresses:
- Washington Administrative Code (WAC) provisions for psychologists
- State laws regulating psychological practice
- Scope of practice limitations and requirements
- Mandatory reporting obligations
- Record-keeping and documentation standards
- Telehealth regulations specific to Washington
- Professional boundaries and ethics
You can access study materials for the jurisprudence exam through the Department of Health website. The online examination can be taken from your home or office, providing flexibility in scheduling. You'll receive immediate results upon completion.
Step 4: License Application Process
Once you've completed your education, supervised experience, and examinations, you're ready to apply for your Washington psychologist license. The Department of Health manages the application process and typically processes applications within 60-90 days, though complex cases may take longer.
Application Requirements and Documentation
Your license application packet must include:
- Completed application form: Available through the Department of Health online portal
- Application fee: Current fee is $425 (subject to change)
- Official transcripts: Doctoral degree transcripts sent directly from your university
- Supervised experience documentation: Verification forms from all supervisors confirming your 3,300 hours
- EPPP score report: Official score transfer from ASPPB
- Jurisprudence exam results: Documented through the DOH system
- Criminal background check: Fingerprint-based check through Washington State Patrol
- Professional references: Letters from supervisors and colleagues
The Department of Health conducts a thorough review of your credentials, verifying education, training, and examination results. They'll also review your background check to ensure compliance with professional standards.
Application Timeline and Processing
Here's what to expect during the application process:
- Submission: Complete your online application and upload the required documents
- Initial review (2-3 weeks): DOH reviews for completeness and may request additional documentation
- Credential verification (4-6 weeks): Staff verify education, experience, and exam scores
- Background check (2-4 weeks): State Patrol processes fingerprints and criminal history
- Final review (1-2 weeks): Application reviewed by the psychology board
- License issuance: If approved, your license is issued, and you can begin practice
The Department of Health will notify you if they need additional information or clarification on any part of your application. Responding quickly to these requests helps prevent delays in processing.
Licensure by Endorsement for Out-of-State Psychologists
If you currently hold a psychology license in another state, Washington offers licensure by endorsement rather than full reciprocity. This means you can apply for a probationary license, but you must still meet Washington's legal and training standards even though you're already licensed elsewhere. Your credentials will be individually evaluated to ensure they align with Washington requirements.
The probationary license allows you to practice in Washington for up to one year (renewable once) while completing any additional requirements needed for full licensure. This pathway benefits psychologists relocating to Washington or those seeking to expand their practice into the state, though you'll still need to demonstrate compliance with Washington's specific standards.
To explore licensing requirements in other states, you can review psychology licensing requirements by state to understand how Washington compares to other jurisdictions.
Continuing Education & License Renewal Requirements
Maintaining your Washington psychology license requires ongoing professional development through continuing education. The state mandates that licensed psychologists stay current with evolving practices, research, and ethical standards.
Annual License Renewal
Psychology licenses in Washington expire annually on your birthday. You must renew your license each year by completing the renewal application and paying the renewal fee (currently $225). The Department of Health sends renewal reminders 60 days before your expiration date.
To maintain an active status, you'll need to:
- Complete the required continuing education hours
- Maintain professional liability insurance (if in independent practice)
- Report any changes to your practice information
- Disclose any disciplinary actions or legal issues
- Pay the annual renewal fee on time
Continuing Education Requirements
Washington requires 60 hours of continuing education every three years, with specific mandates for certain topic areas. You must complete this education through approved providers that meet the state's standards for quality and relevance.
Required continuing education topics:
- 4 hours in ethics: Required every 3-year licensing cycle - Professional ethics, boundaries, and decision-making
- 2 hours in health equity: Required every 4 years - Cultural competency, diversity, and reducing health disparities
- 6 hours in suicide assessment and intervention: Required every 3-year licensing cycle - Risk assessment, safety planning, and crisis intervention
The remaining hours can address any topics relevant to your practice area, including new treatment modalities, assessment techniques, specialized populations, or emerging research. You can earn continuing education through:
- APA-approved continuing education programs
- Academic courses at accredited universities
- Professional conferences and workshops
- Online continuing education courses
- Peer consultation groups (limited hours)
Keep detailed records of all continuing education, including certificates of completion, program descriptions, and dates attended. The Department of Health may audit your continuing education compliance, requiring documentation of completed hours.
Psychologist Salary & Career Outlook in Washington
Washington offers competitive compensation for psychologists, with salaries typically exceeding national averages. The state's strong economy, robust healthcare system, and emphasis on mental health services create favorable conditions for psychology career opportunities.
Current Salary Data for Washington Psychologists
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, psychologists in Washington earn salaries above the national median. The national median annual wage for psychologists reached $94,310 in May 2024, with Washington psychologists typically earning 5-15% above this baseline depending on specialization and setting.
Salary ranges vary significantly based on several factors, including experience level, practice setting, geographic location within the state, and area of specialization. Entry-level psychologists typically start at the lower end of the salary range, while experienced practitioners with established practices can earn substantially more.
| Specialization | Entry-Level (0-3 years) | Mid-Career (4-9 years) | Experienced (10+ years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $70,000 - $85,000 | $90,000 - $115,000 | $120,000 - $160,000+ |
| School Psychologists | $65,000 - $80,000 | $85,000 - $105,000 | $110,000 - $135,000 |
| Industrial-Organizational Psychologists | $75,000 - $95,000 | $100,000 - $130,000 | $135,000 - $180,000+ |
| Neuropsychologists | $80,000 - $100,000 | $110,000 - $140,000 | $145,000 - $200,000+ |
Geographic Salary Variations Within Washington
Location significantly impacts psychologist compensation within Washington. Metropolitan areas tend to offer higher salaries but also come with an increased cost of living. Here's how salaries compare across major Washington regions:
- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area: Highest salaries in the state, typically 15-25% above the state average, reflecting high demand and cost of living
- Spokane metro area: Competitive salaries around the state average with a lower cost of living, making it attractive for work-life balance
- Vancouver-Camas area: Growing market with salaries slightly above state average, benefits from proximity to Portland metro
- Tri-Cities and Yakima Valley: Moderate salaries balanced by significantly lower living costs and strong community connections
- Rural and smaller communities: May offer loan forgiveness programs, housing assistance, or other incentives to attract psychologists to underserved areas
Employment Settings and Compensation
Your practice setting substantially influences earning potential. Private practice psychologists often have the highest earning potential but also face greater business expenses and income variability. Here's a breakdown by employment setting:
- Private practice: Highest potential earnings ($110,000-$200,000+) but requires business management skills and carries more financial risk
- Hospitals and medical centers: Stable salaries with comprehensive benefits ($90,000-$140,000) plus opportunities for specialization
- Community mental health centers: Competitive salaries ($75,000-$110,000) often with loan forgiveness programs and public service benefits
- School districts: Consistent pay with summers off and excellent benefits ($70,000-$115,000), though may require educator certification
- Universities and research institutions: Academic year salaries ($70,000-$120,000) with opportunities for research grants and consulting
- Government agencies: Structured pay scales ($80,000-$130,000) with strong job security and comprehensive benefits
Employment Growth and Job Outlook
The Washington State Employment Security Department projects steady growth for psychology positions through 2031. Annual growth rates for various psychology specialties hover between 1.5% and 2.0%, creating consistent opportunities for newly licensed psychologists entering the field.
Several factors drive continued demand for psychological services in Washington:
- Increased mental health awareness: Growing recognition of mental health importance creates more demand for services
- Insurance coverage expansion: Improved mental health parity in insurance coverage increases access to psychological services
- Aging population: Growing need for geropsychology services as baby boomers age
- School-based services: Expanding emphasis on student mental health creates opportunities for school psychologists
- Telehealth expansion: Remote service delivery opens new practice opportunities and geographic flexibility
- Specialized services growth: Increasing demand for neuropsychological assessments, forensic psychology, and specialized treatment programs
The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that approximately 2,910 psychologists across all specializations currently practice in Washington. This includes clinical and counseling psychologists, school psychologists, industrial-organizational psychologists, and other specialized practitioners. This creates a robust professional community with networking and collaboration opportunities.
Find information regarding tuition, financial aid, enrollment dates, and curriculum by requesting information from the programs below:
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Psychologist in Washington
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Washington?
The complete process typically takes 8-12 years from starting your undergraduate education through receiving your license. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 4-7 years for a doctoral program (including internship), and additional time for post-doctoral supervised hours if needed. Some candidates complete the process faster through accelerated programs or by entering with advanced degrees, while others take longer if they work part-time or need additional supervised experience.
Can I practice psychology in Washington with a master's degree?
You cannot practice as a licensed psychologist in Washington with only a master's degree. The state requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) for psychology licensure. However, you can work in related mental health fields with a master's degree, such as becoming a licensed mental health counselor, licensed marriage and family therapist, or licensed clinical social worker. School psychologists can work in educational settings with a master's degree and proper certification through the Professional Educator Standards Board.
Does Washington accept psychology licenses from other states?
Washington offers licensure by endorsement for psychologists licensed in other states, but you must still meet Washington's legal and training standards even though you're already licensed elsewhere. You can apply for a probationary license that allows you to practice for up to one year (renewable once) while completing any additional Washington-specific requirements. Your credentials will be individually evaluated to ensure they align with Washington requirements.
What's the difference between the EPPP and the Washington jurisprudence exam?
The EPPP is a comprehensive 225-question national examination testing your knowledge of psychology theory, research, assessment, treatment, and ethics. It's administered at testing centers and takes over 4 hours to complete. The Washington jurisprudence exam is a shorter, 25-question online test specifically covering Washington state laws, regulations, and ethical standards for psychology practice. You must pass both examinations to receive your Washington license. The EPPP assesses your general psychology knowledge, while the jurisprudence exam ensures you understand Washington-specific requirements.
How much does the EPPP exam cos,t and what's the pass rate?
The EPPP exam currently costs $600, plus a $87.50 Prometric testing center fee, for a total of $687.50. This fee covers one examination attempt. If you need to retake the exam, you'll pay the full fee again. Pass rates vary by year but typically range from 70-80% for first-time test-takers. Most candidates who fail pass on their second or third attempt. To improve your chances of passing, invest in quality study materials and dedicate 3-6 months to focused preparation before your exam date.
Do I need malpractice insurance to practice psychology in Washington?
Washington doesn't legally require psychologists to carry malpractice insurance, but it's highly recommended and often required by employers or facilities where you practice. If you establish a private practice or independent practice, most experts consider malpractice insurance essential to protect your personal assets from potential liability claims. Typical policies for psychologists range from $1,500-$3,500 annually, depending on your practice type, specialty, and coverage limits. Many professional organizations offer group rates for malpractice insurance.
Can I provide telehealth services as a Washington psychologist?
Yes, Washington psychologists can provide telehealth services to clients located within Washington. The state has specific regulations governing telehealth practice, including requirements for informed consent, technology security standards, and emergency protocols. You must complete training in telehealth delivery as part of your continuing education. If you want to provide services to clients in other states, you'll need to be licensed in those states as well, as psychological licenses don't typically extend across state lines.
What continuing education do I need to renew my Washington psychology license?
Washington requires 60 hours of continuing education every three years. Within each 3-year cycle, you must complete 4 hours in ethics and 6 hours in suicide assessment and intervention. Every 4 years, you must complete 2 hours in health equity training. The remaining hours can address any professionally relevant topics. You'll need to track your continuing education carefully and keep certificates of completion, as the Department of Health may audit your compliance. Licenses renew annually on your birthday, so plan your continuing education schedule accordingly.
How do I change my psychology license to inactive status in Washington?
You can place your Washington psychology license on inactive status if you're not currently practicing. Contact the Department of Health to request inactive status and pay the inactive renewal fee (lower than active renewal). While on inactive status, you cannot practice psychology or hold yourself out as a psychologist in Washington. To reactivate your license, you'll need to demonstrate you've maintained continuing education requirements, pay the reactivation fee, and meet any other current requirements. Inactive status is useful if you're temporarily not practicing due to personal reasons, career transitions, or retirement.
What's the job market like for newly licensed psychologists in Washington?
The job market for newly licensed psychologists in Washington is generally favorable, especially in community mental health, school psychology, and hospital settings. Private practice positions tend to be more competitive and often require additional experience. Rural and underserved areas often have more immediate openings and may offer loan forgiveness programs or signing bonuses. The Seattle metro area has the most total positions but also the most competition. New psychologists should expect to spend 2-6 months in a job search, with better prospects if they're willing to work in diverse settings or geographic locations.
Key Takeaways
- Doctoral degree required: Washington mandates a PhD or PsyD from an accredited program for psychology licensure, with an alternative master's pathway for school psychologists working exclusively in educational settings.
- Substantial supervised experience: You must complete 3,300 hours of supervised professional experience, including a qualifying 1,500-hour internship within a two-year period.
- Dual examination requirement: Pass both the national EPPP exam and Washington's state-specific jurisprudence examination to demonstrate competency in psychology and state regulations.
- Annual renewal with continuing education: Licenses renew yearly on your birthday, requiring 60 hours of continuing education every three years, including 4 hours in ethics and 6 hours in suicide intervention per cycle, plus 2 hours in health equity every 4 years.
- Competitive compensation: Washington psychologists typically earn above the national average, with salaries ranging from $70,000 for entry-level positions to $200,000+ for experienced specialists in high-demand areas.
- Growing job market: The state projects steady 1.5-2% annual growth in psychology positions through 2031, driven by increased mental health awareness, expanded insurance coverage, and aging population needs.
Ready to Start Your Psychology Career in Washington?
The path to becoming a licensed psychologist in Washington requires dedication, but the career rewards make the journey worthwhile. Whether you're drawn to clinical practice, school psychology, research, or specialized areas, Washington offers diverse opportunities to make a meaningful difference in people's lives.
Ready to Start Your Psychology Career?
Explore accredited psychology programs to find the educational pathway that matches your career goals and start your journey toward psychology licensure in Washington today.
Additional Psychology Resources for Washington:
- Washington Counselor Licensing
- Washington Social Work Licensing
- Washington Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore Additional Psychologist Careers
- Psychology Licensing Requirements by State
- WA Psychology Degrees and School Programs
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, Psychologists-All Other; Psychiatric Techs; Psychiatrists; Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health and Mental Health Counselors; Marriage & Family Therapists; and Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
