Travel Nursing Jobs in Washington D.C.

The median salary for Registered Nurses in the state of District of Columbia was $89,440 per year or $43 per hour in 2020 with most earning an annual salary between $72,900 and $105,180 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level jobs in the District of Columbia or those with the lowest 10% salary earned around $61,410, while the highest 10% earned more than $123,540. District of Columbia ranks 8 in median annual salary for Registered Nurses, though when adjusted to the relative cost of living, District of Columbia ranks at 50.

Typically, travel nursing jobs will provide higher hourly and weekly pay than permanent positions in the same specialty, facility, and location. The estimated weekly gross pay listed for travel Registered Nurses is based on the specified hours per week listed on job cards and includes available stipend amounts.

Washington D.C. is not a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, the multi-state agreement sponsored by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). The Compact allows nurses to have one compact state nursing license and practice in other participating states without having to obtain additional licenses.

At present, Washington D.C. is not part of this agreement, meaning that nurses who wish to work in Washington D.C. must obtain a license from the District's Board of Nursing. Nurses are licensed by examination or endorsement and must meet all requirements set forth by the Board before they can practice in Washington D.C.

Education & Licensure

Becoming a travel nurse in Washington DC requires several steps. First, you must submit an online application and pay the fee. Along with your application, you will need to provide a copy of a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport, proof of name change if the name on your application is different from the name on any of your supporting documents, and a background checks with fingerprints. Once you have made payment for your application, you will be sent an email with a code and link to schedule your fingerprinting appointment.

You will then need to request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and the state where you are currently employed. If these states do not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the Washington DC BON via email, to the DC Board of Nursing at verifications.bon@dc.gov.

In addition to meeting these requirements, most travel agencies and hospitals require nurses to have a minimum of two years of nursing experience prior to applying for travel nursing contracts. Ideally, nurses should also have their Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) or Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) and pass the NCLEX-RN examination in order to become certified as Registered Nurse (RN).

Licensure Resources

• Board Address https://dchealth.dc.gov/bon

• Application https://doh.force.com/dchealthrenewals/s/portal-page (must create an account to apply)

• How Long Does It Take to Get a License? 2 weeks

• License Fee $280

• Compact State? No

• NURSYS State? Yes

• Walkthrough State? No

Washington D.C. is a vibrant city with plenty of culture and activities to keep you busy. You can explore the Smithsonian museums, wander around iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, or catch a performance at one of the city's many theaters. Sample delicious foods from around the world or enjoy a night out on the town- there's something for everyone in D.C!

In spring and summer, take a leisurely stroll around Georgetown and the National Mall or try your hand at paddle-boating on the Potomac River. Go kayaking on the Anacostia River or just relax on one of the city's many beaches. And don't forget to check out Rock Creek Park and all its natural wonders, including hiking trails and geocaching sites.

In autumn, marvel at the changing leaves, pick up some pumpkins from U-pick farms around town, or head over to Adams Morgan for a unique take on Oktoberfest celebrations. And when winter arrives, ice skate beneath National Harbor's twinkling lights, sip hot cocoa while watching iconic Christmas plays in downtown theaters, or go sledding down hills in parkland throughout D.C.. No matter what time of year it is, Washington D.C has something for everyone to enjoy!

Many travel nurses find work through recruitment agencies and marketplaces, which means they have better access to job boards to choose their schedule, location, and salary. When you begin browsing for a travel assignment, be sure to consider the housing options, the benefits, the guaranteed hour policy, and the recruiting company’s overall reputation.

The good news is that Fusion Marketplace has everything you need when it comes to finding the perfect Washington DC travel nursing job. We offer access to travel assignments in the best healthcare facilities across the country. Whether you are looking for med surg, operating room, or other patient care positions, our partners are constantly posting new jobs so you can find your next great opportunity. Here, you have the freedom to compare full benefits, packages, and staffing agencies—all in one place. So find your next job today.