Washington Board of Nursing announces transition from ARNP to APRN June 30, 2027

The Washington State Board of Nursing (WABON) is informing healthcare professionals, employers, educators, partner organizations, and the public that the credential title Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) will officially change to Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) effective June 30, 2027.

The title change was established through House Bill 2416 (2024) and aligns Washington with the nationally recognized title for advanced practice registered nurses. The change supports greater consistency across states while maintaining title protection under Washington law.

The change is to the professional title only. It does not change the education, certification, licensure requirements, scope of practice, or authority of advanced practice nurses in Washington.

Individual licensees should continue using the title ARNP until the change becomes effective on June 30, 2027.

The WABON website will serve as the primary source for updates, guidance, and resources throughout the transition. Additional information will also be shared through GovDelivery and our social media channels: Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Read the press release

For more information about the ARNP to APRN transition, visit the WABON website or email nursing@doh.wa.gov