LicenseCompass

Chemical Dependency Professional License in Washington

Quick Answer

To become a Chemical Dependency Professional in Washington, you need an associate's degree (or 60+ semester credits), 2,500 hours of supervised experience (less with higher degrees), and must pass the NAADAC Level I exam.

Exam
NAADAC Level I examination
Timeline
3-5 years (associate's degree + 2,500 hours supervised experience)
Background Check
Required

Requirements

Chemical Dependency Professional license in Washington

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Licensing Agency

Department of Health

Chemical Dependency Professional Salary in Washington

Entry Level

$45,450

Median

$64,220

Experienced

$100,210

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Chemical Dependency Professional in Washington.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NAADAC Level I examination

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 3-5 years (associate's degree + 2,500 hours supervised experience).

Chemical Dependency Professional Licensing in Washington: What to Know

Licensed as 'Chemical Dependency Professional.' Requires associate's degree in human services or related field (or 90 quarter/60 semester credits with 45/30 in chemical dependency). Supervised work experience varies by education: 2,500 hours with associate's/BA, 1,500 with master's/doctorate, 1,000 for licensed nurse practitioners/psychologists, 850 for licensed MFTs/MH counselors/social workers. Must pass NAADAC Level I exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Chemical Dependency Professional license in Washington?
The process typically takes 3-5 years (associate's degree + 2,500 hours supervised experience), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Chemical Dependency Professional license in Washington?
You need to pass the NAADAC Level I examination. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Chemical Dependency Professional requirements across states.

View all states →

Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.