Certifications & licenses in District of Columbia
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 27 professional credentials in DC. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about District of Columbia
As of June 2024, all new nursing licenses expire on the licensee's birth month, replacing the previous fixed renewal date system.
DC Board of Nursing
DC offers license reciprocity for journeyman and master electricians from Maryland and Virginia who were licensed by examination as of 2023.
Board of Industrial Trades
Master Esthetician license applicants can have the exam requirement waived with a current certification from the National Coalition of Estheticians Association (NCEA).
Board of Barber and Cosmetology
In 2023, the District of Columbia ranked #1 in the U.S. for its 94.4% NREMT certification pass rate for EMT students.
DC Department of Health
A $60,000 salary in DC has the approximate purchasing power of a $43,228 salary in an average-cost U.S. state.
| State | Median annual wage | vs DC |
|---|---|---|
| DC | $47,860 | — |
| MD | $38,620 | −19.3% vs DC |
| VA | $37,550 | −21.5% vs DC |
| State | Required training hours | vs DC |
|---|---|---|
| DC | 500 hours | — |
| MD | 750 hours | +250 hours |
| VA | 500 hours | no difference (bill to increase to 625 hours introduced in Jan 2025) |
Sources (1)
Healthcare in District of Columbia
13 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $46,860 |
| Dental Assistant | Required | $56,500 |
| EMT | Required | $45,920 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $70,420 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $49,740 |
| Medical Coder | No | $64,690 |
| Paramedic | Required | $45,920 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $45,670 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $47,110 |
| Radiology Technologist | No | $99,080 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $104,240 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $65,450 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $127,900 |
Trades in District of Columbia
8 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $63,610 |
| Electrician | Required | $81,950 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $83,390 |
| Plumber | Required | $81,950 |
| Welder | Required | $58,700 |
| Barber | Required | $102,360 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $48,060 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $62,220 |
Professional in District of Columbia
6 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $103,030 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $99,300 |
| Personal Trainer | No | $45,340 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $75,180 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $43,720 |