RN License Requirements by State

Bank check out the RN license requirements by state. Notice out what it takes to enter this promising profession where you live.

portrait of Doug Wintemute

by Doug Wintemute

Published on November 5, 2021 · Updated on Apr 22, 2022

Reviewed past Shrilekha Deshaies, MSN, CCRN, RN

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The nursing field features various rules and regulations to assistance ensure all registered nurses (RNs) have the appropriate educational and professional requirements to properly care for patients and serve the healthcare system. To manage this, each country has its ain mandatory RN licensure process.

While each state has its ain requirements, licensed professionals typically need an approved or accredited education and a passing grade on the NCLEX-RN exam.

Here, we outline the specific RN license and RN pedagogy requirements for each state and Washington, D.C.

Why Do You Need an RN License?

At that place are many reasons to become a nurse, including the promising career outlook and potential financial rewards, according to the Agency of Labor Statistics (BLS). There are also many ways to become a registered nurse and various nursing credentials available.

To help regulate the field and ensure all nurses run into the necessary professional standards, all states require RNs to hold licenses.

Amid the RN requirements for licensure, candidates may demand to complete an approved or accredited nursing degree or diploma program, forth with the NCLEX-RN exam.

Some states take programs recognized by local nursing boards. Others require national recognition from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Didactics in Nursing (ACEN).

Types of Nursing Licensure

RNs conduct patient assessments and observations, work on a team of healthcare professionals, and may pursue practice specialties. They may administer medication, provide patients with handling instructions and plans, and clarify various examination results. RNs need to complete at to the lowest degree a diploma in nursing or an acquaintance degree in nursing (ADN) and NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. LPNs support RNs, providing basic nursing care to patients. They often take patients' vital signs, insert catheters, dress wounds and change bandages, and collect samples for lab tests. LPNs besides monitor patients, continue records of progress, and, in some states, administer certain medications. LPNs typically need to complete an accredited diploma or certificate and the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure. APRNs provide avant-garde care to patients, perform and analyze examinations and tests, diagnose patients, and develop handling plans. These professionals may work independently and in specialty fields. APRNs typically need a master's caste, an RN license, and a passing course on the national certification examination for licensure.

What Are Nursing Meaty States?

Adult by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) allows registered nurses to motion between participating states with a single RN license. At least 34 states accept joined the NLC, forth with iv more that have pending legislation.

Licensed nurses from a meaty land tin can do in other member states more easily. RNs from non-meaty states may demand to apply for state endorsement to move their license to another location without having to obtain another single-state license.

RN License Requirements by State

Alabama RN Licensure

RNs in Alabama need to complete a nursing diploma or ADN at minimum, and the plan requires national accreditation from the CCNE or ACEN. As a compact state, Alabama offers unmarried-country and multistate RN licenses through the Alabama Board of Nursing. RN license applicants need to submit fingerprints and pass the NCLEX-RN test to qualify.

Education and Test

The RN educational activity requirements include a board-approved and nationally accredited plan. The training must include straight patient-intendance clinical feel, simulations, and laboratory work, though simulations can only make up less than 30% of the clinical experience. The NCLEX-RN exams cost $200, plus a single state application fee of $100 or $200 for the multistate awarding.

License Renewal

Alabama nurses need to renew their licenses every other yr. To practise this, they need to complete 24 contact hours of continuing education. They as well need to pay the renewal fee of $100 for unmarried-state licenses and $203.l for multistate licenses.

Alaska RN Licensure

Alaska RNs need to complete an accredited nursing diploma or ADN at minimum. The land's licensing runs through the Alaska Board of Nursing. RN license applicants demand to laissez passer the NCLEX-RN examination and may demand to submit fingerprints besides.

Education and Test

RN education requirements include a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing diploma or caste. The NCLEX-RN exams cost $200. Applicants also pay a $200 licensing fee, along with a $100 fee for a temporary permit in some cases.

License Renewal

Alaska nurses must renew their licenses every odd-numbered year before the December deadline. They can practice this by completing at least two of the following: thirty contact hours of continuing teaching, 60 hours of unpaid professional work, or 320 working hours in the previous ii years.

Arkansas RN Licensure

In Arkansas, RNs demand to complete a board-approved nursing diploma or ADN at minimum. Candidates also must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a make clean criminal background cheque forth with their application to the Arkansas State Lath of Nursing. Arkansas participates in the NLC and may take out-of-state nurses.

Education and Test

RN didactics requirements in Arkansas include a board-approved nursing diploma or acquaintance degree. In addition to the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, the initial licensure fees beginning at $100.

License Renewal

Arkansas RN licenses demand to be renewed every two years. Candidates must complete at least 15 contact hours of accredited exercise-focused activities, hold a current nationally recognized certification/recertification, or complete a nursing academic course to authorize. License renewals toll $100.

Arizona RN Licensure

Arizona's RN licenses come from the Arizona State Board of Nursing and require the completion of a state-approved and nationally accredited nursing diploma or degree. Applicants as well demand to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit fingerprints. The country is a member of the NLC.

Education and Examination

Arizona's RN education requirements include a lath-approved and nationally accredited nursing degree or diploma. Training and clinical components must comprehend patient-centered care, teamwork, evidence-based practice, and safe, along with information science and quality comeback. The NCLEX-RN exams toll $200, plus a $100 licensing fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses require renewal every four years in Arizona. To qualify, nurses need to complete 960 hours of professional work in the previous five years, consummate a board-approved program or refresher course in the previous five years, or obtain an avant-garde nursing degree in the last five years. The renewal fee is $160.

California RN Licensure

RN candidates in California demand to complete a state-approved nursing diploma or degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. They so must transport their applications to the California Board of Registered Nursing with fingerprints and a background cheque. California has a awaiting NLC membership, merely out-of-country candidates can use for reciprocity.

Education and Test

RN education requirements include a board-approved diploma or caste with no less than 58 semester units, at least three weekly hours of clinical practise, and at least 75% of the clinical component focused on direct patient care. In addition to the $200 NCLEX-RN fee, candidates can pay a $300 awarding fee.

License Renewal

Nurses need to renew their RN licenses every two years in California. They can do this past completing at to the lowest degree 30 hours of standing education. Renewals cost $190.

Colorado RN Licensure

For an RN license in Colorado, candidates need to complete a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing diploma or degree program. They also need to pass the NCLEX-RN examination and submit fingerprints and a background check to the Colorado Lath of Nursing. Colorado participates in the NLC and may accept out-of-state licenses.

Didactics and Examination

Colorado's RN instruction requirements include an approved and accredited nursing diploma or degree. The grooming must include a minimum of 400 clinical hours and 300 classroom hours. The NCLEX-RN test costs $200, and applicants need to pay an $88 application fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses need to be renewed every 2 years in Colorado for a fee of $108. Nurses who let their license expire may have to pay an additional fee.

Connecticut RN Licensure

Connecticut requires its RNs to complete a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing caste or diploma program, along with the NCLEX-RN examination. RN licenses come up from the Connecticut Section of Public Health. Since the state has no NLC agreement, out-of-land nurses need to apply for licensure via endorsement.

Didactics and Examination

To satisfy the RN education requirements, prospective nurses need to complete the equivalent of four xv-week semesters and 35 credits in nursing at minimum. At least 50% of the contact hours must include direct patient care. The NCLEX-RN examinations cost $200. The initial awarding costs $180.

License Renewal

RN licenses expire every year in Connecticut. While there are no mandatory standing pedagogy requirements at this level, nurses need to pay a $110 fee for renewal.

Delaware RN Licensure

Delaware'south RN licenses require aspiring nurses to complete a diploma or degree programme with national accreditation and approving from the state'south Board of Nursing. RN requirements too include passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Equally a participating member of the NLC, Delaware nursing licenses can movement betwixt other member states.

Education and Exam

RN education requirements include a diploma or acquaintance degree at minimum. The programs must include a minimum of 400 clinical hours. NCLEX-RN test-takers must pay the $200 exam fee, forth with the $170 awarding fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses demand to exist renewed every odd-numbered year in Delaware. Nurses demand to consummate 30 hours of continuing didactics at minimum to qualify. They besides need to pay a renewal fee.

Florida RN Licensure

For an RN license with the Florida Board of Nursing, candidates need a degree or diploma with board-approval and national accreditation, along with a passing grade on the NCLEX-RN exam. RNs also need to submit fingerprints and a make clean background bank check. Florida is a member of the NLC, then nursing licenses can motility between participating states.

Education and Examination

The RN education requirements include an accredited nursing diploma or ADN at minimum. In add-on to the $200 NCLEX-RN examination fee, nurse candidates demand to pay a $110 application fee.

License Renewal

To renew their licenses every other year, RNs demand to consummate at least 27 standing education hours. The training must include ii hours each in prevention of medical errors, Florida police force, recognizing impairment, man trafficking, and domestic violence, along with 1 hour of HIV/AIDS training. Renewals price $75.

Georgia RN Licensure

The registered nurse requirements in Georgia include a nationally accredited and lath-canonical nursing degree or diploma. The Georgia Board of Nursing also requires RNs to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a clean background cheque. Georgia participates in the NLC.

Education and Examination

Georgia'south RN instruction requirements include an accredited associate degree or diploma at minimum. Candidates need to pay a $200 fee for the NCLEX-RN examination and an application fee of $forty.

License Renewal

RN licenses demand to be renewed every other year before the February deadline in Georgia. Nurses need to complete at least 30 continuing didactics hours in that time or at to the lowest degree 500 hours of supervised practise. License renewals cost $65.

Hawaii RN Licensure

Hawaii's Board of Nursing requires RN candidates to have a lath-approved and nationally accredited nursing degree or diploma. They also require a clean criminal background bank check and a passing form on the NCLEX-RN exam. Hawaii does non participate in the NLC, so reciprocity or endorsement may exist required for out-of-state licenses.

Didactics and Test

RN education requirements include an accredited nursing diploma or acquaintance degree at minimum. Candidates need to pay the NCLEX-RN exam fee of $200, plus the $40 application fee. Exam-takers who practise not laissez passer may need to complete remedial courses with at to the lowest degree 60 hours of clinical instruction and 60 hours of classroom instruction.

License Renewal

Hawaii RN licenses need to be renewed every odd-numbered year before the July borderline. The process requires the completion of at least 30 continuing pedagogy hours. RNs also demand to pay a renewal fee of $176.

Idaho RN Licensure

For an RN license in Idaho, candidates need to possess a nursing caste or diploma approved by the Idaho Board of Nursing. They need to submit fingerprints and a clean background bank check and also pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Idaho participates in the NLC.

Pedagogy and Examination

Idaho's RN didactics requirements include a lath-approved nursing diploma or associate degree at minimum. In addition to the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, applicants need to pay a $90 application fee. (Some application fees were waived due to the pandemic after an gild from the governor.)

License Renewal

Idaho RNs demand to renew their licenses every odd-numbered year before the September borderline, while likewise fulfilling continued competence requirements during that time. They also pay a renewal fee of $90.

Illinois RN Licensure

For an RN license in Illinois, candidates need a nationally accredited and lath-approved nursing diploma or degree. They also demand to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit fingerprints to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional person Regulation. The state currently has a awaiting NLC membership.

Education and Examination

The minimum RN educational activity requirements in Illinois include an accredited nursing diploma or associate degree. The NCLEX-RN test carries a $200 fee. The license application fee is $91.

License Renewal

RN licenses demand to exist renewed every even-numbered year in this country. This can be done by completing at least 20 hours of approved continuing education and paying the $80 renewal fee.

Indiana RN Licensure

For an RN license with the Indiana State Board of Nursing, candidates need a board-canonical nursing degree or diploma, a passing course on the NCLEX-RN test, and a make clean background bank check. Indiana participates in the NLC and accepts out-of-state licenses from other member states.

Education and Test

The RN education requirements include a lath-canonical associate caste, bachelor'southward caste, or diploma in nursing. Nursing applicants need to pay $200 for the NCLEX-RN examination, plus the $50 application fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses need to be renewed in odd-numbered years earlier the Nov borderline. While nurses do not demand to complete a mandatory number of continuing instruction hours, they should keep their skills up to date. They also demand to pay a renewal fee of $50.

Iowa RN Licensure

For an RN license from the Iowa Board of Nursing, candidates need to have a board-approved nursing degree or diploma. They also need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit fingerprints and a criminal background check. Iowa participates in the NLC.

Education and Examination

Iowa's RN education requirements include a valid nursing diploma or acquaintance degree at minimum. The NCLEX-RN test costs $200 to take, plus the $93 initial application fee.

License Renewal

Nurses demand to renew their RN licenses every three years in Iowa. To do this, they need to complete a minimum of 36 hours of continuing teaching and pay the $99 renewal fee at least xxx days prior to expiration.

Kansas RN Licensure

An RN license in Kansas requires a nursing degree or diploma that has the approval of the Kansas Board of Nursing. Applicants need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit fingerprints and a background check. Kansas is a participating member of the NLC.

Education and Examination

To satisfy the RN educational activity requirements, nurse candidates need to complete a board-approved diploma or associate degree in nursing at minimum. The programs must feature at least xxx credits of nursing training, including behavioral sciences, growth and development, and direct clinical training across the lifespan. The NCLEX-RN exam costs $200, and the application costs $100 for single-state licensure and $125 for multistate licensure.

License Renewal

RN licenses need to be renewed every other twelvemonth. To qualify for renewal, nurses need to complete at least 30 hours of standing education and pay the $85 fee.

Kentucky RN Licensure

The RN requirements for a license with the Kentucky Lath of Nursing include a board-canonical nursing degree or diploma. RN license candidates also need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and jurisprudence exam. They must submit fingerprints and a clean background bank check. Kansas participates in the NLC.

Didactics and Examination

To meet the RN education requirements, aspiring nurses demand to earn an approved nursing diploma or caste. In addition to the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, candidates need to pay a $125 application fee.

License Renewal

RNs need to renew their licenses every year in Kentucky. They can exercise this by completing at least 14 hours of standing education, earning a national certification, publishing a nursing newspaper, conducting nursing enquiry, or making a continuing pedagogy presentation. Renewals cost $65.

Louisiana RN Licensure

To qualify for an RN license with the Louisiana Country Lath of Nursing, prospective nurses demand to consummate a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing diploma or ADN. They also need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam within four years of graduation and submit a clean background check. Louisiana participates in the NLC and accepts out-of-state licenses.

Education and Test

RN teaching requirements include at to the lowest degree a board-canonical and accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing. In addition to the $200 NCLEX-RN examination cost, applicants demand to pay $100 for the application and $39.25 for the background check.

License Renewal

RNs need to renew their licenses every other year in Louisiana. They need to complete 900 hours of nursing experience or at to the lowest degree 30 contact hours of continuing education for eligibility. They too need to pay the $100 renewal fee.

Maine RN Licensure

For an RN license in Maine, candidates need a degree or diploma in nursing from a board-approved and nationally accredited program. The state Lath of Nursing requires candidates to submit a criminal background check and pass the NCLEX-RN exam also. Maine participates in the NLC.

Education and Examination

RN education requirements in Maine include a nursing diploma or caste of no less than ii years in length. The NCLEX-RN exams price $200. The application fee is $75.

License Renewal

Maine's RN requirements include license renewal every other twelvemonth near the nurse's birthday. To qualify, nurses need to pay a $75 renewal fee.

Maryland RN Licensure

The Maryland Board of Nursing requires RN license applicants to have a board-approved nursing diploma or caste. They besides need to laissez passer the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a clean background cheque to qualify. Maryland participates in the NLC and accepts out-of-state nursing licenses.

Education and Test

RN education requirements include an canonical nursing diploma or acquaintance degree at minimum. Along with the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, candidates demand to pay a $100 application fee.

License Renewal

Nurses need to renew their RN licenses every other year. They can do this past paying the $136 renewal fee and submitting a new background check. They do not demand to complete any mandatory standing instruction.

Massachusetts RN Licensure

For an RN license in Massachusetts, applicants need to possess a nursing degree or diploma canonical by the state'southward Board of Registration in Nursing. They also need to laissez passer the NCLEX-RN exam and demonstrate practiced moral character. The country has awaiting participation in the NLC.

Education and Test

In Massachusetts, RN didactics requirements include a board-canonical diploma or acquaintance degree in nursing at minimum. In add-on to the $200 NCLEX-RN test fee, candidates need to pay a $230 application fee.

License Renewal

The state requires RN license renewals every two years on the nurse's altogether. Renewals cost $120 and require the completion of 15 contact hours of continuing education.

Michigan RN Licensure

In Michigan, RN licenses require a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing degree or diploma. Prospective nurses too need to laissez passer the NCLEX-RN exam, submit a make clean background check, and demonstrate practiced moral character to the Michigan Lath of Nursing. Michigan has a pending membership with the NLC.

Didactics and Examination

RN education requirements include an acquaintance caste or diploma in nursing at minimum. Applicants likewise must accept training to recognize victims of human being trafficking. Along with the $200 NCLEX-RN exam cost, applicants need to pay a licensing application fee of $208.eighty.

License Renewal

The state's RN requirements include a license renewal every two years. To qualify, nurses must consummate at least 25 hours of continuing education, including two hours of pain and symptom management. Renewals cost $128.fifty.

Minnesota RN Licensure

Candidates applying for an RN license in Minnesota need a degree or diploma in nursing that received board approval and national accreditation. The Minnesota Board of Nursing also requires applicants to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a clean background cheque. Minnesota does non participate in the NLC.

Education and Exam

The RN pedagogy requirements include an approved and accredited acquaintance degree in nursing or a diploma. In addition to the NCLEX-RN exam cost of $200, applicants pay a $105 application fee and $33.25 fee for the background cheque.

License Renewal

RN licenses expire every two years in Minnesota. To renew their RN license, nurses need to complete at least 24 hours of continuing teaching and pay the $85 renewal fee.

Mississippi RN Licensure

To qualify for an RN license with the Mississippi Board of Nursing, candidates need a nationally accredited and lath-approved degree or diploma in nursing. They besides need to laissez passer the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a make clean groundwork bank check. Mississippi participates in the NLC.

Instruction and Examination

Mississippi's RN education requirements include an canonical associate degree in nursing or a diploma. Applicants demand to pay the NCLEX-RN exam fee of $200, the criminal background check fee of $75, and the awarding fee of $100.

License Renewal

RN license renewals take place every even-numbered year from September through December. If nurses have not practiced in the last five years, they may need to complete an approved reorientation/refresher RN programme or twenty contact hours of grooming. Renewals toll $100.

Missouri RN Licensure

The Missouri Board of Nursing requires RN license candidates to possess a board-approved nursing degree or diploma. They also need to complete the NCLEX-RN exam and a criminal groundwork cheque. Missouri participates in the NLC.

Education and Test

RN teaching requirements include an approved associate degree in nursing or a diploma at minimum. They besides have to pay the NCLEX-RN examination fee of $200, the background check fee of $41.75, and the application fee of $55.

License Renewal

RNs in Missouri need to renew their licenses every odd-numbered year past Apr 30. While nurses do not need to complete continuing education credits, they practise demand to pay the license renewal fee.

Montana RN Licensure

The Montana Board of Nursing provides RN licenses to candidates with a board-approved diploma or degree in nursing. Nurse candidates too need to laissez passer the NCLEX-RN test and submit to fingerprint and background checks. Montana is a participating fellow member of the NLC.

Education and Examination

The RN education requirements include an associate caste in nursing or a diploma in nursing at minimum. In addition to the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, nurse applicants typically pay a $100 application fee.

License Renewal

Nurses demand to renew their licenses every other year by Dec. 31. They also pay the renewal fee of $100. Typically, nurses demand to complete 24 contact hours of continuing education, only these requirements were waived through 2021.

Nebraska RN Licensure

In Nebraska, RN licenses come up from the Nebraska Section of Health and Human Services. RN requirements include a high school diploma or its equivalent, an approved nursing degree or diploma, skillful moral character, and a passing grade on the NCLEX-RN exam. Nebraska participates in the NLC.

Education and Examination

The RN education requirements include a 2- to 4-year nursing program. Candidates need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, plus the $123 application fee and the $45.25 groundwork check fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses expire on Oct. 31 every even-numbered twelvemonth. Among the requirements to renew their license, nurses need to consummate 20 hours of standing didactics, plus 500 hours of practice over the previous v years. There is too a renewal fee of $123.

Nevada RN Licensure

According to the Nevada Country Board of Nursing, an RN license requires a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing degree or diploma. Candidates also need to pass the NCLEX-RN examination and submit fingerprints. Nevada does non participate in the NLC.

Pedagogy and Examination

RN education requirements include an accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing at minimum. Along with the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, applicants must pay a $100 awarding fee.

License Renewal

RNs demand to renew their licenses every two years in Nevada. They need to complete at to the lowest degree thirty hours of continuing education during that time, including a erstwhile bioterrorism course for new nurses. RN license renewals price $100 to process.

New Hampshire RN Licensure

For an RN license in New Hampshire, candidates must have a board-approved and nationally accredited degree or diploma in nursing. The New Hampshire Lath of Nursing also requires that candidates laissez passer the NCLEX-RN test and submit to fingerprint and background checks. New Hampshire participates in the NLC.

Didactics and Examination

RN education requirements include an accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing. The preparation must include at least i,080 hours of classroom instruction involving patients with various disruptions, 600 hours of instruction involving patients in stable situations, and adequate clinical experiences. The NCLEX-RN exam fee is $200, and the application fee is $120.

License Renewal

RN licenses demand to be renewed on the nurse's second birthday after licensure. They must pay the $80 renewal fee and consummate at least 400 hours of agile practise in the previous four years for eligibility.

New Jersey RN Licensure

For an RN license with the New Jersey Board of Nursing, candidates need a board-approved nursing degree or diploma. They also need to complete the NCLEX-RN test and submit a clean criminal groundwork check. New Jersey has a partial understanding in place with the NLC.

Education and Examination

The RN education requirements include a minimum of an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Candidates need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN examination fee, plus an $80 application fee and $120 licensing fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses expire every other year on May 31. To renew their license, nurses need to consummate at least 30 contact hours of continuing education and pay the $120 renewal fee.

New Mexico RN Licensure

For an RN license with the New Mexico Board of Nursing, candidates need to complete a nationally accredited and board-canonical nursing degree or diploma. Aspiring nurses also demand to complete the NCLEX-RN test and submit fingerprint cards for groundwork checks. New Mexico participates in the NLC.

Education and Test

RN education requirements include an accredited nursing acquaintance degree or diploma at minimum. Fees for licensing include the NCLEX-RN exam at $200, the application fee of $150, and the background check at $44.

License Renewal

New Mexico nursing licenses expire every ii years. For the RN license renewal, nurses need to complete at least thirty hours of standing education and pay the $110 renewal fee.

New York RN Licensure

The New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions handles RN licenses and requires candidates to possess a lath-approved caste or diploma in nursing. These candidates also need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and demonstrate good moral character. New York does non participate in the NLC.

Instruction and Exam

In addition to the lath-approved associate degree or diploma in nursing, RN candidates need to complete courses in infection command and kid abuse reporting. Candidates as well need to pay $200 for the NCLEX-RN test, plus $143 for the licensing fee and $35 for a limited permit if needed.

License Renewal

New York's RN licenses expire every iii years. To qualify for renewal, nurses demand to pay the $73 license renewal fee. Inside x years of initial licensure, RNs may demand to complete a bachelor's degree in nursing to maintain their credentials.

Due north Carolina RN Licensure

According to the Due north Carolina Lath of Nursing, RN licenses require a board-approved nursing degree or diploma. Prospective nurses also need to pass the NCLEX-RN examination and submit a make clean criminal background check. N Carolina is an NLC fellow member state.

Education and Test

In addition to the canonical nursing associate degree or diploma, RN education requirements include training in assessment, care activeness planning and implementation, evaluation, reporting, and team collaboration, forth with didactics and administering and managing effective care strategies. Candidates need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN test fee, plus the $75 application fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses elapse on the nurse'south altogether every two years in Northward Carolina. Nurses can qualify for renewal in diverse ways, including completing 15 contact hours of continuing education and 640 hours of practice or 30 hours of continuing education. There is a $100 renewal fee.

North Dakota RN Licensure

The RN requirements in North Dakota include a nursing caste or diploma approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing. Candidates also need to consummate the NCLEX-RN exam and submit fingerprints and a clean criminal background check. North Dakota participates in the NLC.

Pedagogy and Test

RN educational activity requirements include an approved associate caste or diploma in nursing at minimum. The fees required include a $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee, a $145 application fee, and a $41.25 criminal groundwork check fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses elapse every two years in Northward Dakota. To renew them, nurses need to consummate at least 400 hours of nursing practice in the four previous years, along with 12 hours of continuing education in the previous two years. They likewise pay the renewal price of $140.

Ohio RN Licensure

Nurses in Ohio can pursue an RN license through the Ohio Board of Nursing with a lath-approved nursing degree or diploma. Candidates also demand to pass the NCLEX-RN test and submit a clean criminal background check. Ohio's NLC membership is awaiting implementation.

Education and Test

RN didactics requirements in Ohio include an approved acquaintance degree or diploma in nursing. Prospective nurses also need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee and a $75 awarding fee.

License Renewal

Nurses need to renew their RN licenses every 2 years. Later on the outset renewal period, RNs need to complete 24 continuing education credits every two years. They also need to pay the renewal fee of $65, plus any belatedly fees if necessary.

Oklahoma RN Licensure

For an RN license in Oklahoma, candidates demand a board-canonical degree or diploma in nursing. They also need to submit fingerprints and a clean criminal background cheque to the Oklahoma Lath of Nursing. Candidates also must pass the NCLEX-RN test. Oklahoma participates in the NLC.

Didactics and Examination

RN education requirements in Oklahoma include an ADN or diploma in nursing that has been lath approved. The curriculum must include prove-based learning, legal and upstanding issues, and classroom and clinical experiences that focus on illness prevention and wellness promotion. The fees include the NCLEX-RN exam price of $200 and the license price of $85.

License Renewal

In Oklahoma, nurses need to renew their RN licenses every odd-numbered twelvemonth. They can qualify in various ways, including completing 24 contact hours of continuing education or working 520 hours in the previous two years. They likewise pay a $75 renewal fee.

Oregon RN Licensure

According to the Oregon State Board of Nursing, prospective nurses demand a lath-canonical nursing caste or diploma. Applicants also demand to submit fingerprints for a groundwork check. They need to take the NCLEX-RN examination. Oregon does non participate in the NLC.

Education and Examination

RN education requirements include an approved acquaintance degree in nursing or a diploma at minimum. Candidates likewise need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN examination fee and the $160 license by exam fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses elapse every two years in Oregon. To renew them, RNs need to complete a minimum of seven hours of hurting direction continuing teaching courses. They also demand to pay the $145 renewal fee.

Pennsylvania RN Licensure

In Pennsylvania, prospective nurses demand to complete a nursing caste or diploma canonical by the Land Board of Nursing to authorize for an RN license. They also need to laissez passer the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a clean groundwork check. Pennsylvania is awaiting implementation of its NLC membership.

Pedagogy and Examination

RN education requirements include an approved acquaintance degree or diploma. Candidates also need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN test fee. Initial application and licensing fees start at $95.

License Renewal

In Pennsylvania, RN licenses expire every 2 years. Nurses need to complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing pedagogy to qualify for renewal, including preparation in child abuse recognition. The renewal cost is $122.

Rhode Island RN Licensure

For an RN license in Rhode Island, prospective nurses must complete a nationally accredited and board-canonical nursing degree or diploma. Applicants likewise must laissez passer the NCLEX-RN exam, demonstrate practiced moral character, and submit fingerprints and groundwork checks to the Section of Health. Rhode Island has a awaiting membership in the NLC.

Education and Examination

RN education requirements include an approved and accredited associate caste or diploma in nursing at minimum. Exam-takers pay the NCLEX-RN exam fee of $200. Applicants also need to pay the $135 licensing fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses expire every 2 years. Nurses need to complete a minimum of x hours of standing pedagogy to renew them, including at least two hours in substance corruption training. Nurses likewise need to complete a ane-time class on Alzheimer's disease and pay the renewal fee of $135.

Southward Carolina RN Licensure

The RN requirements in South Carolina include a lath-approved nursing degree or diploma, a passing form on the NCLEX-RN exam, and a background cheque, as per the Southward Carolina Board of Nursing. South Carolina participates in the NLC.

Didactics and Examination

RN education requirements include a minimum of an ADN or a diploma in nursing. Candidates need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN examination fee. Initial RN licensing fees start at $90.

License Renewal

S Carolina nurses need to renew their RN licenses every ii years. They can practise this past satisfying 1 of the requirements, including completing xxx contact hours of standing education. Nurses also need to pay the $75 renewal fee.

Due south Dakota RN Licensure

For an RN license in Due south Dakota, prospective nurses need to complete a board-approved degree or diploma in nursing, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and submit a make clean criminal background bank check to the S Dakota Board of Nursing. South Dakota participates in the NLC.

Education and Exam

RN education requirements include an approved associate caste in nursing or a diploma at minimum. Candidates demand to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN examination fee and the $100 application fee.

License Renewal

South Dakota nurses demand to renew their RN licenses every 2 years. They also need to complete 140 hours of professional do within a 12-month catamenia or 480 hours inside half-dozen years. The renewal fee is $115.

Tennessee RN Licensure

In Tennessee, prospective nurses need a board-approved nursing degree or diploma for an RN license. They too need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a clean background check to the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Tennessee participates in the NLC.

Education and Exam

RN education requirements include an approved diploma in nursing or an ADN. Candidates need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee. Licensing fees brainstorm at $100. (Some licensure fees were eliminated every bit of Aug. 5, 2019, according to the Tennessee Board of Nursing website.)

License Renewal

RN licenses need to be renewed every ii years on the nurse's birthday. Nurses can satisfy the renewal requirements in several ways, including completing x contact hours of continuing education in a 2-year period. They also demand to pay the $100 renewal fee.

Texas RN Licensure

For an RN license in Texas, candidates need to consummate a board-canonical caste or diploma in nursing. They should also submit fingerprints and a clean criminal background check to the Texas Board of Nursing. Texas participates in the NLC and accepts out-of-state licenses.

Educational activity and Examination

RN education requirements include an approved associate caste or diploma in nursing. The programme must include teachings in safe patient care in surgical, pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health nursing, forth with content and clinical experiences with community, leadership, and enquiry. Fees include the $200 NCLEX-RN test. License fees begin at $100.

License Renewal

In Texas, RN licenses expire on the concluding twenty-four hour period of the nurse's nascence month every other twelvemonth. To renew the license, nurses need to complete at to the lowest degree 20 contact hours of standing education during that two-yr catamenia. The license renewals toll $68.

Utah RN Licensure

For an RN license in Utah, prospective nurses need a lath-approved and nationally accredited degree or diploma in nursing. Candidates as well need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit fingerprints and a background check to the Sectionalisation of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Utah is a participating fellow member of the NLC.

Education and Examination

RN didactics requirements include at least an accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing. Fees include $200 for the NCLEX-RN test and $60 for awarding.

License Renewal

Utah nurses need to renew their RN licenses every ii years. They tin qualify for renewal past completing either 400 hours of professional practise, 30 hours of continuing teaching, or 200 hours of do and xv hours of continuing education. RN license renewals cost $68.

Vermont RN Licensure

For an RN license in Vermont, prospective nurses demand to complete a nationally accredited and board-canonical nursing degree or diploma. Candidates also may need to submit criminal background checks to the Office of Professional Regulation. Vermont has a pending membership with the NLC.

Education and Examination

RN education requirements include an accredited nursing degree or diploma with pharmacology and nutrition content, forth with at least 400 clinical hours. Candidates have to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee. Initial RN awarding fees kickoff at $75.

License Renewal

Every two years, nurses in Vermont must renew their RN licenses. For eligibility, they need to complete 400 hours of professional practice within the two-year period or 960 over the previous 5 years. The renewal fee is $190.

Virginia RN Licensure

To obtain an RN license in Virginia, candidates demand a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing diploma or degree. They also demand to pass the NCLEX-RN examination and submit a clean groundwork to the Virginia Lath of Nursing. Virginia participates in the NLC and welcomes out-of-state nurses.

Pedagogy and Examination

RN education requirements include an accredited nursing associate degree or diploma. The programs should incorporate at least 500 hours of direct client care. Candidates demand to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee and the $190 application fee.

License Renewal

Every two years, nurses in Virginia need to renew their RN license. This requires them to complete ane of several options, including a specialty certification or 640 hours of nursing practice and 15 contact hours of workshops. The renewal fee is $140.

Washington RN Licensure

For an RN license in Washington, prospective nurses need a nationally accredited and lath-approved degree or diploma in nursing. They also need to submit fingerprints and background checks to the Washington Land Board of Wellness. Washington does non participate in the NLC.

Education and Examination

RN education requirements include an accredited acquaintance degree in nursing or a diploma. Applicants need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN examination fee, plus the $120 application fee for the license.

License Renewal

Washington nurses need to renew their RN licenses every year. They can do so by completing a minimum of eight hours of standing education annually and 96 exercise hours per twelvemonth. The license renewals cost $120.

Washington, D.C., RN Licensure

For an RN license in Washington, D.C., prospective nurses demand to complete a nationally accredited and board-approved nursing degree or diploma. They as well need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a make clean background check to the Board of Nursing. Washington, D.C., does non participate in the NLC.

Didactics and Examination

RN education requirements include an accredited acquaintance degree in nursing or a diploma at minimum. Prospective nurses too need to pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee and the $187 licensing fee.

License Renewal

RN licenses expire on the nurse'due south birthday in even-numbered years. They need to renew their licenses by completing one of several options, including taking 24 contact hours of continuing educational activity, teaching, or publishing peer-reviewed material. The renewal fee is $145.

Westward Virginia RN Licensure

Co-ordinate to the West Virginia RN Board, prospective nurses need a board-canonical nursing caste or diploma for an RN license. They also need to pass the NCLEX-RN examination, submit a background check and fingerprints, and demonstrate expert moral character. W Virginia participates in the NLC and allows licenses to move betwixt fellow member states.

Education and Test

In West Virginia, the RN pedagogy requirements include an approved nursing diploma or associate degree at minimum. Fees include $200 for the NCLEX-RN test and $70 for licensure.

License Renewal

RN licenses elapse every year past October. 31 in W Virginia. Nurses demand to consummate a minimum of 12 hours of continuing instruction to qualify for renewal, including grooming in drug diversion, mental wellness conditions in veterans, and prescribing controlled substances and opioid antagonists. They also need to pay a renewal fee of $67.

Wisconsin RN Licensure

An RN license in Wisconsin requires a board-approved and nationally accredited nursing degree or diploma. Candidates also demand to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a background check to the Board of Nursing. Nurses can qualify for multistate licensure since Wisconsin participates in the NLC.

Education and Examination

Wisconsin's RN education requirements include an canonical ADN or a diploma in nursing. The fees for this process include $200 for the NCLEX-RN exam and $72 for the initial licensure and processing.

License Renewal

RN licenses elapse on Feb. 28 in even-numbered years. Nurses do non demand to complete continuing education to maintain their licensure. The renewal fee is $57.

Wyoming RN Licensure

For an RN license with the Wyoming Board of Nursing, prospective nurses need to complete a board-approved nursing diploma or degree. They too need to pass the NCLEX-RN examination and submit fingerprints and groundwork checks. Wyoming participates in the NLC and may accept out-of-state licenses.

Education and Examination

In Wyoming, RN pedagogy requirements include an approved nursing acquaintance degree or diploma that offers testify-based learning experiences, instruction and clinical experiences that focus on health beyond the lifespan, and clinical experiences that develop direct patient-care skills. Fees include $200 for the NCLEX-RN exam, $130 for licensing, $threescore for the criminal background check, and an optional $25 for multistate license processing.

License Renewal

RN licenses expire December. 31 in every even-numbered year in Wyoming. Nurses need to complete 400 hours of practice, 30 hours of standing education, or 15 hours of continuing instruction and 200 hours of exercise in the 2-yr menstruum to qualify for renewal. They also need to pay the $110 renewal fee.

Frequently Asked Questions About RN License Requirements

true How long does it take to get a registered nurse?

Aspiring nurses can take ane of several pathways to the profession. The shortest route is through an acquaintance degree or diploma in nursing. These programs typically take between 2-three years to complete, though accelerated programs may exist available.

After completing their program, nursing candidates must consummate the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for an RN license. Licenses tin can take several weeks to go into effect.

true What teaching is needed to become a registered nurse?

Near states require an accredited or board-canonical associate degree or diploma in nursing to qualify for the NCLEX-RN examination and RN license. For accreditation and board blessing, these nursing programs must include the appropriate courses, training, and practical components.

Educational requirements tin can vary by state. New York, for instance, requires RNs to consummate at least a bachelor of science in nursing caste inside 10 years of their initial licensure.

Registered nurse requirements typically include standing education, which professionals need to complete regularly to renew their licenses and keep them valid.

true How much does a registered nurse brand?

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for RNs was $75,330, every bit of May 2020. Different industries offered varying wages. For example, government positions paid median annual wages of $84,490. Hospitals paid a median wage of $76,840, and convalescent care services paid $72,340.

With fourth dimension and experience, nurses may be able to move into college earning brackets. The highest 10% of earners in the field made a median bacon of $116,230.

Location too can play a part in terms of RN salaries. California paid the highest almanac hateful wage at $120,560, as of May 2020. Hawaii RNs made a mean bacon of $104,830 per twelvemonth and Massachusetts nurses fabricated $96,250.

truthful Can you practise every bit an RN without a license?

No. In every state, RNs need licensure with their state nursing board to practice. While this always requires an approved pedagogy and completed certification examination, some states besides include other requirements. For example, some states require background checks and health verifications. Employers may take additional educational activity and feel requirements to qualify for employment.

true What state has the easiest road to get a registered nurse?

Every state has its own requirements, but most feature similar steps. Virtually states, for example, accept applicants with a nursing diploma or ADN. Since most states feature similar requirements, the easiest locations may exist the ones that are the fastest to license applicants.

Arizona and Washington, D.C., for instance, typically award licensure within days of submitting an awarding. Some states tin can take weeks to process the paperwork.


Feature Paradigm: sturti / Getty Images

Explore the complex issue of bookish freedom, and understand how information technology impacts what and how subjects are taught in today'due south college classrooms. Desire to change careers? Come across how becoming a registered nurse offers a relatively quick choice for professionals to jumpstart a new, fulfilling career. Coronavirus has highlighted the heroic efforts of front end-line healthcare workers. Prospective healthcare students can expect jobs in this field to grow over the next decade.

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