How long does it take to get your first RN license?

Most state boards issue the license within a few days to a few weeks after you pass the NCLEX-RN and your background check clears. The background check is usually the slowest step, so applying early helps. Your state page has board-specific timing where the board publishes it.

How much does it cost to get your first RN license?

There are two main costs: the NCLEX-RN exam fee is $200 nationally, paid to Pearson VUE, plus your state board's licensure-by-examination application fee, which varies by state. Fingerprinting adds a small vendor fee where it is required. Your state page lists that state's application fee.

Do all states require a background check to get licensed?

Most do. 47 of the 51 boards we track require a fingerprint-based criminal background check for initial licensure; a few use a name-based check, and a small number require none. Your state page shows which applies.

Can I work as a nurse before my license is issued?

Some states issue a temporary permit that lets a new graduate work under supervision while the full license is processed; others do not offer one. It is set by each state board, so check your state page for whether a temporary permit is available.

Does my RN license work in other states?

A single-state license is valid only in the state that issued it. If your home state is in the Nurse Licensure Compact, you may qualify for a multistate license that works across compact states. To move an existing license to a new state, you apply by endorsement.

Licensing guide

How to get your RN license, by state

Built by Keegan, a travel RN · verified against official board sources

Getting a first RN license means graduating from an approved program, applying to your state board by examination, passing a background check, and passing the NCLEX-RN. The exam is national, but the application fee, the background check, and whether you can work on a temporary permit are set by each state board. Pick your state for the specifics.

The path in six steps

1Graduate from a state-approved RN program (ADN or BSN).
2Apply for licensure by examination through your state board and pay the application fee.
3Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE ($200 exam fee).
4Complete the required criminal background check (fingerprint-based in most states).
5Get your Authorization to Test (ATT), then schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN.
6The board issues your license once the exam and background check clear.

47 of the 51 boards we track require a fingerprint-based background check for initial licensure. Your state page has the exact requirement, fee, and permit rules.

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN?

Question bank: Practice with a BoardVitals NCLEX-RN question bank
Study guide: Study with Mometrix guides & practice tests

Some prep links are affiliate links. RenewRN may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Licensing guides by state

First RN license FAQ

How long does it take to get your first RN license?: Most state boards issue the license within a few days to a few weeks after you pass the NCLEX-RN and your background check clears. The background check is usually the slowest step, so applying early helps. Your state page has board-specific timing where the board publishes it.
How much does it cost to get your first RN license?: There are two main costs: the NCLEX-RN exam fee is $200 nationally, paid to Pearson VUE, plus your state board's licensure-by-examination application fee, which varies by state. Fingerprinting adds a small vendor fee where it is required. Your state page lists that state's application fee.
Do all states require a background check to get licensed?: Most do. 47 of the 51 boards we track require a fingerprint-based criminal background check for initial licensure; a few use a name-based check, and a small number require none. Your state page shows which applies.
Can I work as a nurse before my license is issued?: Some states issue a temporary permit that lets a new graduate work under supervision while the full license is processed; others do not offer one. It is set by each state board, so check your state page for whether a temporary permit is available.
Does my RN license work in other states?: A single-state license is valid only in the state that issued it. If your home state is in the Nurse Licensure Compact, you may qualify for a multistate license that works across compact states. To move an existing license to a new state, you apply by endorsement.

Moving a license or checking compact eligibility? Nurse Licensure Compact map and license transfer planner.

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