Licensing guide

How to get your RN license, by state

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.

Licensing guides by state

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