How to get your RN license in Delaware

Getting licensed in Delaware at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Delaware

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Delaware Board of Nursing and pay the $181 application fee.
3. 3Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee.
4. 4Complete the required fingerprint-based criminal background check.
5. 5Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), then schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN.
6. 6Apply for a temporary/graduate-nurse permit if you need to work before the permanent license issues.
7. 7The Delaware Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

Start at the source: Delaware Board of Nursing. Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Delaware? See licensure by endorsement instead.

Delaware RN licensing FAQ

Does Delaware require fingerprinting or a background check for a nursing license?

Yes. Delaware requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Delaware requires a fingerprint-based State of Delaware and FBI criminal background check completed via IdentoGO; background checks done for other purposes (employment, other-state licensure) do not satisfy this requirement.

How much does the Delaware RN license application cost?

The initial Delaware RN license-by-examination application fee is $181. This is separate from the NCLEX-RN exam fee ($200 to Pearson VUE) and any fingerprint/background-check vendor fee. Confirm the current amount on the Delaware Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

Can I work in Delaware before my RN license is issued?

Delaware issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. Delaware issues a Graduate Nurse (GN) Temporary Permit to examination applicants who have a Delaware job offer and have already applied for RN licensure; it expires 90 days after graduation (or immediately upon exam failure) and costs a separate $40 fee. Confirm the exact conditions with the Delaware Board of Nursing.

How do I apply for my first RN license in Delaware?

Graduate from an approved nursing program, register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, apply for licensure by examination through the Delaware Board of Nursing, complete the required background check, then pass the NCLEX-RN. The board issues your license once every requirement clears.

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