How to get your RN license in Georgia

Getting licensed in Georgia at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Georgia

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Georgia Board of Nursing and pay the $40 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 Georgia Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Georgia RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Georgia requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Applicants for RN licensure by examination must register with GAPS/Idemia (the fingerprinting vendor contracted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation) and complete fingerprinting as part of the required criminal background check before licensure is granted.

How much does the Georgia RN license application cost?

The initial Georgia RN license-by-examination application fee is $40. 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 Georgia Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

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

Georgia issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. An applicant for licensure by examination who graduated from a Board-approved nursing program since December 1, 2019, and who has submitted all required documentation and received an authorization to test, may be issued a temporary permit to practice as a Graduate Nurse (GN) pending NCLEX results, working under direct supervision. Confirm the exact conditions with the Georgia Board of Nursing.

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

Graduate from an approved nursing program, register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, apply for licensure by examination through the Georgia 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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