How to get your RN license in Kentucky

Getting licensed in Kentucky at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Kentucky

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Kentucky Board of Nursing and pay the $125 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 Kentucky Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Kentucky RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Kentucky requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Applicants must complete a state and federal (FBI) criminal background check via fingerprint-based Live Scan (or hard-card fallback) through IdentoGO, using KBN Service Code 27GKJR.

How much does the Kentucky RN license application cost?

The initial Kentucky RN license-by-examination application fee is $125. 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 Kentucky Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

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

Kentucky issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. KBN issues a Provisional License (RNA status) valid for up to 6 months once all application requirements are met, allowing direct patient care under direct RN/APRN supervision while the exam application is pending; it becomes void if the applicant fails NCLEX twice. Confirm the exact conditions with the Kentucky Board of Nursing.

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

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