How to get your RN license in Nebraska

Getting licensed in Nebraska at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Nebraska

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Nebraska Board of Nursing and pay the $123 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 Nebraska Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Nebraska RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Nebraska requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Neb. Rev. Stat. §38-131 requires initial RN applicants to submit a full set of fingerprints, forwarded by the Nebraska State Patrol to the FBI, for a national criminal history record check.

How much does the Nebraska RN license application cost?

The initial Nebraska RN license-by-examination application fee is $123. 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 Nebraska Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

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

Nebraska issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. Neb. Rev. Stat. §38-2225 authorizes the department to issue a temporary license (valid up to 60 days, extendable) to graduates who have passed the NCLEX licensure examination, pending completion of their Nebraska licensure application. Confirm the exact conditions with the Nebraska Board of Nursing.

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

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