How to get your RN license in North Dakota

Getting licensed in North Dakota at a glance

Steps to get licensed in North Dakota

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

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

North Dakota RN licensing FAQ

Does North Dakota require fingerprinting or a background check for a nursing license?

Yes. North Dakota requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Initial RN applicants must submit a Criminal History Record Check (CHRC) packet including fingerprint cards, which the ND Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) processes and forwards to the FBI; the CHRC is required for license issuance (though not to sit for the NCLEX).

How much does the North Dakota RN license application cost?

The initial North Dakota 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 North Dakota Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

Can I work in North Dakota before my RN license is issued?

North Dakota issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. Applicants who become eligible to test within 60 days of their degree being awarded are issued a 90-day nonrenewable Graduate Nurse Work Authorization at no additional cost, valid until the earlier of 90 days or receipt of the initial NCLEX fail result. Confirm the exact conditions with the North Dakota Board of Nursing.

How do I apply for my first RN license in North Dakota?

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