How to get your RN license in Pennsylvania

Getting licensed in Pennsylvania at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Pennsylvania

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (BPOA) and pay the $95 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 Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (BPOA) issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

Start at the source: Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (BPOA). Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Pennsylvania? See licensure by endorsement instead.

Pennsylvania RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Pennsylvania requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. All new RN applicants must obtain a fingerprint-based FBI background check (pre-registered through IdentoGO), and if Pennsylvania is the applicant's state of residence, also a Pennsylvania State Police record check.

How much does the Pennsylvania RN license application cost?

The initial Pennsylvania RN license-by-examination application fee is $95. 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 Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (BPOA) portal before you pay.

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

Pennsylvania issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. The Board issues a Graduate Registered Nurse temporary practice permit (fee $70, per 49 Pa. Code § 21.5), valid up to 1 year, allowing supervised practice while the licensure-by-examination application/NCLEX is pending, per 49 Pa. Code § 21.7. Confirm the exact conditions with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (BPOA).

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

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

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