How to get your RN license in Tennessee

Getting licensed in Tennessee at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Tennessee

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Tennessee Board of Nursing and pay the $150 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 Tennessee Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Tennessee RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Tennessee requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. All initial licensure applicants (including RN) must obtain a fingerprint-based criminal background check through the state's vendor IdentoGO, run by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and FBI; board rule 1000-01-.03 separately calls this a "biometric criminal background check" required with the exam application.

How much does the Tennessee RN license application cost?

The initial Tennessee RN license-by-examination application fee is $150. 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 Tennessee Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

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

Tennessee issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. Tennessee statute (T.C.A. § 63-7-105) lets a "graduate nurse" practice without a license for up to 120 calendar days from first NCLEX-RN exam authorization, in a licensed healthcare facility and under direct supervision of a licensed RN; a separate 6-month board-issued temporary permit exists for out-of-state RNs with a pending endorsement application (not for first-time exam candidates). Confirm the exact conditions with the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

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

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