Step-by-step guide to getting your nursing license
Your education is just part of the process of earning nursing credentials. Find out what’s next after your degree.
The process of getting your nursing license can seem complicated, time-consuming and costly. There are multiple license types, different rules in different states and easy-to-confuse destinations like license, certification and credential. We’re here to help. We’ve broken down the steps, the states and more, so you can plan your path to licensure.
Your first step to getting any kind of nursing license will be getting the education and training you need. You can then take an exam to earn your license. Just like earning a driver’s license, you’ll need to get your training first, then demonstrate that training by passing a test.
Nursing careers that require licensure
There are four different types of nursing programs that require state-issued licenses. It’s important to note each state has slightly different regulations, and you will want to make sure the school you choose prepares you for the requirements of the state you want to work in.
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), called Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs) in multiple states
- Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), called Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in Texas and California
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)
While you might be able to find work as a nursing assistant without a license in some states and at some facilities, you typically won’t be able to use the CNA title. Generally, unlicensed nursing assistant roles pay less and have less room for growth. Plus, many hospitals, medical centers and other facilities only hire licensed CNAs.
Just like earning a driver’s license, you’ll need to get your training first, then demonstrate that training by passing a test.
While fees and testing requirements can vary, you’ll need about the same level of training and education for each level or nursing in every state. For example, while one state might have lower initial application fees for RNs than a nearby state, you’ll still need to complete either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to start the licensing process.
5 steps to earning your nursing license
Find an accredited, state-approved program.
Choosing the right nursing program can make a huge difference in your education. One of the most important considerations when you’re looking at programs is accreditation. If a program isn’t accredited, you could run into the following issues receiving financial aid, transferring credits, being eligible for certain exams or earning credentials or certifications.
Nursing programs are accredited nationally by a few agencies, most prominently the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the American Association of College of Nursing (AACN).
Both agencies ensure that programs are at a high standard and providing students with the information they need to know to be successful in their nursing careers. You can check if your school or program is accredited in a few ways. The institution most likely declares its accreditation on its website, most often in the “About” section. You can also visit the Department of Education’s database of accredited postsecondary institutions and programs website and search for your school or program.
Apply for a license with your state’s licensing board.
Once you’ve finished a state-approved, accredited nursing program, you’re ready to apply for your nursing license with your state’s licensing agency or nursing board. A nursing board is a government agency in each state that oversees nursing licensing. Most states have a single nursing board for LPNs, RNs and APRNs, although few states separate them. Some nursing boards also cover CNAs, but in many states, CNAs are overseen by separate professional licensing agencies.
Most states have similar licensing requirements. You’ll need to have completed a state-approved, accredited program before you apply. You’ll send your transcripts along with your application and fees to your state’s board. LPNs, RNs and APRNs need to pay application fees in every state. This isn’t always the case for CNAs. In some states, CNAs don’t pay any fees at all, while in other states you’ll only pay for your exam. Even in states that do charge fees, CNAs often have those fees included in their training program or paid by their employer. Some states require clinical hours; some don’t.
Register for the NCLEX or other required exams.
Once you’ve applied for your license, you can sign up to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX); a standardized test that state regulatory boards use to determine if a candidate is ready to become licensed as an entry-level nurse.
In every state, RNs and LPNs need to take the (NCLEX) to be licensed. LPNs will take the NCLEX-PN, while RNs will take the NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX-PN is an entry-level exam that tests the knowledge LPNs have gained, while the NCLEX-RN is more in-depth and designed for RNs.
You can register for the NCLEX online or by phone. You’ll need to provide proof of your education and proof you’ve been approved by your state to take the NCLEX. This is called an Authorization To Test (ATT). Your state will notify you when your application has been received. You’ll have a window to take your NCLEX once you receive your authorization. Most states will grant a 90-day ATT window.
Take and pass the test.
For RNs and LPNs/LVNs, the NCLEX is a multiple-choice exam administered on a computer at an approved testing center. The exam is responsive to you. When you get a question right, your next question will be harder. When you get a question wrong, your next question will be slightly easier. You’ll have a set number of questions and a set amount of time depending on your exam.
Complete additional state requirements.
Most states have multiple other requirements you’ll need to meet before you’re fully licensed. Generally, this includes:
• A background check including FBI fingerprints
• Self-reporting of any addiction concerns or past legal trouble you’ve had
• Proof of English language proficiency
• References from professors or supervisors
Most states also require that nurses be of “good moral character.” Normally, this is demonstrated by things like your background check and reference letters. Some nursing boards might also check in with your former employers.
Some states grant temporary licenses while you’re waiting for your full license to be processed, but not all. Your temporary license might have some restrictions.
For example, you might only be allowed to work under supervision. You can normally begin applying for jobs once you have a temporary license or when the application is in process. You’ll be able to take on the full range of job duties for your role when your state approves and sends you your license.
State nursing licensing requirements
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Alabama Certified Nurse Aide Registry
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Alabama Board of Nursing
CNAs
State Board Agency Name: Alabama Certified Nurse Aide Registry
Testing requirements: Nurse Aide Competency exam from Pearson VUE or the Alabama Nurse Aide Competency exam through Prometric
Fees: No application fee. Pay exam fee of either $100 for the written exam of $120 for the oral version.
Continuing Education Requirements: Certifications are kept active if the individual is currently working or has worked within the past 24 months in a nursing home, hospital, home health agency, hospice agency, or mental health facility.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
State Board Agency: Alabama Board of Nursing
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $85 application fee, $50 temporary license fee, $3.50 transaction fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 CEU, plus 12 hours of independent study every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
State Board Agency: Alabama Board of Nursing
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $85 application fee, $50 temporary license fee, $3.50 transaction fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 24 CEU, plus 12 hours of independent study through CEU
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
State Board Agency Name: Alabama Board of Nursing
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $150
Continuing Education Requirements: At least 24 hours with a minimum of 6 hours must be completed in Pharmacology
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Alaska Certified Nurse Aide Registry
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Alaska Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Nurse Aide Examination from Pearson VUE
Fees: $50 for application, $100 for certification, $60 for fingerprint processing, $50 for examination
Continuing Education Requirements: 160 hours of monetarily compensated work experience and 24 hours of CEUs for two-year license renewal. The Alaska CNA Board stipulates that 12 CEUs are to be completed every 12 months to renew your license.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $275 (permanent license only) or $325 (including temporary permit)
Continuing Education Requirements: Must complete two of the following for license renewal: 30 contact hours, 30 hours professional nursing activities, 320 hours nursing employment
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $275 (permanent license only) or $325 (including temporary permit)
Continuing Education Requirements: Must complete two of the following for license renewal: 30 contact hours, 30 hours professional nursing activities, 320 hours nursing employment
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: Non-Refundable Application Fee: $100, APRN Licensure Fee: $100, Prescriptive Authority Fee: $100, Controlled Substances Prescriptive Authority Fee: $100, Temporary Permit: $100
Continuing Education Requirements: Submit proof of 60 hours of continuing education within the previous two years of the date of your application. Five contact hours of education in advanced pharmacology and clinical management of drug therapy.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agency: Arizona State Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Arizona Nursing Assistant exam. The exam has a written and a skills component.
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $50 temporary license, $150 application fee, $50 fingerprints
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past five years
- Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within past five years
- Completed an Arizona Board approved refresher course in the past five years
- Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years (i.e. LPN-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, master’s, or doctoral)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $50 temporary license, $150 application fee, $50 fingerprints
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past five years
- Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within past five years
- Completed an Arizona Board approved refresher course in the past five years
- Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years (i.e. LPN-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, master’s, or doctorate)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: Application fee: $150 (required), fingerprint fee: $50 (required), temporary certification fee: $35 (optional), prescribing and dispensing fee: $150 (optional) (for nurse practitioners only)
Continuing Education Requirements: Licensees who are authorized to prescribe or dispense Schedule II controlled substances and have a valid DEA number must complete a minimum of three hours related to opioids, substance abuse/use disorder, or addiction every four-year renewal.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Arkansas Department of Human Services
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Arkansas Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Arkansas Nursing Assistant Competency exam
Fees:
- Arkansas will pay testing fees for candidates who are employed in nursing homes or have offers of employment in nursing homes.
- Candidates who are not eligible to have the state cover their testing fees will pay $10 for initial eligibility screening and $79 for the full assessment ($45: clinical skills test; $34: written or oral test).
Continuing Education Requirements: CNAs in Arkansas must complete 12 hours of CE annually.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $30 (temporary license), $125 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past five years
- Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within past five years
- Completed an Arizona Board approved refresher course in the past five years
- Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years (i.e. LPN-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, master’s, or doctorate)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $30 (temporary license), $125 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past five years
- Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within past five years
- Completed an Arizona Board approved refresher course in the past five years
- Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years (i.e. LPN-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, master’s, or doctorate)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: Original license: $125, certificate of prescriptive authority: $160
Continuing Education Requirements:
- Arkansas nurses are required to complete 15 hours of CE to renew a license.
- Arkansas nursing licenses must be renewed before the last day of the licensee’s birth month.
- Renewal applications should include certificates of completed CEs.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: California Department of Public Health
LPN State Board: California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
RN and APRN State Board: California Board of Registered Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: California Nursing Assistant Competency Evaluation Examination
Fees: $90 for written knowledge exam; $105 for oral version
Continuing Education Requirements: If you are a CNA in California, you need to have 48 hours of continuing education (CE) to renew your license.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: Exam $220; license $220
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $50 (temporary license), $100 (permanent license), $49 fingerprints
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years; due on your birthday
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: Application fee: $500. If you want to prescribe as a nurse practitioner in California, you’ll need to apply for a Furnishing Number (application fee: $50).
Continuing Education Requirements: Licensees who are authorized to prescribe or dispense Schedule II controlled substances and have a valid DEA number must complete a minimum of three hours related to opioids, substance abuse/use disorder, or addiction every four-year renewal.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agency: Colorado Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: National Nurse Aide Assessment from Pearson VUE
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $88 license; $164 renewal
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years (by September 30)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $88; $164 renewal
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years (by September 30)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $75 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Follows national requirements
Clinical Hours Required: None required
You Should Know: As an advanced practice nurse, you must qualify and apply for prescriptive authority. You must complete three graduate semester hours in each of the following courses to qualify:
- Pharmacology (including education on prescribing drugs and controlled substances)
- Pathophysiology
- Physical assessment
You must also document an 1,800-hour preceptorship and mentorship and develop an Articulated Plan. If you receive prescriptive authority, the credential you hold will be RXN-P.
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Nurse Aid Registration
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Board of Examiners for Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Connecticut Nurse Aide Examination through Prometric
Fees: $110 exam fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $180 (includes the cost of a temporary license)
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $180 (includes the cost of a temporary license)
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $200 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 50 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Delaware CNA Registry
LPN and RN State Board: Delaware Board of Nursing
APRN State Board: Delaware Board of Nursing (APRN)
CNAs
Testing requirements: Delaware Nurse Aide Exam though Prometric
Fees: CNA exam includes clinical skills test and knowledge test; $108 if taking the written knowledge test; $118 if taking the oral knowledge test.
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: At least 64 hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $40 temporary license; $141 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years, one of the following:
- 1,000 practice hours within the past five years
- 400 practice hours within the past two years
- Refresher course within the past two years AND CEU-30 including three hours on substance abuse
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $170 application and processing fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years, one of the following:
- 1,000 practice hours within the past five years
- 400 practice hours within the past two years
- Refresher course within the past two years AND CEU-30 including three hours on substance abuse
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $170 application and processing fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 10 hours in pharmacology if you have prescriptive authority
Clinical Hours Required: At least 64 hours of paid work in the past two years
Licensing Agency: Florida Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Florida Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: $140 exam fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $110 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours including two hours on the laws and rules that govern the practice of nursing in Florida; two hours of education on human trafficking
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $110 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours including two hours on the laws and rules that govern the practice of nursing in Florida; two hours of education on human trafficking
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $210 licensure fee, $100 for prescriptive authority
Continuing Education Requirements: 16 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Georgia Nurse Aide Program
LPN State Board: Georgia Board of Nursing (LPN)
RN State Board: Georgia Board of Nursing (RN)
APRN State Board: Georgia Board of Nursing (APRN)
CNAs
Testing requirements: National Nurse Aide Assessment through Pearson VUE
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $40 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 500 hours worked in two years
You Should Know: Nurses with 500 worked hours don’t need CEU credits.
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $40 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 500 hours worked in two years
You Should Know: Nurses with 500 worked hours don’t need CEU credits
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $75 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Hawaii Professional & Vocational Licensing Division
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Hawaii Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Hawaii Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: $200 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work over the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: Combined application and license fees: $234 during odd numbered years; $166 during even numbered years (per state’s Compliance Resolution Fund formula)
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years on June 30th of odd years, one of the following:
- 30 contact hours of continuing education activities
- Completion of a board-approved refresher course
- Completion of a minimum of two-semester credits of post-licensure academic education related to nursing practice from an accredited nursing program
- Participation as a preceptor, for at least one nursing student or employee transitioning into new clinical practice areas for at least 120 hours, in a one-to-one relationship as part of an organized preceptorship program
- Completion as principal or co-principal investigator of a nursing research project that is an institutional review board project or evidence-based practice project that has been preapproved by the board
- Authoring or co-authoring a peer-reviewed published nursing or health-related article, book, or book chapter
- Developing and conducting a nursing education presentation or presentations totaling a minimum of five contact hours of actual organized instruction that qualifies as continuing education
- Completion of a board-recognized nurse residency program
- A similar type of learning activity option, provided that the type of activity shall be recognized by the board
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: Combined application and license fees: $234 during odd numbered years; $166 during even numbered years (per state’s Compliance Resolution Fund formula)
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years on June 30th of odd years, one of the following:
- 30 contact hours of continuing education activities
- Completion of a board-approved refresher course
- Completion of a minimum of two-semester credits of post-licensure academic education related to nursing practice from an accredited nursing program
- Participation as a preceptor, for at least one nursing student or employee transitioning into new clinical practice areas for at least 120 hours, in a one-to-one relationship as part of an organized preceptorship program
- Completion as principal or co-principal investigator of a nursing research project that is an institutional review board project or evidence-based practice project that has been preapproved by the board
- Authoring or co-authoring a peer-reviewed published nursing or health-related article, book, or book chapter
- Developing and conducting a nursing education presentation or presentations totaling a minimum of five contact hours of actual organized instruction that qualifies as continuing education
- Completion of a board-recognized nurse residency program
- A similar type of learning activity option, provided that the type of activity shall be recognized by the board
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $194 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours with eight hours in pharmacology
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Idaho Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Idaho Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $25 temporary license, $152 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 15 contact hours of continuing education OR completion of a minimum of one semester credit hour of post-licensure academic education
Clinical Hours Required: 100 hours of practice or simulation practice
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $25 temporary license, $152 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 15 contact hours of continuing education OR completion of a minimum of one semester credit hour of post-licensure academic education
Clinical Hours Required: 100 hours of practice or simulation practice
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $90 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 15 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Illinois Department of Public Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Illinois Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Illinois State Nursing Aide Exam
Fees: $75 application and test fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $25 temporary license, $50 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: CEU: 20 hours, every two years by May 31
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $25 temporary license, $50 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: CEU: 20 hours, every two years by May 31
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $125 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 80 hours, with one hour in sexual harassment every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Indiana State Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Indiana Professional Licensing Agency
CNAs
Testing requirements: Indiana State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $50 temporary license, $60 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $50 temporary license, $60 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $50 Application, $60 prescriptive authority registration
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Iowa Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Iowa State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $169 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every three years:
• 36 hours of CEUs (license less than three years—24 CEUs)
• Two hours child abuse training
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $169 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every three years:
- 36 hours of CEUs (license less than three years—24 CEUs)
- Two hours child abuse training
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $81 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work every two years
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Kansas Health Occupations Credentialing
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Kansas Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Kansas State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $20 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 12 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $75 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $75 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Commonwealth of Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Service
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Kentucky Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Kentucky Nurse Aide Exam (written exam and skills test)
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight paid hours of work every two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $165 temporary license, $165 permanent license, $12 fingerprint fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Two hours of HIV/AIDS education and one of the following within the past two years (waived for the first renewal after licensure):
- 14 contact hours
- National, practice-related certification or recertification
- Completion of nursing research project as director, principal investigator, or co-investigator
- Publication of nursing-related article
- Professional nursing education presentation
- 120 hours as preceptor
- Seven contact hours plus satisfactory employment evaluation for CE
- Three contact hours of domestic violence education within the first three years after licensure (one time only)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $165 temporary license, $165 permanent license, $12 fingerprint fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Two hours of HIV/AIDS education and one of the following within the past two years (waived for the first renewal after licensure):
- 14 contact hours
- National, practice-related certification or recertification
- Completion of nursing research project as director, principal investigator, or co-investigator
- Publication of nursing-related article
- Professional nursing education presentation
- 120 hours as preceptor
- Seven contact hours plus satisfactory employment evaluation for CE
- Three contact hours of domestic violence education within the first three years after licensure (one time only)
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $165 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 14 hours with five in pharmacology every year
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Louisiana Department of Health
LPN State Board: Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners
RN and APRN State Board: Louisiana State Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Louisiana Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight paid hours of work every two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $200 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $240.75 (temporary license), $140.75 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements:
- Full-time nurses: 5 CEU
- Part-time nurses: 10 CEU
- Inactive nurses: 15 CEU
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $140.75 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work every two years
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Maine Department of Health and Human Services Division of Licensing and Certification
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Maine State Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Maine State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $75 temporary license, $75 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $75 temporary license, $75 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 50 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Maryland Board of Nursing
LPN and RN State Board: Maryland Board of Nursing
APRN State Board: Maryland Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Maryland State Nursing Aide Exam. Exam has both written test and skills test components.
Fees: $20 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $40 (temporary license), $100 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: 1,000 practice related hours every two years unless you graduated less than five years ago
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $40 (temporary license), $100 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: 1,000 practice related hours every two years unless you graduated less than five years ago
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $50 application fee, $25 certification fee
Continuing Education Requirements: National certification regulations
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry Program
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Massachusetts State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam has both written test and skills test components.
Fees: $93 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the last two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $275 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 15 hours (waived for first renewal) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $275 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 15 hours (waived for first renewal) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $180 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 15 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Michigan Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Michigan Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work every two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $64 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 25 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $64 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 25 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $208.80 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 25 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Minnesota Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Minnesota Nursing Board
CNAs
Testing requirements: Minnesota State Nursing Aide Exam
Fees: $64 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $105 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $105 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $105 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Mississippi Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Mississippi Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: National Nurse Aide Assessment though Pearson VUE
Fees: $101 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 20 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 20 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $175 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 40 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Missouri Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Missouri Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Missouri State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam has both written test and skills test components
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $55 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $55 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $150 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Montana Department of Health and Human Services
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Montana Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Montana State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $77 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $200 application fee. $27.25 background check fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $200 application fee. $27.25 background check fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services/Division of Public Health/Licensure Unit
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services/Division of Public Health/Licensure Unit
CNAs
Testing requirements: Nebraska State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam has both written test and skills test components.
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work every two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $123 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 20 contact hours of board-approved CE within the past two years
Clinical Hours Required: 500 practice hours within the past five years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $123 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 20 contact hours of board-approved CE within the past two years
Clinical Hours Required: 500 practice hours within the past five years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $68 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 40 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 2,080 working hours in the past five years
Licensing Agency: Nevada State Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Nevada State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $97.50 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: At least 40 hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $100 application, $200 examination
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours (including four hours on bioterrorism) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $100 application, $200 examination
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours (including four hours on bioterrorism) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $200 application fee; various fees for exam by specialty
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: At least 40 hours of paid work in the past two years
Licensing Agencies
CNA (LNA) Licensing Agency: New Hampshire Board of Nursing
LPN and RN State Board: New Hampshire Board of Nursing
APRN State Board: New Hampshire Board of Nursing
CNAs (called LNAs in New Hampshire)
Testing requirements: New Hampshire State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $35 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours in the past two years
Clinical Hours Required: 200 hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $20 (temporary license), $120 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 400 hours every two years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $20 (temporary license), $120 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 400 hours every two years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $20 (temporary license), $100 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 60 hours with 30 in your specialty every four years
Clinical Hours Required: 400 hours every four years
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: New Jersey Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: New Jersey Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: New Jersey State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam includes both written test and skills test components.
Fees: $23 skills test, $53 written test, $67 oral or Spanish language test
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least seven hours paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $140 (temporary license), $200 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours (one CEU on organ and tissue donation) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $140 (temporary license), $200 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours (one CEU on organ and tissue donation) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 application fee, $80 or $160 certification fee (depending on the date of your RN license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every five years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: New Mexico Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: New Mexico Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: New Mexico Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: $102 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $50 (temporary license), $110 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $50 (temporary license), $110 (permanent license)
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: New York State Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: New York Office of the Professions
CNAs
Testing requirements: New York Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: Seven hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $35 temporary license, $143 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: Three CEU on infection control and two CEU on child abuse recognition every four years.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $35 temporary license, $143 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: Three CEU on infection control and two CEU on child abuse recognition every four years.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $85 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Health Service Regulation
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: North Carolina Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: National Nurse Aide Assessment through Pearson VUE
Fees: $101 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $150 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: : 30 contact hours of continued education every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 640 hours of active practice within previous two years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $150 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 contact hours of continued education every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 640 hours of active practice within previous two years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $125 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Maintain national certification
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: North Dakota Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: North Dakota Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: North Dakota State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $120 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $160 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 12 hours every year
Clinical Hours Required: 400 practice hours within last four years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $160 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 12 hours every year
Clinical Hours Required: 400 practice hours within last four years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $125 application, $75 for prescriptive authority
Continuing Education Requirements: 12 hours in the past two years, 15 hours of pharmacology if you have prescriptive authority
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Ohio Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Ohio Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Ohio State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam includes both written test and skills test components.
Fees: $76 skills test; $24 written test/$34 oral test
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours paid work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $75 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours (including one hour Ohio nursing law) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $75 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours (including one hour Ohio nursing law) every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Oklahoma State Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Oklahoma Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Oklahoma Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $95 temporary license, $85 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $95 temporary license, $85 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $70 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 15 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agency: Oregon State Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Nurse Aide Competency exam through Headmaster Testing Service
Fees: $106 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $195 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Seven hours on pain management every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 960 practice hours (within five years)
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $195 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Seven hours on pain management every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 960 practice hours (within five years)
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $150 for licensure, $75 for prescriptive authority
Continuing Education Requirements: 45 hours every two years, at least 15 in pharmacology
Clinical Hours Required: None required
You Should Know: Prescriptive authority is required for APRNs in Oregon.
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Pennsylvania Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Nurse Aide competency exam through Credentia
Fees: $102 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work every two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $35 temporary license, $100 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 30 hours, including three hours of state Department of Public Welfare-approved training in child abuse recognition and reporting requirements
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $35 temporary license, $100 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 30 hours, including three hours of state Department of Public Welfare-approved training in child abuse recognition and reporting requirements
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 application, $95 for prescriptive authority
Continuing Education Requirements: 48 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Rhode Island Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Rhode Island Department of Health
CNAs
Testing requirements: Rhode Island State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $135 license and application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 10 hours, including two hours of substance abuse education.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $135 license and application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 10 hours, including two hours of substance abuse education.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $145 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 10 hours, including two hours of substance abuse education.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: South Carolina Bureau of Long Term Care Services
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: South Carolina Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: National Nurse Aide Assessment through Pearson VUE
Fees: $101 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $10 temporary license, $100 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 contact hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $10 temporary license, $100 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 contact hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $170 license fee, $20 for prescriptive authority
Continuing Education Requirements: National certification maintained, 20 hours pharmacotherapeutics if you have prescriptive authority
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: South Dakota Department of Health
LPN and RN State Board: South Dakota Department of Health
APRN State Board: South Dakota Department of Health
CNAs
Testing requirements: South Dakota State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam includes both written test and skills test components.
Fees: $89 for skills test; $70.50 for written knowledge test or $80.50 for oral test
Continuing Education Requirements: 12 hours each year
Clinical Hours Required: At least 12 paid hours every two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $25 (temporary license), $100 (permanent license), $43.25 background check fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: 140 practice hours during any 12-month period within the past six years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $25 (temporary license), $100 (permanent license), $43.25 background check fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: 140 practice hours during any 12-month period within the past six years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Follows national rules of certification by specialty
Clinical Hours Required: Follows national rules of certification by specialty
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Tennessee Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Tennessee Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Tennessee State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours of paid work in the last two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $115 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: Proof of practice
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $115 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: Proof of practice
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $210 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Two hours to specifically address substance abuse every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Texas Department of Health and Human Services
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Texas Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Texas State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $95 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: Must be actively employed for renewal
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $186 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 20 hours in the area of practice including two hours on bioterrorism
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $186 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years: 20 hours in the area of practice including two hours on bioterrorism
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $100 for APRN license; $150 with prescriptive authority
Continuing Education Requirements: 20 hours every two years; five additional hours in pharmacotherapeutics for APRNs with prescriptive authority
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Utah Nursing Assistant Registry
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Utah Department of Commerce Division of Occupational and Professional Licensure
CNAs
Testing requirements: Utah State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $85 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 15 CEU hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 400 practice hours within the past two years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $100 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 15 CEU hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 400 practice hours within the past two years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $175 application fee; $240 to include controlled substance license
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA (LNA) Licensing Agency: Vermont Office of Professional Regulation
LPN State Board: Vermont State Board of Nursing
RN State Board: Vermont State Board of Nursing
APRN State Board: Vermont State Board of Nursing
CNAs (Called LNAs in Vermont)
Testing requirements: National Nurse Aide Assessment from Pearson VUE
Fees: $130 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: 400 hours of paid CNA work in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $150 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: One of the following every two years:
• 960 practice hours within the past five years
• 400 practice hours within the past two years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $150 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: One of the following every two years:
- 960 practice hours within the past five years
- 400 practice hours within the past two years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $60 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None if license is in good standing
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agency: Virginia Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Virginia State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam has both written test and skills test components
Fees: None
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
You Should Know: Advanced CNA certification is available: application $25
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $190 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- Current specialty certification by a national certifying organization
- Completion of a minimum of three credit hours of post-licensure academic education relevant to nursing practice
- Board-approved refresher course in nursing
- Completion of nursing-related, evidence-based practice project or research study
- Completion of publication as the author or co-author during a renewal cycle
- Teaching a nursing-related course resulting in no less than three semester hours of college credit or specialty certification
- Teaching nursing-related continuing education courses for up to 30 contact hours
- 15 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences or courses relevant to the practice of nursing and 640 hours of active practice as a nurse
- 30 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences or courses relevant to the practice of nursing
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $190 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- Current specialty certification by a national certifying organization
- Completion of a minimum of three credit hours of post-licensure academic education relevant to nursing practice
- Board-approved refresher course in nursing
- Completion of nursing-related, evidence-based practice project or research study
- Completion of publication as the author or co-author during a renewal cycle
- Teaching a nursing-related course resulting in no less than three semester hours of college credit or specialty certification
- Teaching nursing-related continuing education courses for up to 30 contact hours
- 15 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences or courses relevant to the practice of nursing and 640 hours of active practice as a nurse
- 30 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences or courses relevant to the practice of nursing
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $125 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 40 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Washington State Department of Health
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: Washington State Department of Health-Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Washington State Nurse Aide Exam
Fees: $85 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $120 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 45 hours every three years
Clinical Hours Required: 531 hours every three years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $120 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 45 hours every three years
Clinical Hours Required: 531 hours every three years
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $125 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 30 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 250 hours every two years
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: DC Health CNA Licensing
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: DC Health Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: National Nursing Assistant Assessment Program (NNAAP) Examination administered by Pearson VUE
Fees: $55 written or oral exam
Continuing Education Requirements: Must have worked at least eight hours for pay performing nursing-related services during the certification period and have completed at least 24 hours of continuing education
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $187 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 18 hours of continuing education every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $187 license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours of continuing education every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $230 license fee; $145 prescriptive authority fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours of continuing education, including 15 hours of pharmacology hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Office of Health Facility Licensure & Certification
LPN State Board: West Virginia LPN Board
RN and APRN State Board: West Virginia RN Board
CNAs
Testing requirements: West Virginia State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam includes both written test and skills test components
Fees: $125 for the written and skills test combination or $160 for the oral and skills test combination
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: At least eight hours in the past two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $10 temporary license; $75 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 contact hours of continuing education every two years
Clinical Hours Required: 400 hours every two years
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $25 temporary license; $100 permanent license
Continuing Education Requirements: 12 hours, including two hours on mental health conditions, one hour on drug diversion training and best practice prescribing of controlled substances yearly
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $35 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: 24 hours every two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
You Should Know: All continuing education for APRN license renewal needs to be at the CRNA or APRN level. No RN-level courses.
Licensing Agencies
CNA Licensing Agency: Wisconsin Department of Health Services
LPN, RN and APRN State Board: State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
CNAs
Testing requirements: Wisconsin State Nurse Aide Exam. Exam has both written test and skills test components
Fees: $125 written test or $130 oral test
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: Eight hours under the supervision of RN or LPN every two years
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $10 (temporary license), $75 (new graduates), $82 (out of state nurses)
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $10 (temporary license), $75 (new graduates), $82 (out of state nurses)
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $73 credential fee, $75 state law fee
Continuing Education Requirements: Eight CEU hours each year in clinical pharmacology/therapeutics in your area of practice
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Licensing Agency: Wyoming State Board of Nursing
CNAs
Testing requirements: Wyoming Nurse Aide Exam through Prometric
Fees: $60 application, $60 criminal background check
Continuing Education Requirements: None required
Clinical Hours Required: None required
LPNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-PN
Fees: $195 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- 500 practice hours within the past two years
- 1,600 practice hours within the past five years
- 20 CE units in the past two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
RNs
Testing requirements: NCLEX-RN
Fees: $195 application and license fee
Continuing Education Requirements: One of the following:
- 500 practice hours within the past two years
- 1,600 practice hours within the past five years
- 20 CE units in the past two years
Clinical Hours Required: None required
APRNs
Testing requirements: Nationally recognized exam in area of specialty
Fees: $250 application fee
Continuing Education Requirements: For prescriptive authority 15 contact hours of continuing education in pharmacotherapeutics. Other requirements follow national certification rules.
Clinical Hours Required: None required
Find out how to become a nurse in your state
The process of becoming a nurse is different depending on the state in which you are seeking licensure. Each state has different requirements and standards that you should be aware of.
Here are some of the top states for nurses in the U.S.:
Why is school accreditation important?
In addition to ensuring educational standards are kept high and the curriculum is perpetually updated, attending an accredited nursing school is vitally important to consider while choosing a nursing school due to the benefits it provides to the student.
In fact, attending a non-accredited nursing school may result in the following ramifications:
- You won’t be able to get financial aid from the federal government
- Your credits won’t transfer if you want to go back to school later
- You might not be eligible to take the exams you need for licensure
- You might not be eligible for credentials or certifications
Make sure and double-check with organizations like the AACN and the ACEN to ensure you will not be subject to some of the aforementioned consequences.
New guidelines clarify state-level requirements for nursing grads
A new licensing disclosure rule from the U.S. Department of Education requires higher education institutions to tell prospective students whether or not their specific degree program will qualify them to work in all 50 states. The rule, which went into effect in July, 2020, is intended to prevent students from completing a school’s program, only to discover upon graduation that the program doesn’t meet state-level requirements for employment.
Want to work in the U.S. as a foreign nurse?
If you’ve worked as a nurse in another country and want to become a registered nurse in the U.S., there are a few more steps you’ll need to take before applying for your license, including passing an English language proficiency test, taking a special exam top prove your readiness to work as a nurse, and completing a screening for a work visa.
Cross-state licensing (NLC) is available
Keep in mind that your license is generally intended for use in your state only. However, many states participate in a program called Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).
Under the NLC, licenses from participating states can be used in multiple states. So whether you’re moving to a new state long term or taking on a two-month assignment as a travel nurse, you can likely use your current license.
Current Nurse Licensure Compact states and status
Nurse Licensure Compact map ©2020 data courtesy of National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). New Jersey is allowing nurses who hold active, unencumbered, multi-state licenses issued by Nurse Licensure Compact member states to practice in New Jersey under their multi-state licenses.
What if your license expires and you want to work again?
Generally, RN licenses are valid for two years. If you haven’t been working for a while and want to get back into nursing, there are a few things you need to do. First: check with your state’s board of nursing to find out what the rules are in your particular state.
“Most states allow these nurses to take refresher courses—for both the LPN and RN—and some require a skills test,” says Robert Rosseter, chief communications officer for the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. “Most boards maintain a list of schools that offer the refresher courses.”
Similarly, you’ll need to check with your state if your APRN or CNA license expires. Depending on how long ago your license expired, you might need to pay a late fee, take a course, or take an exam.
