Requirements

NCLEX Requirements by State 2026

State by State NCLEX Requirements

Alabama

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 48 hours
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: No set time frame - processed when materials are received
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $100 application fee, $50 temporary license fee, $3.50 transaction fee
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts, license verification
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: No
  • Renewal Requirements: 24 CEU, plus 12 hours of independent study through CEU
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years on even-numbered years unless they earned their licenses between Aug. 31 and Dec. 31
  • Website: https://www.abn.alabama.gov/apply/
  • Telephone Number: 800.656.5318

Alaska

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 10 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 10 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $375 (permanent license only) or $475 (including temporary permit)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts, license verification
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: Must complete 2 of the following:
    • 30 contact hours
    • 60 hours uncompensated professional nursing activities
    • 320 hours nursing employment
  • Renewal Date: November 30th of even-numbered years only
  • Website: https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/professionallicensing/boardofnursing.aspx
  • Telephone Number: 907.269.8161

Arizona

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 48 hours walk-in OR 2 weeks mail
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 1-2 months
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: Yes
  • Cost: $50 temporary, $300 application fee, $50 fingerprints
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following requirements:
    • Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past 5 years OR
    • Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within past 5 years OR
    • Completed an Arizona Board-approved refresher course in the past 5 years OR
    • Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past 5 years (i.e. LPN to RN, RN to BSN, master’s, or doctorate).
  • Renewal Date: Every 4 years
  • Website: http://www.azbn.gov/Default.aspx
  • Telephone Number: 602.771.7800

Arkansas

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 3-5 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 3-5 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $30 (temporary license), $125 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: Nurses born in odd-numbered years renew in odd years, and those born in even years renew in even years. Active licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, and advanced practice nurses must complete the continuing education requirement by one of these methods prior to each biennial renewal:
    • Earn 15 contact hours of appropriately accredited practice-focused activities; OR
    • Hold a current nationally recognized certification/recertification; OR
    • Complete a minimum of one college credit hour course in nursing with a grade of C or better during licensure period.
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.arsbn.org/Pages/default.aspx
  • Telephone Number: 501.686.2700

California

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 8-10 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 10-12 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $100 (temporary license), $300 (permanent license), $49 fingerprints
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: 30 CEU
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years on your birthday
  • Website: http://www.rn.ca.gov/
  • Telephone Number: 916.322.3350

Colorado

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 4-5 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $88 (nurse grads), $43 for licensure by endorsement, $164 renewal fee
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting:
  • Renewal Requirements: None
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years - By September 30
  • Website: https://www.colorado.gov/dora/Nursing
  • Telephone Number: 303.894.2430

Connecticut

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 2-3 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 5-7 business days - once all documents received
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $180 (includes the cost of a temporary license)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: No
  • Renewal Requirements: None
  • Renewal Date: Every year on the first day of the nurse’s birth month
  • Website: http://www.ct.gov/dph/cwp/view.asp?a=3143&q=388910
  • Telephone Number: 860.509.7603

Delaware

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $40 (temporary license), $170 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting:
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following:
    • 1,000 practice hours within the past 5 years, OR
    • 400 practice hours within the past 2 years, OR
    • Refresher course within the past 2 years AND
    • CEU-30 including 3 hours on substance abuse
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years either Feb. 28, May 31, or Sept. 30 of odd-numbered years, depending on when they earned their original credentials.
  • Website: http://www.professionallicensing.state.de.us/boards/nursing/index.shtml
  • Telephone Number: 302.744.4517

Florida

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 30 days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 30 days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $130
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 24 hours including 2 hours on the laws and rules that govern the practice of nursing in Florida. Starting 1/2019 2 hours of education on human trafficking
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://floridasnursing.gov/
  • Telephone Number: 850.245.4125

Georgia

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 15 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $75 and a $10 processing fee
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: See Georgia’s state page for more detailed information
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years, either odd-numbered or even-numbered years, depending on when they earned their credentials.Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.sos.state.ga.us/plb/rn
  • Telephone Number: 478.207.2440

Hawaii

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 15-20 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $146-$202
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: No
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following:
    • National certification or recertification related to the nurse’s practice role
    • 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 one hundred twenty 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
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years on June 30th of odd years
  • Website: http://www.hawaii.gov/dcca/areas/pvl/boards/nursing
  • Telephone Number: 808.586.3000

Idaho

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $25 (temporary license), $118.25 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: Starting 2019 License Renewal
    • Current nursing specialty certification OR 100 hours of practice or simulation practice
    • 15 contact hours of continuing education OR Completion of a minimum of 1 semester credit hour of post-licensure academic education OR Completion of a Board-recognized refresher course OR Participation in or presentation of a workshop, seminar, or conference
    • Acknowledged contributor to a published nursing-related article OR Teaching or developing a nursing-related course of instruction OR Participation in related professional activities
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years on August 31
  • Website: http://www2.state.id.us/ibn/index.htm
  • Telephone Number: 208.334.3110

Illinois

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 2 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): No (pending eNLC legislation)
  • Walk-Through: Yes
  • Cost: $25 (temporary license), $50 (permanent license), $50 application fee
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 20 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years by May 31 on even-numbered yearsate: Every 2 years by May 31
  • Website: http://www.idfpr.com/dpr/default.asp
  • Telephone Number: 1.800.823.3110

Indiana

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 2 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 2-4 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $50 (temporary license), $200 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcriptson Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: None
  • Renewal Date: Every odd year on October 31
  • Website: http://www.in.gov/pla/bandc/isbn/
  • Telephone Number: 317.234.2043

Iowa

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 5-10 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 5-10 business days but up to 8 weeks during high volume times
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $143.00 (Includes the $93 application fee and the $50 fee for the criminal history background check.)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 36 hours
    • License less than 3 years - 24 CEU
    • 2 hours child abuse training
  • Renewal Date: Every 3 years
  • Website: http://www.state.ia.us/government/nursing
  • Telephone Number: 515.281.3264

Kansas

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 7-10 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: Varies
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $125
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcriptslication Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 30 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.ksbn.org
  • Telephone Number: 785.296.4929

Kentucky

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 2 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $165 (temporary license), $125 (permanent license), $12 fingerprint fee
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcriptscation Requirements:
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following within the past 2 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
    • 7 contact hours plus satisfactory employment evaluation for CE
    • 3 contact hours of domestic violence education within the first 3 years after licensure (one time only), AND
    • 2 contact hours of HIV/AIDS education
  • Renewal Date: Every year - October 31
  • Website: http://www.kbn.ky.gov
  • Telephone Number: 502.429.3300

Louisiana

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: Yes
  • Cost: $239.25 (application for full licensure with a 90-day temporary endorsement permit), $139.25 (permanent license including $100.00 application fee and $39.25 CBC processing fee)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcriptation Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: Continuing Education Hours:
    • Full-time nurses: 5 CEU
    • Part-time nurses: 10 CEU
    • Inactive nurses: 15 CEU
  • Renewal Date: Every year between Oct. 31 and Jan. 31 each year
  • Website: http://www.lsbn.state.la.us
  • Telephone Number: 225.763.3570

Maine

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 1-2 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $75 (temporary license), $75 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, official transcripts, passport-style photo
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting:
  • Renewal Requirements: None
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years on the nurse’s birthdayal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.maine.gov/boardofnursing
  • Telephone Number: 207.287.1133

Maryland

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 48-72 hours
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $40 (temporary license), $100 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Transcripts, Social Security number, verification of no outstanding child support payments
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: 1000 practice-related hours OR board-approved refresher course
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.mbon.org/main.php
  • Telephone Number: 410.585.1900

Massachusetts

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): No (pending eNLC legislation)
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $230
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting:
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 15 hours (waived for first renewal)
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years nurses’ birthdays during even-numbered years
  • Website: http://www.mass.gov/dpl/boards/rn/
  • Telephone Number: 617.973.0800

Michigan

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks - Only applies to individuals licensed as a registered nurse in Canada
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): No (pending eNLC legislation)
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $64.25 plus an application fee of $80.30
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 25 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.michigan.gov/mdch/0,1607,7-132-27417_27529_27542—,00.html
  • Telephone Number: 517.335.0918

Minnesota

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 1 business day
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: Varies
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $138.25
  • Application Requirements: Fingerprinting, Proof of graduation
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: No
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU- 24 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.state.mn.us/portal/mn/jsp/home.do?agency=NursingBoard
  • Telephone Number: 612.617.2270

Mississippi

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 7-15 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $100
  • Application Requirements: Social Security number, proof of graduation, transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 20 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31 of every even-numbered year Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.msbn.state.ms.us
  • Telephone Number: 601.987.4189

Missouri

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: In person - Same day, Mail - 2 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 10-12 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: Yes
  • Cost: $90 (background check costs just under $45, and the application costs $45)
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: None
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years - Expires 4-30 of even-numbered years
  • Website: http://pr.mo.gov/nursing.asp
  • Telephone Number: 573.751.0681

Montana

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 30-60 days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $200 , $27.25 background check fee
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 24 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years before Dec. 31 during even-numbered year
  • Website: http://www.discoveringmontana.com/dli/nur
  • Telephone Number: 406.841.2340

Nebraska

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-5 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $123 Application Fee. $200 Examination Fee. $45.25 Criminal Background Check.
  • Application Requirements: Proof of citizenship, transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: No
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following (waived if licensed within the past 2 years):
    • 500 practice hours within the past 5 years AND 20 contact hours of board-approved CE within the past 2 years
    • Graduated between 2 and 5 years ago, and completed at least 20 contact hours of board-approved CE
    • Board-approved refresher course within the past 5 years
    • Current or new certification in nursing specialty
    • Portfolio demonstrating current continuing competency goals and evidence of professional activity to meet those goals
  • Renewal Date: On October 31st of odd-numbered year
  • Website: http://www.hhs.state.ne.us/crl/nursing/Rn-Lpn/rn-lpn.htm
  • Telephone Number: 402.471.2133

Nevada

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 7-10 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 2-4 months
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $105 (includes $5 fee for national database check)
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 30 hours, including 4 hours on bioterrorism
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://nevadanursingboard.org/
  • Telephone Number: 888.590.6726

New Hampshire

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $20 (temporary license), $148 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 30 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every year
  • Website: http://www.nh.gov/nursing/
  • Telephone Number: 603.271.2323

New Jersey

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $120 (temporary license), $320 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: The board approves only schools that achieve NCLEX passing rates of 75% or above.
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 30 hours, 1 CEU on organ and tissue donation
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/nur/Pages/default.aspx
  • Telephone Number: 973.504.6430

New Mexico

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 2-3 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $50 (temporary license), $110 (permanent license), $44 (fingerprinting card)
  • Application Requirements: Graduation verification, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 30 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://nmbon.sks.com/
  • Telephone Number: 505.841.8340

New York

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 6-8 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: No set timeline - issued once all documents received
  • Compact (eNLC): No (pending eNLC legislation)
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $35 (temporary license), $143 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Demonstrate good moral character, graduate from an approved program, and submit a passing NCLEX score
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: 3 CEU on infection control every 4 years, 2 CEU on child abuse recognition
  • Renewal Date: Every 3 years
  • Website: http://www.op.nysed.gov/nursing.htm
  • Telephone Number: 518.474.3817

North Carolina

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 1-2 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 6-8 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $75 application fee, $200 examination fee
  • Application Requirements: Transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: Must adhere to the following:
    • National certification or recertification by a national credentialing body recognized by the Board
    • 30 contact hours of continued education
    • Completion of a Board-approved refresher course
    • Completion of a minimum of two semester hours of post-licensure academic education related to nursing practice OR 15 contact hours of continued education and one of the following
    • Completion of a nursing project as principal investigator or co-investigator to include statement of problem, project objectives, methods, date of completion and summary of findings
    • Authoring or co-authoring a nursing-related article, paper, book or book chapter
    • Developing and conducting a nursing continuing education presentation or presentations totaling a minimum of five contact hours, including program brochure or course syllabi, objectives, date and location of presentation, and approximate number of attendees
    • 640 hours of active practice within previous 2 years.
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.ncbon.com
  • Telephone Number: 919.782.3211

North Dakota

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 3-5 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 7-10 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $170
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 12 hours and 400 practice hours within last 4 years.
  • Renewal Date: Every year
  • Website: http://www.ndbon.org
  • Telephone Number: 701.328.9777

Ohio

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): eNLC enacted. Implantation 1/1/2023
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $75
  • Application Requirements: Criminal background check, fingerprints, school officials must send letters to the state board verifying each candidate’s degree
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 24 hours including 1 hour Ohio nursing law
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.nursing.ohio.gov
  • Telephone Number: 614.466.3947

Oklahoma

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Varies
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: Varies
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $95 (temporary license), $85 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Answer questions about fitness to serve, Background check, Fingerprints
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 24 hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.youroklahoma.com/nursing
  • Telephone Number: 405.962.1800

Oregon

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 3-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $195 (endorsement), $160 (examination)
  • Application Requirements: Background check
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 7 hours on pain management and 960 practice hours (within 5 years)
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years and expire at midnight the day before your birthday
  • Website: http://www.osbn.state.or.us
  • Telephone Number: 503.731.4745

Pennsylvania

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 10-14 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 8-10 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): eNLC passed, awaiting implementation, no date set
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $70 (temporary license), $120 (permanent license without examination), $145 (permanent license with examination)
  • Application Requirements: Proof of graduation, Criminal and personal history questionnaire
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 30 hours, including 3 hours of DPW-approved training in child abuse recognition and reporting requirements
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years in either April or October
  • Website: http://www.dos.state.pa.us/nurse
  • Telephone Number: 717.783.7142

Rhode Island

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 1 week
  • Compact (eNLC): No (pending eNLC legislation)
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $135
  • Application Requirements: Official transcripts and degree verification to the state health department
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 10 hours including 2 hours of substance abuse education
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Nursing/Pages/default.aspx
  • Telephone Number: 401.222.5700

South Carolina

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 1 day
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 10-14 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: Yes
  • Cost: $90 (permanent license), $100 (permanent license with temporary license)
  • Application Requirements: Passport-style photograph, Notarized affidavit declaring sound moral character, Proof of either citizenship or legal immigration.
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following:
    • 30 contact hours of CEU
    • Certification or recertification by a national certifying body
    • Completion of an academic program in nursing or related field
    • Employer certification of competency and number of hours practiced
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.llr.state.sc.us/pol/nursing
  • Telephone Number: 803.896.4550

South Dakota

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 2-3 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: Yes
  • Cost: $25 (temporary license), $115 (permanent license), $43.25 background check fee
  • Application Requirements: Official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following:
    • 140 practice hours during any 12-month period within the past 6 years
    • 480 total practice hours within the past 6 years. OR
    • Board-approved refresher course
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.state.sd.us/doh/nursing
  • Telephone Number: 605.362.2760

Tennessee

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $115
  • Application Requirements: Proof of residency, criminal background check, passport-style photograph, confirm United States citizenship
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: Proof of practice
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years on the final day of their birth month
  • Website: http://www2.state.tn.us/health/Boards/Nursing/index.htm
  • Telephone Number: 615.532.3202

Texas

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 2 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 2 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $186
  • Application Requirements: Fingerprinting, FBI-run background check
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 20 hours in the area of practice including 2 hours on bioterrorism
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.bne.state.tx.us
  • Telephone Number: 512.305.7400

Utah

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 2-4 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $100
  • Application Requirements: Official transcripts, Fingerprints for background checks.
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following:
    • 400 practice hours OR 15 CEU hours
    • 200 practice hours OR 30 CEU hours
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.dopl.utah.gov/licensing/nurse.html
  • Telephone Number: 801.530.6628

Vermont

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 3-5 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $150 (examination fee), $60 (application fee)
  • Application Requirements: Social Security number, official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: No
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following:
    • 960 practice hours within the past 5 years
    • 400 practice hours within the past 2 years
    • Re-entry program within the past 5 years
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://www.vtprofessionals.org/opr1/nurses
  • Telephone Number: 802.828.2396

Virginia

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: Unavailable
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 4-6 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $190
  • Application Requirements: Criminal background check
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following activities:
    • 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.
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/
  • Telephone Number: 804.662.9909

Washington

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 3 weeks
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 3 weeks
  • Compact (eNLC): No
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $120
  • Application Requirements: Graduation verification
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU - 45 hours AND 531 hours of active nursing practice
  • Renewal Date: Every 3 years
  • Website: https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/hpqa1/hpS6/nursing/default.htm
  • Telephone Number: 360.236.4700

West Virginia

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 7-10 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 7-10 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $25 (temporary license), $70 (permanent license)
  • Application Requirements: Official transcripts
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: New graduates only
  • Renewal Requirements: CEU- 12 hours, including two hours on mental health conditions, one hour on drug diversion training and best practice prescribing of controlled substances
  • Renewal Date: Every year - October 31
  • Website: http://wvrnboard.wv.gov/
  • Telephone Number: 608.266.2811

Wisconsin

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 10-15 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: 10-15 business days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $10 (temporary license), $75 (new graduates), $82 (out of state nurses)
  • Application Requirements: N/A
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: No
  • Renewal Requirements: None
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years last day of February during even-numbered years
  • Website: http://drl.wi.gov/index.htm
  • Telephone Number:

Wyoming

  • Temporary License Time-Frame: 10-14 business days
  • Permanent License Time-Frame: Up to 90 days
  • Compact (eNLC): Yes
  • Walk-Through: No
  • Cost: $195
  • Application Requirements: Official transcripts, Fingerprint cards
  • Nursys: Yes
  • Livescan Fingerprinting: Yes
  • Renewal Requirements: One of the following:
    • 500 practice hours within the past 2 years
    • 1,600 practice hours within the past 5 years
    • 20 CE units in the past 2 years
    • Refresher or reentry program in the past 5 years
  • Renewal Date: Every 2 years
  • Website: http://nursing.state.wy.us
  • Telephone Number: 307.777.7601