How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in 2026: Complete Licensing Guide

Registered Nurses (RNs) are the backbone of the U.S. healthcare system, providing direct patient care in hospitals, clinics, schools, and communities across the country. Across the 51 states we track, 41 participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), and 1 require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for initial licensure.

This guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a Registered Nurse in 2026 -- from education and exam requirements to state-by-state licensing fees, the Nurse Licensure Compact, and continuing education.

Quick Overview

Complete an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN) from an accredited institution
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure examination for registered nurses
41 of 51 states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing multistate practice
1 states require a BSN degree for licensure; others accept an ADN
39 states require continuing education (CE) for license renewal, averaging 23.9 hours
Average initial licensing fees: $374

What Does an RN Do?

Registered Nurses assess patient health, develop and implement care plans, administer medications and treatments, educate patients and families, and coordinate care with physicians and other healthcare providers. RNs work in a wide range of settings:

Hospitals: Medical-surgical units, intensive care, emergency departments, labor and delivery, and specialty floors
Outpatient clinics: Physician offices, surgery centers, dialysis centers, and specialty practices
Community and public health: Schools, correctional facilities, home health agencies, and public health departments
Long-term care: Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and rehabilitation centers
Specialty and advanced roles: Travel nursing, case management, nursing education, and informatics

The RN designation requires a state-issued license and is distinct from Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). RNs have broader scope of practice than LPNs and serve as the primary nursing workforce in most healthcare settings.

Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program

To qualify for RN licensure, you must graduate from a nursing program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). There are two main educational pathways:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The ADN is a 2-3 year program typically offered at community colleges. It is the faster and more affordable path to RN licensure and remains the entry-level credential in most states. ADN-prepared nurses are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and practice as full RNs upon passing. Key considerations:

Duration: Typically 2-3 years, including prerequisites
Cost: Generally lower tuition than BSN programs, especially at community colleges
Career path: Many ADN nurses pursue RN-to-BSN bridge programs after gaining work experience
Limitations: Some employers, particularly Magnet hospitals, prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses for hire or advancement

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The BSN is a 4-year degree offered at colleges and universities. It provides a broader foundation in nursing science, research, leadership, and community health. BSN programs are increasingly preferred by employers and required by some states. Key considerations:

Duration: Typically 4 years, or 1-2 additional years for RN-to-BSN bridge programs
Magnet hospitals: Many Magnet-designated hospitals require 80% or more of nursing staff to hold a BSN
Advancement: Required for most APRN programs (NP, CRNA, CNM, CNS)
State requirements: 1 states currently require a BSN for initial RN licensure

States Requiring a BSN for Licensure

New York

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

All states require candidates to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) before receiving an RN license. The exam is developed and administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) at Pearson VUE testing centers nationwide.

As of 2023, the NCLEX-RN uses Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) format, which emphasizes clinical judgment and decision-making. Key facts about the exam:

Format: Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) -- the number of questions adapts based on your performance, ranging from 85 to 145 items under NGN
Content: Safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity
Passing standard: Set by NCSBN and updated periodically; the exam uses a pass/fail determination based on a logistic model
Registration: Submit your application to your state board of nursing, then register with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee
Retakes: Most states allow retakes after 45-90 days; check your state's policy for limits on attempts

The overall NCLEX-RN pass rate for first-time U.S.-educated candidates is approximately 80-85%. Thorough preparation using NCLEX review materials, question banks, and practice exams is strongly recommended.

State-by-State RN Requirements

The table below summarizes key RN licensing requirements across all 51 states we track. Click any state for the full breakdown.

State	Credential	NCLEX Required	NLC Member	BSN Required	CE Hours	Fees
Alabama	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$372.50-$472.50
Alaska	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$575
Arizona	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$550
Arkansas	RN	Yes	Yes	No	15	$336.25
California	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$549-$999
Colorado	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$444.50
Connecticut	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$430
Delaware	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$381+
District of Columbia	RN	Yes	No	No	24	$437
Florida	RN	Yes	Yes	No	27	$360-$390
Georgia	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$290
Hawaii	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$544-$559
Idaho	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$318.25
Illinois	RN	Yes	No	No	20	$317
Indiana	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$280
Iowa	RN	Yes	Yes	No	36	$343
Kansas	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$348-$373
Kentucky	RN	Yes	Yes	No	14	$394
Louisiana	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	~$350
Maine	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	~$325
Maryland	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	~$437
Massachusetts	RN	Yes	Yes	No	15	$430
Michigan	RN	Yes	No	No	25	~$475
Minnesota	RN	Yes	No	No	24	$337
Mississippi	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$375
Missouri	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$244.80
Montana	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$345
Nebraska	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$368
Nevada	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$350
New Hampshire	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$398
New Jersey	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$459
New Mexico	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$354
New York	RN	Yes	No	Yes	3	$343
North Carolina	RN	Yes	Yes	No	15	$313
North Dakota	RN	Yes	Yes	No	12	$365
Ohio	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$322.25
Oklahoma	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$335
Oregon	RN	Yes	No	No	0	$369+
Pennsylvania	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$317-$335
Rhode Island	RN	Yes	Yes	No	10	$365
South Carolina	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$331
South Dakota	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$343
Tennessee	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$338
Texas	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$314
Utah	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$290
Vermont	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$420
Virginia	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$426-$429
Washington	RN	Yes	Yes	No	8	$372-$386
West Virginia	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$270
Wisconsin	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$311
Wyoming	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$395

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement among participating states that allows RNs and LPNs/LVNs to hold a single multistate license and practice in any NLC member state without obtaining additional licenses. Currently, 41 of 51 states participate in the NLC.

To obtain a multistate license, you must:

Declare your primary state of residence as an NLC member state
Meet all licensure requirements for that state
Apply for licensure through your home state's board of nursing
Your multistate license is automatically valid in all other NLC member states

If you move to another NLC state, you must apply for a new license in your new home state within 60 days of establishing residency. The NLC is especially valuable for travel nurses and those who live near state borders.

NLC Member States

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

39 of 51 states require RNs to complete continuing education (CE) hours as a condition of license renewal. The average requirement among states with CE mandates is 23.9 hours per renewal cycle. Requirements vary significantly by state:

Hours required: Typically range from 15 to 30 hours per renewal period (usually 2 years)
Subject areas: Many states specify required topics such as pharmacology, infection control, pain management, or cultural competency
Delivery formats: Online courses, live seminars, webinars, hospital in-service training, and academic coursework are commonly accepted
Documentation: Retain CE certificates for at least 3-4 years, as states may audit licensees to verify compliance

States with CE Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an RN?

The timeline depends on your educational path. An ADN typically takes 2-3 years (including prerequisites), while a BSN takes 4 years. After graduation, you must apply for licensure, pass the NCLEX-RN, and receive your license -- a process that usually takes 4-8 weeks. Accelerated BSN programs for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree can be completed in 12-18 months.

How much does it cost to become an RN?

Costs vary widely. Community college ADN programs can cost $10,000-$30,000 total, while BSN programs at public universities typically range from $40,000-$80,000. Additional costs include the NCLEX-RN exam fee ($200), state licensure application fees (averaging $374), background check fees, and NCLEX review course costs ($100-$500).

Do I need a BSN to become an RN?

In most states, no -- an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is sufficient for initial RN licensure. However, 1 states require a BSN for licensure, so check your state's specific requirements. Many nurses earn their ADN first, gain work experience, and complete an RN-to-BSN bridge program while working.

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate?

The overall first-time pass rate for U.S.-educated candidates is approximately 80-85% as of 2024. Pass rates vary by nursing program and preparation. Thorough use of NCLEX-specific review resources, question banks, and practice exams significantly improves outcomes.

What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?

The NLC is an agreement that allows RNs to hold a single multistate license valid in all 41 member states. It is particularly useful for travel nurses and nurses who live near state borders. To qualify, you must establish your primary residence in an NLC member state and meet that state's licensure requirements.

Can I become an RN with a criminal record?

Possibly, depending on the state and the nature of the offense. Most state boards of nursing review applications on a case-by-case basis. Offenses related to drugs, patient abuse, or fraud are more likely to result in denial. Many states allow applicants to request a preliminary determination before investing in education. Background checks are required in all states as part of the licensure process.

How do I renew my RN license?

RN licenses must be renewed periodically -- typically every 1-2 years depending on the state. Renewal requires submitting a renewal application, paying a renewal fee, and in 39 states, completing the required CE hours. Some states also require proof of practice hours or other attestations. Check your state board of nursing's website for exact renewal deadlines and requirements.

Sources

Education, exam, licensure, and fee data are sourced from official state boards of nursing and national nursing organizations.

Individual state boards of nursing websites (cited on each state page).
NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing) -- ncsbn.org
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) administrator information -- ncsbn.org/nlc
ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) -- acenursing.org
CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) -- aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation

Data was last verified in March 2026. Requirements can change as states update their regulations. Always confirm current requirements with your state's board of nursing before beginning the licensing process.

Quick Overview

Complete an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN) from an accredited institution
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure examination for registered nurses
41 of 51 states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing multistate practice
1 states require a BSN degree for licensure; others accept an ADN
39 states require continuing education (CE) for license renewal, averaging 23.9 hours
Average initial licensing fees: $374

What Does an RN Do?

Hospitals: Medical-surgical units, intensive care, emergency departments, labor and delivery, and specialty floors
Outpatient clinics: Physician offices, surgery centers, dialysis centers, and specialty practices
Community and public health: Schools, correctional facilities, home health agencies, and public health departments
Long-term care: Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and rehabilitation centers
Specialty and advanced roles: Travel nursing, case management, nursing education, and informatics

Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Duration: Typically 2-3 years, including prerequisites
Cost: Generally lower tuition than BSN programs, especially at community colleges
Career path: Many ADN nurses pursue RN-to-BSN bridge programs after gaining work experience
Limitations: Some employers, particularly Magnet hospitals, prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses for hire or advancement

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Duration: Typically 4 years, or 1-2 additional years for RN-to-BSN bridge programs
Magnet hospitals: Many Magnet-designated hospitals require 80% or more of nursing staff to hold a BSN
Advancement: Required for most APRN programs (NP, CRNA, CNM, CNS)
State requirements: 1 states currently require a BSN for initial RN licensure

States Requiring a BSN for Licensure

New York

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

As of 2023, the NCLEX-RN uses Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) format, which emphasizes clinical judgment and decision-making. Key facts about the exam:

Format: Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) -- the number of questions adapts based on your performance, ranging from 85 to 145 items under NGN
Content: Safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity
Passing standard: Set by NCSBN and updated periodically; the exam uses a pass/fail determination based on a logistic model
Registration: Submit your application to your state board of nursing, then register with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee
Retakes: Most states allow retakes after 45-90 days; check your state's policy for limits on attempts

State-by-State RN Requirements

The table below summarizes key RN licensing requirements across all 51 states we track. Click any state for the full breakdown.

State	Credential	NCLEX Required	NLC Member	BSN Required	CE Hours	Fees
Alabama	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$372.50-$472.50
Alaska	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$575
Arizona	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$550
Arkansas	RN	Yes	Yes	No	15	$336.25
California	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$549-$999
Colorado	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$444.50
Connecticut	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$430
Delaware	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$381+
District of Columbia	RN	Yes	No	No	24	$437
Florida	RN	Yes	Yes	No	27	$360-$390
Georgia	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$290
Hawaii	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$544-$559
Idaho	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$318.25
Illinois	RN	Yes	No	No	20	$317
Indiana	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$280
Iowa	RN	Yes	Yes	No	36	$343
Kansas	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$348-$373
Kentucky	RN	Yes	Yes	No	14	$394
Louisiana	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	~$350
Maine	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	~$325
Maryland	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	~$437
Massachusetts	RN	Yes	Yes	No	15	$430
Michigan	RN	Yes	No	No	25	~$475
Minnesota	RN	Yes	No	No	24	$337
Mississippi	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$375
Missouri	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$244.80
Montana	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$345
Nebraska	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$368
Nevada	RN	Yes	No	No	30	$350
New Hampshire	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$398
New Jersey	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$459
New Mexico	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$354
New York	RN	Yes	No	Yes	3	$343
North Carolina	RN	Yes	Yes	No	15	$313
North Dakota	RN	Yes	Yes	No	12	$365
Ohio	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$322.25
Oklahoma	RN	Yes	Yes	No	24	$335
Oregon	RN	Yes	No	No	0	$369+
Pennsylvania	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$317-$335
Rhode Island	RN	Yes	Yes	No	10	$365
South Carolina	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$331
South Dakota	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$343
Tennessee	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$338
Texas	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$314
Utah	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$290
Vermont	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$420
Virginia	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$426-$429
Washington	RN	Yes	Yes	No	8	$372-$386
West Virginia	RN	Yes	Yes	No	30	$270
Wisconsin	RN	Yes	Yes	No	0	$311
Wyoming	RN	Yes	Yes	No	20	$395

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

To obtain a multistate license, you must:

Declare your primary state of residence as an NLC member state
Meet all licensure requirements for that state
Apply for licensure through your home state's board of nursing
Your multistate license is automatically valid in all other NLC member states

NLC Member States

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

Hours required: Typically range from 15 to 30 hours per renewal period (usually 2 years)
Subject areas: Many states specify required topics such as pharmacology, infection control, pain management, or cultural competency
Delivery formats: Online courses, live seminars, webinars, hospital in-service training, and academic coursework are commonly accepted
Documentation: Retain CE certificates for at least 3-4 years, as states may audit licensees to verify compliance

States with CE Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an RN?

How much does it cost to become an RN?

Do I need a BSN to become an RN?

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate?

What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?

Can I become an RN with a criminal record?

How do I renew my RN license?

Sources

Education, exam, licensure, and fee data are sourced from official state boards of nursing and national nursing organizations.

Individual state boards of nursing websites (cited on each state page).
NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing) -- ncsbn.org
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) administrator information -- ncsbn.org/nlc
ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) -- acenursing.org
CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) -- aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation

What Does an RN Do?

Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

States Requiring a BSN for Licensure

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

State-by-State RN Requirements

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

NLC Member States

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

States with CE Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an RN?

How much does it cost to become an RN?

Do I need a BSN to become an RN?

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate?

What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?

Can I become an RN with a criminal record?

How do I renew my RN license?

Sources

Exam Prep Books

Professional Supplies

Ready to Become a Registered Nurse?

What Does an RN Do?

Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

States Requiring a BSN for Licensure

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

State-by-State RN Requirements

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

NLC Member States

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

States with CE Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an RN?

How much does it cost to become an RN?

Do I need a BSN to become an RN?

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate?

What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?

Can I become an RN with a criminal record?

How do I renew my RN license?

Sources

Exam Prep Books

Professional Supplies

Ready to Become a Registered Nurse?