NP Advanced Practice

Iowa Nurse Practitioner License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Iowa

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$81

Renewal Period

3 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in Iowa is administered by the Iowa Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Iowa.

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

Full practice authority without physician oversight

Prescriptive Authority: Full independent authority; Schedule II-V

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Nurse Practitioner program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

ANCC or AANPCB

Required

Yes

American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board

3 Background Check

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and state background check required

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$81
Total	$81

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 3 years)

$81

Prerequisites

To become a Nurse Practitioner in Iowa, you must first hold an active RN license. Iowa is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Iowa RN Requirements

Iowa NP License FAQs

How much does an NP license cost in Iowa?

Expect about $81 in total initial NP license costs in Iowa, including a $81 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Does Iowa require continuing education for NP renewal?

No. Iowa does not require continuing education hours to renew an NP license. The renewal fee is $81.

How long does it take to get an NP license in Iowa?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues NP licenses in Iowa?

The Iowa Board of Nursing handles NP license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 515-281-3255.