California RN License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in California
1 Education Requirements
Program Requirements
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Additional Requirements
- Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
- Program must include theory and clinical practice
- Foreign-educated nurses must have credentials evaluated by CGFNS
Graduate from a California Board of Registered Nursing approved nursing program or a nursing program approved by another state board of nursing
2 NCLEX-RN Examination
Exam Name
NCLEX-RN
Administered By
Pearson VUE
Exam Fee
$200
Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.
Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.
3 Background Check
4 Fees
Initial Licensure
| Application Fee | $300 |
| Examination Fee | $200 |
| Fingerprinting | $49 |
| $100 | |
| Total | $549 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $190 |
Continuing Education Requirements
Required Topics
- - General Nursing CE: 30 hours
- - Implicit Bias Training: 2 hours
Career Advancement
Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
State Board of Nursing
Free Tools
Stay Updated
Get California RN licensing updates, renewal reminders, and career tips delivered to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Other License Types in California
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 4 official sources • Last verified: December 2025