California RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in California

Processing Time

10-12 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$549

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

30 hours

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

Apply on Official Site

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

Live Scan fingerprinting

FBI and California DOJ background check

Must be completed at a Live Scan location

Results sent directly to BRN

Out-of-state applicants may submit hard card fingerprints

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

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

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).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

California RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in California?

Expect about $549 in total initial RN license costs in California, including a $300 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the California Board of Registered Nursing.

How many CE hours do RNs need to renew in California?

California RNs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $190.

Is California a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

No. California is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, so nurses licensed elsewhere must apply for a California license by endorsement.

How long does it take to get an RN license in California?

Most complete applications are processed in about 10 to 12 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in California?

The California Board of Registered Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (916) 322-3350.