RN NLC Compact State

Florida RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Florida

Processing Time

8-24 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$392

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

24 hours

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

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 be approved by state board or equivalent
Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

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

Electronic fingerprinting via Livescan

FBI and Florida FDLE background check

Electronic fingerprinting via Livescan

ORI # EDOH4420Z

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$110
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$82
Total	$392

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$75

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General/Elective Nursing CE: 16 hours
- Prevention of Medical Errors: 2 hours
- Florida Laws and Rules: 2 hours
- Human Trafficking: 2 hours
- Recognizing Impairment in the Workplace: 2 hours
- HIV/AIDS: 1 hours
- Domestic Violence: 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

Florida RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in Florida?

Expect about $392 in total initial RN license costs in Florida, including a $110 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Florida Board of Nursing.

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

Florida RNs must complete 24 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $75.

Is Florida a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

Yes. Florida is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so eligible nurses with a multistate license can practice in Florida and every other NLC state without extra licenses.

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 8 to 24 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in Florida?

The Florida Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications.