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RN NLC Compact State

Georgia RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Georgia

Processing Time
2-4 weeks
Total Initial Cost
$282
Renewal Period
2 years
CE Hours Required
30 hours

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

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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

Fingerprinting via GAPS/Idemia
FBI and Georgia GBI background check
Fingerprinting via GAPS/Idemia
Results typically within 72 hours

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee $40
Examination Fee $200
Fingerprinting $42
Total $282

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years) $65

Continuing Education Requirements

30
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle

Required Topics

  • - General Nursing CE OR 500 hours practice: 30 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).

Georgia RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in Georgia?

Expect about $282 in total initial RN license costs in Georgia, including a $40 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Georgia Board of Nursing.

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

Georgia RNs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $65.

Is Georgia a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

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

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 2 to 4 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in Georgia?

The Georgia Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (844) 753-7825.

State Board of Nursing

Official Name
Georgia Board of Nursing
Phone
(844) 753-7825

Verify a License

Look up any Georgia nursing license status online.

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See how Georgia stacks up against other states for RN licensing fees, timelines, and requirements.

NLC Compact Member

Georgia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. With a multistate license, you can practice in multiple states.

Learn about NLC benefits →

Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team

Based on 5 official sources • Last verified: July 2026