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RN NLC Compact State

Idaho RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Idaho

Processing Time
1-2 weeks
Total Initial Cost
$298.25
Renewal Period
2 years
CE Hours Required
15 hours

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

LiveScan or fingerprint cards
FBI and Idaho State Police background check
LiveScan or mail fingerprint cards

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee $98.25
Examination Fee $200
Fingerprinting $0
Total $298.25

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years) $70

Continuing Education Requirements

15
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle

Required Topics

  • - Continuing Education (Education pathway): 15 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

Official Name
Idaho Board of Nursing
Phone
(208) 334-3233

Verify a License

Look up any Idaho nursing license status online.

Verify License

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Compare Idaho RN License

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

NLC Compact Member

Idaho 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 2 official sources Last verified: February 2026