RN NLC Compact State

Kentucky RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Kentucky

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$355

Renewal Period

1 years

CE Hours Required

14 hours

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

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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

IdentoGO fingerprinting

FBI and Kentucky State Police background check

IdentoGO fingerprinting with service code 27GKJR

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$125
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$50
Total	$355

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 1 years)

$65

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

1 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General Nursing CE: 14 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

Kentucky RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in Kentucky?

Expect about $355 in total initial RN license costs in Kentucky, including a $125 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Kentucky Board of Nursing.

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

Kentucky RNs must complete 14 continuing education hours each annual renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $65.

Is Kentucky a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

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

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (502) 429-3300.