RN NLC Compact State

New Jersey RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in New Jersey

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$465

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

30 hours

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

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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

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and New Jersey State Police background check

Fingerprint-based criminal background checks

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$80
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$65
Total	$465

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$120

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General Nursing CE: 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).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

New Jersey RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in New Jersey?

Expect about $465 in total initial RN license costs in New Jersey, including a $80 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the New Jersey Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do RNs need to renew in New Jersey?

New Jersey RNs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $120.

Is New Jersey a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

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

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

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 New Jersey?

The New Jersey Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (973) 504-6430.