RN NLC Compact State

Pennsylvania RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Pennsylvania

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$345

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

30 hours

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

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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

CHRC (Criminal History Record Check)

CHRC required for all applicants

Child abuse clearance training required

FBI background check if out-of-state

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$95
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$50
Total	$345

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$122

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General Nursing CE: 28 hours
- Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting: 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

Pennsylvania RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in Pennsylvania?

Expect about $345 in total initial RN license costs in Pennsylvania, including a $95 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

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

Pennsylvania RNs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $122.

Is Pennsylvania a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

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

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

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 Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (717) 783-7142.