RN NLC Compact State

Texas RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Texas

Processing Time
2-4 weeks
Total Initial Cost
$378
Renewal Period
2 years
CE Hours Required
20 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 Texas Board of Nursing approved nursing program or equivalent approved program from another jurisdiction

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

FBI criminal background check via fingerprinting
FBI and Texas DPS background check
Fingerprints submitted through IdentoGO
Results sent directly to Texas BON

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee $110
Examination Fee $200
Fingerprinting $43
$25
Total $378

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years) $68

Continuing Education Requirements

20
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle

Required Topics

  • - General Nursing CE: 20 hours
  • - Targeted CE (if applicable): 0 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
Texas Board of Nursing
Phone
(512) 305-7400

Verify a License

Look up any Texas nursing license status online.

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NLC Compact Member

Texas 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 4 official sources Last verified: December 2025