RN NLC Compact State

Virginia RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Virginia

Processing Time
4-6 weeks
Total Initial Cost
$320
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

FBI and Virginia State Police fingerprint background check
FBI and Virginia State Police background check required
Fingerprinting via Fieldprint VA
FAQ available at board website

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee $70
Examination Fee $200
Fingerprinting $50
Total $320

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years) $70

Continuing Education Requirements

15
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle

Required Topics

  • - General Nursing CE: 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
Virginia Board of Nursing
Phone
(804) 367-4515

Verify a License

Look up any Virginia nursing license status online.

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NLC Compact Member

Virginia 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 6 official sources Last verified: January 2025