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

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

Apply on Official Site

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	$190
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$50
Total	$320

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$140

Continuing Education Requirements

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).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

Virginia RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in Virginia?

Expect about $320 in total initial RN license costs in Virginia, including a $190 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Virginia Board of Nursing.

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

Virginia RNs must complete 15 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $140.

Is Virginia a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

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

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 6 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in Virginia?

The Virginia Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (804) 367-4515.