RN NLC Compact State

West Virginia RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in West Virginia

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$302

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

12 hours

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

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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

FBI and West Virginia State Police fingerprint background check

FBI and West Virginia State Police background check required

IdentoGO is exclusive Live Scan provider

Fingerprinting required for all applicants

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$70
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$50
Total	$302

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$90

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General Nursing CE: 12 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

West Virginia RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in West Virginia?

Expect about $302 in total initial RN license costs in West Virginia, including a $70 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the West Virginia Board of Registered Professional Nurses.

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

West Virginia RNs must complete 12 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $90.

Is West Virginia a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

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

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 2 to 4 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in West Virginia?

The West Virginia Board of Registered Professional Nurses handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (304) 744-0900.