Iowa RN License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Iowa
1 Education Requirements
Minimum Degree
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
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
Passing Standard
Pass/Fail (Adaptive)
Tip: Register for the NCLEX 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
4 Fees
Initial Licensure
| Application Fee | $93 |
| Examination Fee | $200 |
| Fingerprinting | $50 |
| Total | $343 |
Total includes application ($93), NCLEX ($200), and fingerprinting ($50). Iowa is an NLC compact member state.
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 3 years) | $99 |
Continuing Education Requirements
Required Topics
- • General Nursing CE: 36 hours
State Board of Nursing
Free Tools
Stay Updated
Get Iowa RN licensing updates, renewal reminders, and career tips delivered to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
NLC Compact Member
Iowa 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 3 official sources • Last verified: January 2025