How to Become a Registered Nurse in California
Becoming a registered nurse in California takes education, an exam and an application. Here is the exact breakdown for California, sourced from the official board.
How do I become a registered nurse in California?
To become a registered nurse in California you must complete Graduation from an approved ADN, BSN, or diploma RN program, pass the NCLEX-RN via Pearson VUE, meet the experience requirement (None required), cover the fees (Application $150, license fee $100, renewal $120). Licensing is handled by California Board of Registered Nursing. Confirm current rules with the official board before applying.
Requirements at a glance
- Pre-licensing education
- Graduation from an approved ADN, BSN, or diploma RN program
- Exam requirements
- NCLEX-RN via Pearson VUE
- Experience
- None required
- Fees & costs
- Application $150, license fee $100, renewal $120
- Reciprocity
- California is not a compact state; apply for endorsement
- Renewal
- 2-year cycle, 30 hours CE
Exam prep for the Registered Nurse license exam
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FAQ
What are the education requirements to become a registered nurse in California?
Graduation from an approved ADN, BSN, or diploma RN program. This is the requirement published by the state.
What exam do I take to become a registered nurse in California?
You take the NCLEX-RN via Pearson VUE. Sign up through the approved testing vendor used by the state.
How much does a registered nurse license cost in California?
Application $150, license fee $100, renewal $120. Application, education and exam fees are set by the state board and can change.
How often do I renew my rn license in California?
2-year cycle, 30 hours CE.
All states for this license
Licensing rules can change. This page is a summary, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the official California Board of Registered Nursing before applying.