Licensure
What US RN licensure asks of you
Requirements differ by state, but the sequence is remarkably consistent. Here is what to prepare, what is mandatory, and what it usually costs.
Documents
Your document checklist
- Passport and current photo identification
- Nursing diploma, degree certificate and full transcripts
- Current nursing license or registration from your home country
- Proof of clinical hours (theory and practice breakdown)
- Name change documents, if applicable
- English proficiency results (IELTS, TOEFL iBT, OET or PTE)
- Credential evaluation report (CGFNS CES or state-accepted agency)
- Fingerprints and criminal background check
- Visa screen certificate (only if you will work in the US)
Mandatory & recommended courses
Coursework you may need
State-required coursework
Many states require short courses before or shortly after licensure, for example child abuse recognition, human trafficking awareness, infection control, or implicit bias training.
English proficiency
Required by most states unless your nursing education was delivered and examined in English in an approved country. Some states, such as New York, do not require an English exam. Minimum scores differ by state.
Refresher or bridging courses
If your credential evaluation shows missing content (often obstetrics, pediatrics or psychiatric nursing) you may need to complete those hours before approval.
NCLEX-RN review with BridgeRN
We connect you with vetted NCLEX-RN review courses, question banks and free study material through our partner network, with member discounts, so you can prepare with providers we have reviewed for internationally educated nurses.
Budget
Typical costs, stage by stage
These are typical US-dollar ranges to help you plan. Always confirm current fees with each agency before paying.
| Stage | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Credential evaluation report | $375 – $500 |
| Board of nursing application | $75 – $300 |
| NCLEX-RN registration | $200 |
| International test center fee | $150 |
| English proficiency exam | $180 – $300 |
| Visa screen certificate | $450 – $600 |
| Fingerprints & background check | $40 – $100 |
| Review course (with our discount) | $60 – $400 |