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Registered Nurse (RN) License in Florida

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Registered Nurse (RN) license in FL. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$200

Processing Time

4-8 Weeks

Exam Required

NCLEX-RN

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Registered Nurse (RN) license in Florida.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Registered Nurse (RN) training program in Florida.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your FL application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NCLEX-RN.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Florida licensing board and pay the $200 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-8 weeks in FL. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Florida starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the FL licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the NCLEX-RN. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Florida state board.

Requirements

To qualify for Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in Florida, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. FL mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the NCLEX-RN, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Florida regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Florida sets the Registered Nurse (RN) license application fee at $200. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in FL. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in Florida typically ranges from $200 to $400.

License Fee Calculator — Registered Nurse (RN) in Florida

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

License renewal for Registered Nurse (RN) professionals in Florida occurs on a 2-year cycle. FL charges a renewal fee of $150 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Florida at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Registered Nurse (RN) in FL

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Florida requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Florida offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. FL has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Florida also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Registered Nurse (RN) professionals.

Document Checklist — Registered Nurse (RN)

0 of 6 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Florida Registered Nurse (RN) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize FL Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts FL Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts FL Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts FL Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize FL Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize FL Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) FullCA accepts FL Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Iowa (IA) FullIA accepts FL Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Florida

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Tallahassee

2601 Blair Stone Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32399

(850) 487-1395

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Miami

401 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33128

(305) 377-5000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Orlando

400 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

(407) 836-7600

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tampa

601 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602

(813) 274-8211

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Jacksonville

117 W Duval St, Jacksonville, FL 32202

(904) 630-2489

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Florida Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Florida state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.