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Registered Nurse (RN) License in Virginia

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Registered Nurse (RN) license in VA. 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 Virginia.

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your VA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NCLEX-RN.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Virginia starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the VA 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 Virginia state board.

Requirements

To qualify for Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in Virginia, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. VA 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 Virginia regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in Virginia starts at $200 for the application fee. VA requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in Virginia can add up to $75 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Registered Nurse (RN) in Virginia

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

Virginia requires Registered Nurse (RN) license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $150 in VA. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Virginia offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Registered Nurse (RN) in VA

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

Additional Information

Working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Virginia offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. VA 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. Virginia 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 Virginia 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 VA Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize VA Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize VA Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for VA license holders.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for VA license holders.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts VA Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts VA Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize VA Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Virginia

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

Richmond

9960 Mayland Dr, Richmond, VA 23233

(804) 367-8500

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Virginia Beach

2401 Courthouse Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23456

(757) 385-4242

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Norfolk

810 Union St, Norfolk, VA 23510

(757) 664-4000

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Arlington

2100 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

(703) 228-3000

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

Roanoke

215 Church Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24011

(540) 853-2000

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Virginia Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Virginia 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.