NLC Enacted — Implementation Pending

How to Get Your RN License in New York

The complete 2026 new-grad roadmap: New York State Education Department — Office of the Professions (Nursing) application, NCLEX-RN registration, fees, and timelines — all in one place.

Application Fee (approx.)
$143 (application + first registration)
NCLEX Registration
$200 (Pearson VUE)
Fingerprint / Background Check
Not required for most applicants
Temporary Permit
Yes — limited permit available for graduates awaiting exam results
Typical Processing Time
4–12 weeks — apply early

Fees and processing times are approximate as of mid-2026 and change periodically — always confirm current requirements with the New York State Education Department — Office of the Professions (Nursing) before applying.

Licensure by Exam: Step by Step

  1. Apply to the New York State Education Department — Office of the Professions (Nursing)

    Submit your application for licensure by examination, pay the application fee ($143 (application + first registration) approx.), and arrange for your nursing program to send your official transcripts. Most applicants do not need fingerprinting in New York, but verify current requirements with the board.

  2. Register with Pearson VUE for the NCLEX-RN

    Create an account at pearsonvue.com/nclex and pay the $200 registration fee. Use the same name that appears on your board application and your ID — mismatches delay testing.

  3. Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT)

    Once the board confirms your eligibility, Pearson VUE emails your ATT. It is valid for a limited window (typically 90 days), so schedule your exam as soon as it arrives.

  4. Schedule and take the NCLEX-RN

    Book your seat at a Pearson VUE testing center (or the earliest date that gives you enough prep time). The Next Generation NCLEX runs 85–150 items, up to 5 hours. Ready to prep? Our free NCLEX Prep Course covers every content area.

  5. Get your results and your license

    Official results come from the board, typically within a few business days (many states offer quick results in 48 hours via Pearson VUE). Once you pass, the New York State Education Department — Office of the Professions (Nursing) issues your RN license — verify it on the board's license lookup, then it's time to sign that first offer.

Nurse Licensure Compact Status

New York has enacted Nurse Licensure Compact legislation, but implementation is still in progress as of mid-2026. Until the NLC takes effect here, your New York license is a single-state license. Check the board and nursecompact.com for the current implementation status.

Current compact membership is maintained by NCSBN — check nursecompact.com for the latest map before making relocation decisions.

What It Costs (Approximate)

ItemCost
New York State Education Department — Office of the Professions (Nursing) application$143 (application + first registration)
NCLEX-RN registration (Pearson VUE)$200
Transcript fees (school-dependent)$10–$30

Nationally, most new grads spend $400–$900 total on licensure. All NCLEX fees are non-refundable.

Pass the NCLEX the first time.

Our free NCLEX Prep Course covers all eight client needs categories with practice questions and rationales — built for new grads by The RN Network.

Start the Free NCLEX Prep Course →
See New York RN salaries →   ·   Browse New York nursing jobs →