Registered Nurse (RN) License in Idaho
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Idaho, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, submit fingerprints for a background check, and pass the NCLEX-RN. Idaho is an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $400. Licenses renew bi-annually with CE requirements.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $400 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse (RN) registration in Idaho
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $90
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $90
- Total Estimated Cost
- $400
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse (RN) license in Idaho. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Idaho licensing board.
Registered Nurse (RN) Salary in Idaho
Entry Level
$65,690
Median
$86,100
Experienced
$118,460
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in Idaho.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$90.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing in Idaho: What to Know
Idaho clearly outlines the RN licensing steps: 1) Graduate from an approved nursing program, 2) Submit application with required documents and fees, 3) Submit fingerprints and pass a criminal background check, 4) Pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. Licenses renew bi-annually. Idaho is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Idaho Board of Nursing oversees all RN licensing. Boise's growing healthcare sector drives demand, while rural Idaho communities face significant nursing shortages. CE is required for renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse (RN) license cost in Idaho?
- The estimated total cost is $400, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse (RN) license in Idaho?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Registered Nurse (RN) license in Idaho?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse (RN) requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.