Registered Nurse (RN) License in Kansas
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Kansas, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and complete a background check. Kansas is an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $375. CE is required for biennial renewal.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $375 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse (RN) registration in Kansas
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $75
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $55
- Total Estimated Cost
- $375
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse (RN) license in Kansas. 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 Kansas licensing board.
Registered Nurse (RN) Salary in Kansas
Entry Level
$60,630
Median
$78,060
Experienced
$97,870
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 Kansas.
- 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: ~$75.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing in Kansas: What to Know
Kansas requires a degree from an approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN, and a background check. CE is required for renewal. Kansas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Kansas State Board of Nursing oversees licensure. Kansas City's healthcare sector spans both Kansas and Missouri, making the NLC compact privilege particularly valuable. Rural western Kansas faces acute nursing shortages. The state includes Clinical Nurse Specialists under the RN category. Kansas has relatively low licensing costs compared to coastal states.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse (RN) license cost in Kansas?
- The estimated total cost is $375, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse (RN) license in Kansas?
- 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 Kansas?
- 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.