Registered Nurse License in Ohio
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Ohio, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and complete a background check. Ohio is an NLC compact state. Contact the Ohio Board of Nursing for current fees. Estimated costs are approximately $375.
- 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 registration in Ohio
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $75
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $65
- Total Estimated Cost
- $375
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse license in Ohio. 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 Ohio licensing board.
Registered Nurse Salary in Ohio
Entry Level
$66,060
Median
$81,250
Experienced
$103,650
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 in Ohio.
- 1
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 2
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$75.
- 3
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse Licensing in Ohio: What to Know
Ohio's COS listing directs applicants to the licensing authority or the Ohio Career Information System (OCIS) for details. A background check is required. Ohio is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Ohio Board of Nursing oversees licensure. Ohio's major healthcare systems — Cleveland Clinic, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and UC Health — are among the nation's most prestigious. The state's diverse healthcare landscape spans major urban systems to rural Appalachian communities with significant nursing shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse license cost in Ohio?
- 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 license in Ohio?
- 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 license in Ohio?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.