REGISTERED NURSE License in Tennessee
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Tennessee, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and complete a background check. Tennessee is an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $400. Nashville is one of the nation's top healthcare industry hubs.
- 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 registration in Tennessee
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $100
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $60
- Total Estimated Cost
- $400
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your REGISTERED NURSE license in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee licensing board.
REGISTERED NURSE Salary in Tennessee
Entry Level
$59,540
Median
$79,030
Experienced
$102,040
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 Tennessee.
- 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: ~$100.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
REGISTERED NURSE Licensing in Tennessee: What to Know
Tennessee requires a degree, NCLEX-RN, background check, and CE for renewal. Tennessee is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Division of Health Related Boards under the Department of Health oversees nursing licensure. Nashville is a major healthcare hub — HCA Healthcare (the nation's largest for-profit hospital chain), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and numerous other health companies are headquartered there. The state's healthcare industry concentration makes Tennessee one of the best states for nursing career opportunities and advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a REGISTERED NURSE license cost in Tennessee?
- 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 license in Tennessee?
- 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 Tennessee?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare REGISTERED NURSE requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.