Registered Nurse License in Vermont
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Vermont, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and complete a background check. Vermont is an NLC compact state. Notably, Vermont does NOT require continuing education for renewal. Estimated costs are approximately $390.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $390 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse registration in Vermont
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $90
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $135
- Total Estimated Cost
- $390
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse license in Vermont. 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 Vermont licensing board.
Registered Nurse Salary in Vermont
Entry Level
$70,840
Median
$85,150
Experienced
$117,310
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 Vermont.
- 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 Licensing in Vermont: What to Know
Vermont requires a degree, NCLEX-RN, and a background check. Notably, Vermont does NOT require continuing education for RN renewal, making it one of the few states without a CE requirement. Vermont is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Vermont Secretary of State's Nursing Board oversees licensure. The University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington is the state's largest employer and healthcare system. Vermont's rural character and small population create nursing shortages in many communities, particularly in the Northeast Kingdom region.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse license cost in Vermont?
- The estimated total cost is $390, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse license in Vermont?
- 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 Vermont?
- 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.