2026 data Idaho board official source

Idaho Registered Nurse License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Provides patient care, administers medications, and coordinates with physicians. Requires NCLEX-RN exam.

What the Idaho data shows for Registered Nurses

To practice as a registered nurse in Idaho, the state licensing board requires 2,135 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the NCLEX-RN examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Idaho's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Upfront cost is $90, with renewal running $90 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in this state, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

Reciprocity is available: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Idaho

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,135 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$99
Renewal Fee
$67
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$90
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$90
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required

License Reciprocity

NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Idaho licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Idaho?
Idaho requires 2135 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-RN), and an initial fee of $99. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Idaho?
To become a licensed registered nurse in Idaho, you must meet the state's requirements including 2135 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Idaho licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Idaho from another state?
Idaho has reciprocity provisions: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Idaho licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Idaho require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing?
Yes, Idaho requires a criminal background check as part of the registered nurse licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Idaho?
Licensed registered nurses in Idaho must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $67.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Idaho?
The initial licensing fee in Idaho is $90. The renewal fee is $90 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Idaho?
In Idaho, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 3 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

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