Registered Nurse / Ohio
2026 data Ohio board official source

Ohio Registered Nurse License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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

What the Ohio data shows for Registered Nurses

Ohio sets the entry bar for registered nurses at 2,514 training hours and a passing score on NCLEX-RN. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Ohio's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Upfront cost is $75, with renewal running $75 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Ohio

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,514 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$165
Renewal Fee
$114
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$75
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$75
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
24 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

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Compare all states for Registered Nurse All Ohio licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Ohio licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Ohio? ▼
In Ohio, the license path calls for 2514 education/training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-RN, and a $165 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Ohio? ▼
Certification as a registered nurse in Ohio means clearing the state's checklist: 2514 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Ohio licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Ohio from another state? ▼
Registered Nurse licenses generally reciprocate as follows: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Ohio licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Ohio require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the registered nurse licensing process in Ohio. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Ohio? ▼
Ohio ties continued registered nurse licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $114 renewal fee.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Ohio? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Ohio is $75. The renewal fee is $75 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Ohio? ▼
In Ohio, 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.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.