Registered Nurse / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia Registered Nurse License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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

What the Virginia data shows for Registered Nurses

To practice as a registered nurse in Virginia, the state licensing board requires 2,405 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-RN. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Budget $190 to get started, plus $75 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 4 weeks once your application is complete. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

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

Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,405 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$146
Renewal Fee
$101
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
$190
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$75
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
4 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
30 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Virginia? ▼
Virginia requires 2405 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-RN), and an initial fee of $146. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Virginia? ▼
To become a licensed registered nurse in Virginia, you must meet the state's requirements including 2405 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Virginia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Virginia 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 Virginia licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Virginia require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
Virginia does require a background check before issuing a registered nurse license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Virginia? ▼
Licensed registered nurses in Virginia must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $101.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Virginia? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Virginia is $190. The renewal fee is $75 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 4 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Virginia? ▼
In Virginia, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 4 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.