Florida Nursing License

Florida is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. One multistate license covers Florida — no separate application if your compact home state issued it.

How to get your Florida nursing license

  1. Complete an approved nursing program (RN or LPN/LVN).
  2. Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN examination.
  3. Apply to the Florida Board of Nursing for licensure by examination or endorsement.
  4. Complete the required criminal background check and pay licensure fees.
  5. If your primary residence is Florida, you may apply for a multistate (compact) license.

Florida licensing at a glance

Initial license fee$110
Renewal fee$75
Continuing education24 hours / 2 years
Compact (NLC) memberYes

The $110 fee is the Board's application/licensing fee; the $200 NCLEX exam fee (paid to Pearson VUE) is separate. The 24 CE hours include Florida-mandated subjects (medical errors, laws and rules, human trafficking, workplace impairment).

Florida nursing license FAQ

Does my compact nursing license let me work in Florida?
Yes. Florida is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) member state, so a multistate license issued by your compact home state covers practice in Florida without a separate application.
How much does a Florida nursing license cost?
The initial RN licensure fee in Florida is $110, and renewal is $75.
How many continuing-education hours does Florida require?
Florida requires 24 hours / 2 years for RN license renewal.
How do I verify a Florida nursing license?
Verify any U.S. nursing license through Nursys, the national verification system operated by the state boards of nursing.