How to Become a Registered Nurse in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, a RN license typically requires a state exam, and a $200 exam fee.
Provides direct patient care and coordinates care plans. Requires an ADN or BSN and the NCLEX-RN; licensing is via state boards of nursing. Requirements change — always confirm with Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing before paying.
Licensing steps in Pennsylvania
- 1Meet the basic requirements
Age and background check rules vary — confirm with the state board.
- 2Complete pre-license education
Required training hours are not published here — check with the state board for the current figure.
- 3Register and pass the exam
The exam is administered by Pearson VUE.
- 4Pay fees and get licensed
Exam fee $200 · application $95 · license $95
- 5Stay current
License renews every 2 years with 30 hours of continuing education.
RN requirements — Pennsylvania at a glance
| Education hours | — |
| Exam vendor | Pearson VUE |
| Questions (national/state) | — / — |
| Passing score | — |
| Exam fee | $200 |
| Application fee | $95 |
| License fee | $95 |
| First-attempt pass rate | not published |
| Retake rule | — |
| Renewal | every 2 years · 30 CE |
| Reciprocity | Yes — NLC member (multistate since July 7, 2025) |
Official source: Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing ↗
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a RN license in Pennsylvania?
After completing the required education, most candidates need 4-12 weeks of study before the exam. Total timeline depends on scheduling.
How hard is the RN exam in Pennsylvania?
Official first-attempt pass rates are not published by Pennsylvania; check the state board.
What does the RN license cost in Pennsylvania?
The exam fee is $200, the application fee is $95, and the license fee is $95
Can I transfer my RN license to Pennsylvania?
Reciprocity: Yes — NLC member (multistate since July 7, 2025).
Plan your RN licensing in Pennsylvania
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (retrieved 2026-08-20).