✓ License Required

Registered Nurse License in New York

New York requires a state-level registered nurse license. The licensing authority is New York State Education Dept - Office of the Professions. The median salary is $96,670 per year.

Last updated 2026-05-08

Experience
— months
Exam Fee
$200
Passing Score
70%
Avg Salary
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What are the registered nurse license requirements in New York?

01

New York requires a registered nurse to hold a state license. Provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support. Licensing is administered by the New York State Education Dept - Office of the Professions.

Minimum Age18 years old
EducationAssociate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Experience DetailsAssociate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

What exam do you need for a registered nurse license in New York?

02

New York requires passing the New York Registered Nurse Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $200.

Exam NameNew York Registered Nurse Exam
Passing Score70%
Code EditionNCLEX-RN Examination
Application Fee$200

How do you get a registered nurse license in New York?

03

Getting licensed as a registered nurse in New York takes 12 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.

1
Register with the state
Register with New York State Education Dept - Office of the Professions before beginning work.
2
Accumulate required experience
Complete — months of supervised work experience.
3
Apply for the exam
Submit your application and $200 fee through the state portal.
4
Pass the exam
questions, 70% to pass.
5
Receive your license
After passing, your license will be issued. Renew every 2 years.

How much does a registered nurse license cost in New York?

04

The total cost includes an exam application fee of $200 and renewal fees of $200 every 2 years. Continuing education of 24 hours is required per renewal cycle.

FeeAmount
Exam Application$200
License Renewal$200 every 2 years
Continuing Education24 hours

How much do registered nurses make in New York?

05

Registered Nurses in New York earn a median salary of $96,670, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

25th Percentile
Median
$96,670
75th Percentile
Mean (average)— / year
Entry level (10th pct)
Top earners (90th pct)
Total employed— in New York
National average$89,010

Frequently Asked Questions

07

Is a license required to work as a registered nurse in New York?

Yes — New York requires a state-level registered nurse license. Provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support.

What exam is required for a registered nurse license in New York?

The required exam is the New York Registered Nurse Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $200.

How much do registered nurses make in New York?

The median annual salary for registered nurses in New York is $96,670. The national median is $89,010.

What are the continuing education requirements for registered nurses in New York?

New York requires 24 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a registered nurse license in New York?

The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 12 months including experience requirements.

Related

Data last verified April 2026. Requirements may change — always verify with the New York State Education Dept - Office of the Professions.