Pennsylvania requires a state-level registered nurse license. The licensing authority is State Board of Nursing. The median salary is $78,560 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
Pennsylvania 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 State Board of Nursing.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
| Experience Details | Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
Pennsylvania requires passing the Pennsylvania Registered Nurse Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $200.
| Exam Name | Pennsylvania Registered Nurse Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | NCLEX-RN Examination |
| Application Fee | $200 |
Getting licensed as a registered nurse in Pennsylvania takes 12 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
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.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $200 |
| License Renewal | $200 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 24 hours |
Registered Nurses in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $78,560, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in Pennsylvania |
| National average | $89,010 |
Yes — Pennsylvania requires a state-level registered nurse license. Provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support.
The required exam is the Pennsylvania Registered Nurse Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $200.
The median annual salary for registered nurses in Pennsylvania is $78,560. The national median is $89,010.
Pennsylvania requires 24 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 12 months including experience requirements.