Registered Nurse License in Colorado
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Colorado, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and apply through the Board of Nursing. Colorado is an NLC compact state, and military spouses are exempt from licensing requirements. Estimated total cost is approximately $400. Continuing education is required for renewal.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $400 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse registration in Colorado
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $88
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $88
- Total Estimated Cost
- $400
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse license in Colorado. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Colorado licensing board.
Registered Nurse Salary in Colorado
Entry Level
$76,050
Median
$96,520
Experienced
$121,710
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Registered Nurse in Colorado.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 3
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$88.
- 4
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse Licensing in Colorado: What to Know
Colorado's Board of Nursing, under the Division of Professions and Occupations, oversees more than 110,000 licensees. The state requires a degree, a state exam (NCLEX-RN), CE for renewal, and work experience. Colorado is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and military spouses are exempt from licensure requirements. Colorado's booming Front Range corridor (Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins) drives strong nursing demand. The state also has significant healthcare needs in mountain and western slope communities. Colorado is known for progressive healthcare policies and nurse practice autonomy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse license cost in Colorado?
- The estimated total cost is $400, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse license in Colorado?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Registered Nurse license in Colorado?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.