LicenseCompass

Nurse, Registered License in Delaware

Quick Answer

To become a registered nurse in Delaware, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and meet CE requirements. Delaware is an NLC compact state with multistate licensing. Temporary permits are available for military spouses. Estimated costs are approximately $450.

Exam
NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
Total Cost
$450 (est.)
Timeline
2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
Renewal
Every 2 years

Requirements

Nurse, Registered registration in Delaware

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
A temporary license is available to military and spouses until formal license approval

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$141
Exam Fee
$200
Renewal Fee
$141
Total Estimated Cost
$450

Licensing Agency

Delaware Department of State~Division of Professional Regulation~Board of Nursing

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Nurse, Registered license in Delaware. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$141
Exam FeeEst.$200
Total Estimated Cost$341

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Delaware licensing board.

Nurse, Registered Salary in Delaware

Entry Level

$72,850

Median

$92,610

Experienced

$127,340

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Nurse, Registered in Delaware.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)

  3. 3

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$141.

  4. 4

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).

Nurse, Registered Licensing in Delaware: What to Know

Delaware requires a degree, third-party exam (NCLEX-RN), CE, and work experience for registered nurses. The state is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and issues multistate licenses. Temporary licenses are available for military spouses until formal approval. Delaware's Division of Professional Regulation oversees nursing licensure through the Board of Nursing. The state's position between Philadelphia and Baltimore creates a unique employment market, with many Delaware nurses working in those metro areas under multistate compact privileges. Christiana Care Health System is the state's largest healthcare employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Nurse, Registered license cost in Delaware?
The estimated total cost is $450, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Nurse, Registered license in Delaware?
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 Nurse, Registered license in Delaware?
You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Nurse, Registered requirements across states.

View all states →

Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.