NURSE, REGISTERED License in District of Columbia
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in DC, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and apply through the DC Health Regulation Administration. DC is an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $430. Continuing education is required for biennial renewal.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $430 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
NURSE, REGISTERED registration in District of Columbia
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $130
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $130
- Total Estimated Cost
- $430
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your NURSE, REGISTERED license in District of Columbia. 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 District of Columbia licensing board.
NURSE, REGISTERED Salary in District of Columbia
Entry Level
$81,880
Median
$104,550
Experienced
$135,620
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 District of Columbia.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 3
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$130.
- 4
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
NURSE, REGISTERED Licensing in District of Columbia: What to Know
The District of Columbia provides minimal licensing detail in its COS data, directing applicants to contact the licensing agency. DC's Health Regulation Administration under the Department of Health oversees nursing licensure. CE is required for renewal. DC is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The district is home to several major medical centers including MedStar, Children's National, and George Washington University Hospital, creating strong demand for nurses. The compact location of the district means many nurses commute from Maryland and Virginia, making the NLC multistate privilege particularly relevant.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a NURSE, REGISTERED license cost in District of Columbia?
- The estimated total cost is $430, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a NURSE, REGISTERED license in District of Columbia?
- 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 District of Columbia?
- 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.