NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) License in Texas
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Texas, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and have no disqualifying criminal convictions. Texas is an NLC compact state with no state income tax. Estimated costs are approximately $425. The Texas Medical Center in Houston is the world's largest medical complex.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $425 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) registration in Texas
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $110
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $67
- Total Estimated Cost
- $425
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) license in Texas. 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 Texas licensing board.
NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) Salary in Texas
Entry Level
$64,660
Median
$90,010
Experienced
$122,060
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 (RN) in Texas.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Both state and third-party exams required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$110.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) Licensing in Texas: What to Know
Texas requires a degree, both state and third-party exams (NCLEX-RN), CE for renewal, and prohibits specific types of convictions. Texas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Texas Board of Nursing oversees licensure. Texas is the second most-populous state with a massive healthcare sector — the Texas Medical Center in Houston is the world's largest medical complex. Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin also have major healthcare systems. Texas has no state income tax, making it financially attractive for nurses. The state's diverse population creates demand for bilingual (English/Spanish) nurses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) license cost in Texas?
- The estimated total cost is $425, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) license in Texas?
- 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 (RN) license in Texas?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Both state and third-party exams required
Considering another state?
Compare NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.