Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CO Board of Healthcare
Nurse Practitioner Licensing in Colorado
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nurse practitioner in Colorado, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nurse Practitioner in Colorado
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Regulatory Agencies • Division of Professions & Occupations • Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$129,750 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Colorado
With a median salary of 129,750, Nurse Practitioners in Colorado earn 0% above the national median of $129,210. Colorado ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$129,750Hourly estimate
$62.380% above national median
Difference: +$540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNurse Practitioner Salary Ranking
#16 of 50 statesfor Nurse Practitioner median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 166,610 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 149,620 |
| #3 | Alaska | 145,450 |
| #4 | New York | 145,390 |
| #5 | Oregon | 144,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Nurse Practitioner licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $129,750 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $127,750 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $127,930 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $124,690 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $126,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $138,440 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $133,790 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $125,700 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Kansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Regulatory Agencies • Division of Professions & Occupations • Board of Nursing
1560 Broadway Ste 1350, Denver, CO, 80202
Phone: 3038947800
Related Careers in Colorado
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $94,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,900 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $69,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,770 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Nurse Practitioners in Colorado?
Colorado lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Nurse Practitioners.
What education do you need to become a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nurse Practitioner licensure in Colorado.
What is the typical Nurse Practitioner salary in Colorado?
The median annual salary for Nurse Practitioners in Colorado is 129,750. Salaries range from $83,060 (10th percentile) to $165,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Nurse Practitioner salary in Colorado compare to the national average?
Nurse Practitioners in Colorado earn 0% above the national median of $129,210, with a state median of 129,750.
How many Nurse Practitioners work in Colorado?
Colorado employs approximately 4,130 Nurse Practitioners according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nurse Practitioner license to Colorado from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Nurse Practitioners in Colorado?
The licensing agency is Department of Regulatory Agencies / Division of Professions & Occupations / Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://dpo.colorado.gov/Nursing.