Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Nurse Practitioner Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nurse practitioner in Tennessee, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$108,420 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 108,420, Nurse Practitioners in Tennessee earn 16% below the national median of $129,210. Tennessee ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,297Median annual salary
$108,420Hourly estimate
$52.1316% below national median
Difference: -$20,790
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNurse Practitioner Salary Ranking
#49 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $108,420 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $113,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $124,210 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $125,020 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $126,060 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $106,930 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $119,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $113,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $126,370 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 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 Health
"665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd Floor", Na, 000TN-7243
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Nurse Practitioners.
What education do you need to become a Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nurse Practitioner licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Nurse Practitioner salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Nurse Practitioners in Tennessee is 108,420. Salaries range from $61,530 (10th percentile) to $133,120 (90th percentile).
How does the Nurse Practitioner salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Nurse Practitioners in Tennessee earn 16% below the national median of $129,210, with a state median of 108,420.
How many Nurse Practitioners work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 14,300 Nurse Practitioners according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nurse Practitioner license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health.