Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Nurse Practitioner Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nurse practitioner in Texas, 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 Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite)
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$129,880 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 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 Texas
With a median salary of 129,880, Nurse Practitioners in Texas earn 1% above the national median of $129,210. Texas ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$129,880Hourly estimate
$62.441% above national median
Difference: +$670
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNurse Practitioner Salary Ranking
#15 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $129,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $126,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $113,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $125,980 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $138,440 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 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. |
| Arkansas | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Louisiana | 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
Texas Board of Nursing
1801 Congress Ave, Ste. 10.200, Austin, TX, 78701
Phone: 5123057400
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $87,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $42,270 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nurse Practitioner in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas 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 Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nurse Practitioner licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Nurse Practitioner salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Nurse Practitioners in Texas is 129,880. Salaries range from $96,140 (10th percentile) to $165,530 (90th percentile).
How does the Nurse Practitioner salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Nurse Practitioners in Texas earn 1% above the national median of $129,210, with a state median of 129,880.
How many Nurse Practitioners work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 21,690 Nurse Practitioners according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nurse Practitioner license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.bon.texas.gov/.