Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AZ Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Arizona
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Arizona, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Arizona
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,890 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 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 Arizona
With a median salary of 96,890, Registered Nurses in Arizona earn 4% above the national median of $93,600. Arizona ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,369Median annual salary
$96,890Hourly estimate
$46.584% above national median
Difference: +$3,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#13 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $96,890 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $82,270 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $96,520 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $88,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $101,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| California | $140,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Colorado | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Board of Nursing
1740 W Adams St, Ste 2000, Phoenix, AZ, 85007
Phone: 6027717800
Related Careers in Arizona
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $102,130 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $95,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,480 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $49,000 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Arizona?
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 is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Arizona?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Arizona is 96,890. Salaries range from $69,930 (10th percentile) to $123,480 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Arizona compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Arizona earn 4% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 96,890.
How many Registered Nurses work in Arizona?
Arizona employs approximately 64,430 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Arizona from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in Arizona?
The licensing agency is Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.azbn.gov/.