Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CO Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Colorado
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse 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 Registered Nurse 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
$96,520 median (3% 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 96,520, Registered Nurses in Colorado earn 3% above the national median of $93,600. Colorado ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$96,520Hourly estimate
$46.403% above national median
Difference: +$2,920
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#16 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $96,520 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $81,790 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $81,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $78,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $81,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $88,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| 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 |
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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| 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 Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses in Colorado?
Colorado lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Colorado?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Colorado.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Colorado?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Colorado is 96,520. Salaries range from $76,050 (10th percentile) to $121,710 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Colorado compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Colorado earn 3% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 96,520.
How many Registered Nurses work in Colorado?
Colorado employs approximately 54,510 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses 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.