Application Fee
See agencyVerified by DE Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Delaware
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Delaware, 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 Registered Nurse in Delaware
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- 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
Delaware Department of State • Division of Professional Regulation • Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$92,610 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#17 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 Delaware
With a median salary of 92,610, Registered Nurses in Delaware earn 1% below the national median of $93,600. Delaware ranks #17 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$92,610Hourly estimate
$44.521% below national median
Difference: -$990
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#17 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $92,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $96,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $87,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $102,730 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 56 | Medium | 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
Delaware Department of State • Division of Professional Regulation • Board of Nursing
Cannon Building, 861 Silver Lake Blvd., STE. 203, Dover, DE, 19904-2467
Phone: 3027444500
Related Careers in Delaware
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $78,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,000 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $67,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Delaware?
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 Delaware?
Delaware lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Delaware?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Delaware.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Delaware?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Delaware is 92,610. Salaries range from $72,850 (10th percentile) to $127,340 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Delaware earn 1% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 92,610.
How many Registered Nurses work in Delaware?
Delaware employs approximately 13,260 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Delaware 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 Delaware?
The licensing agency is Delaware Department of State / Division of Professional Regulation / Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://dpr.delaware.gov/boards/nursing/.