Application Fee
See agencyVerified by FL Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Florida
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Florida, 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 Florida
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
FL Department of Health • Division of Medical Quality Assurance
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$82,850 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 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 Florida
With a median salary of 82,850, Registered Nurses in Florida earn 11% below the national median of $93,600. Florida ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$82,850Hourly estimate
$39.8311% below national median
Difference: -$10,750
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#29 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 56 | Medium | 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
FL Department of Health • Division of Medical Quality Assurance
4042 Bald Cypress Way, Tallahassee, Fl, 32399-3250
Phone: 8504880595
Related Careers in Florida
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $83,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,940 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,060 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Florida?
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 Florida?
Florida lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Florida?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Florida.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Florida?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Florida is 82,850. Salaries range from $66,670 (10th percentile) to $110,530 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Florida compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Florida earn 11% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 82,850.
How many Registered Nurses work in Florida?
Florida employs approximately 218,100 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Florida 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 Florida?
The licensing agency is FL Department of Health / Division of Medical Quality Assurance. Review agency details at https://www.doh.state.fl.us/.