Application Fee
See agencyVerified by GA Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Georgia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Georgia, 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 Georgia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Georgia Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,560 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 Georgia
With a median salary of 86,560, Registered Nurses in Georgia earn 8% below the national median of $93,600. Georgia ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$86,560Hourly estimate
$41.628% below national median
Difference: -$7,040
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#22 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $86,560 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $79,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $81,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $79,900 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $82,850 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $71,040 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Florida | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: No new Licenses.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Georgia Board of Nursing
237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA, 31217-3858
Phone: 4782072440
Related Careers in Georgia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $101,920 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $61,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,600 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Georgia?
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 Georgia?
Georgia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Georgia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Registered Nurse licensure in Georgia.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Georgia?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Georgia is 86,560. Salaries range from $66,110 (10th percentile) to $124,810 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Georgia compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Georgia earn 8% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 86,560.
How many Registered Nurses work in Georgia?
Georgia employs approximately 97,410 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Georgia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: No new Licenses. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in Georgia?
The licensing agency is Georgia Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing.