Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ID Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Idaho
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Idaho, 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 Idaho
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Idaho Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,100 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#24 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 Idaho
With a median salary of 86,100, Registered Nurses in Idaho earn 8% below the national median of $93,600. Idaho ranks #24 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$86,100Hourly estimate
$41.398% below national median
Difference: -$7,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#24 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $86,100 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $81,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $81,790 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $82,270 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $101,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $123,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $112,180 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Montana | 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. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Idaho Board of Nursing
280 N. 8th St., Ste. 210, PO Box 83720, Boise, ID, 83720-0061
Phone: 208334326
Related Careers in Idaho
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $92,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,910 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $45,080 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $39,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Idaho?
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 Idaho?
Idaho 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 Idaho?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Idaho.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Idaho?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Idaho is 86,100. Salaries range from $65,690 (10th percentile) to $118,460 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Idaho compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Idaho earn 8% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 86,100.
How many Registered Nurses work in Idaho?
Idaho employs approximately 14,540 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Idaho 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 Idaho?
The licensing agency is Idaho Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://ibn.idaho.gov/IBNPortal/.