Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Public Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,410 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Registered Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Illinois Department of Public Health and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $86,410, Registered Nurses in Illinois earn 8% below the national median of $93,600. Illinois ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$86,410Hourly estimate
$41.548% below national median
Difference: -$7,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $86,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $86,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $76,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $79,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $79,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $80,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Illinois Department of Public Health
535 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL, 62761
Phone: 2177852080
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $301,580 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $62,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Illinois is $86,410. Salaries range from $64,930 (10th percentile) to $112,320 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Illinois earn 8% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of $86,410.
How many Registered Nurses work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 139,900 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Public Health. Review agency details at http://www.idph.state.il.us/.
How often do you renew a Registered Nurse license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.