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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $86,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $76,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $79,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $79,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $80,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Public Health
535 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL, 62761
Phone: 2177852080
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $67,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $66,940 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,430 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Illinois?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. 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/.