Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IN Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Indiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Indiana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Indiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Any conviction is prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Indiana Professional Licensing Agency • Indiana State Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$80,740 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 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 Indiana
With a median salary of 80,740, Registered Nurses in Indiana earn 14% below the national median of $93,600. Indiana ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$80,740Hourly estimate
$38.8214% below national median
Difference: -$12,860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | $80,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $85,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $81,250 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $79,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $86,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 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
Indiana Professional Licensing Agency • Indiana State Board of Nursing
402 W. Washington Street, Room W072, Indianapolis, IN, 46204
Phone: 3172342043
Related Careers in Indiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,080 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,070 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $55,420 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Indiana?
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 Indiana?
Indiana lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Indiana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Indiana.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Indiana?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Indiana is 80,740. Salaries range from $63,720 (10th percentile) to $103,820 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Indiana compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Indiana earn 14% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 80,740.
How many Registered Nurses work in Indiana?
Indiana employs approximately 68,950 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Indiana 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 Indiana?
The licensing agency is Indiana Professional Licensing Agency / Indiana State Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://www.in.gov/pla/nursing.htm.