Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Iowa, 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 Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,960 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 76,960, Registered Nurses in Iowa earn 18% below the national median of $93,600. Iowa ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$76,960Hourly estimate
$37.0018% below national median
Difference: -$16,640
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#47 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $76,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $100,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $86,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $86,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $79,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $81,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $69,510 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 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
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50325
Phone: 5152814822
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Registered Nurse licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Iowa is 76,960. Salaries range from $62,210 (10th percentile) to $98,280 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Iowa earn 18% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 76,960.
How many Registered Nurses work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 33,480 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/i-need/licenses/medical/nursing-professional-midwifery.