Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree 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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$78,880 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 78,880, Registered Nurses in Louisiana earn 16% below the national median of $93,600. Louisiana ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$78,880Hourly estimate
$37.9216% below national median
Difference: -$14,720
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#43 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $78,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $77,130 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $74,470 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $90,010 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Nursing
17373 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA, 70810
Phone: 2257557500
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $97,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $56,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Louisiana is 78,880. Salaries range from $62,830 (10th percentile) to $111,810 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Louisiana earn 16% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 78,880.
How many Registered Nurses work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 46,790 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals / Louisiana State Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.lsbn.state.la.us/.