Application Fee
$120Verified by NH Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in New Hampshire
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in New Hampshire, including $120 and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in New Hampshire
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- Provide written evidence of good professional character and good physical and mental health
- Ability to read and write the English language
- Be a graduate of an approved registered nursing program or demonstrate comparable education
- Applicants for initial permanent licensure or endorsement must submit a notarized criminal history record release form along with a complete set of fingerprints taken by a qualified law enforcement agency or authorized employee of the New Hampshire Department of Safety
- To continue or re-enter practice, validate 400 hours active-in-practice within four years prior to application
Written examination required
30 hours of workshops, conferences, lectures, or in-service educational offerings per renewal period designed to enhance nursing knowledge, judgement, and skills
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| NCLEX examination | $200 |
| Initial licensure | $120 |
| Endorsement | $120 |
| Reinstatement | $120 |
| Biennial renewal | $80 |
| Temporary licensure | $20 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
- Current Filing Fee
$120
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,830 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Provide written evidence of good professional character and good physical and mental health
- 2. Ability to read and write the English language
- 3. Be a graduate of an approved registered nursing program or demonstrate comparable education
- 4. Applicants for initial permanent licensure or endorsement must submit a notarized criminal history record release form along with a complete set of fingerprints taken by a qualified law enforcement agency or authorized employee of the New Hampshire Department of Safety
- 5. To continue or re-enter practice, validate 400 hours active-in-practice within four years prior to application
Salary Insights in New Hampshire
With a median salary of 96,830, Registered Nurses in New Hampshire earn 3% above the national median of $93,600. New Hampshire ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$96,830Hourly estimate
$46.553% above national median
Difference: +$3,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#15 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $96,830 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maine | $82,860 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $85,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $101,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maine | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 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
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH, 03301
Phone: 6032712152
Related Careers in New Hampshire
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $88,410 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $65,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $80,220 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $50,260 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in New Hampshire?
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 New Hampshire?
New Hampshire lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in New Hampshire?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in New Hampshire.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in New Hampshire?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in New Hampshire is 96,830. Salaries range from $69,250 (10th percentile) to $120,120 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in New Hampshire compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in New Hampshire earn 3% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 96,830.
How many Registered Nurses work in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire employs approximately 16,580 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
The licensing agency is Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. Review agency details at https://www.oplc.nh.gov/new-hampshire-board-nursing.