Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in New Jersey, including See agency 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 Jersey
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$102,730 median (10% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 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 New Jersey
With a median salary of 102,730, Registered Nurses in New Jersey earn 10% above the national median of $93,600. New Jersey ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$102,730Hourly estimate
$49.3910% above national median
Difference: +$9,130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#7 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 Jersey | $102,730 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $105,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $87,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $92,610 | 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 Jersey | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 56 | Medium | 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
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • Board of Nursing
PO Box 45010, Newark, NJ, 7101
Phone: 9735046503
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $101,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,270 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,070 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in New Jersey?
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 Jersey?
New Jersey 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 Jersey?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in New Jersey is 102,730. Salaries range from $81,670 (10th percentile) to $130,540 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in New Jersey earn 10% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 102,730.
How many Registered Nurses work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 95,150 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to New Jersey 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 Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Law and Public Safety / Division of Consumer Affairs / Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://www.state.nj.us/lps/ca/medical/nursing.htm.