Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in New York, 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 New York
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: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NYS Education Department • State Board for Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$105,600 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 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 York
With a median salary of 105,600, Registered Nurses in New York earn 13% above the national median of $93,600. New York ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$105,600Hourly estimate
$50.7713% above national median
Difference: +$12,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#6 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 York | $105,600 | Degree required | 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 |
| Connecticut | $101,590 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $102,730 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $87,610 | 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 York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 56 | Medium | 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NYS Education Department • State Board for Nursing
89 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12234
Phone: 5184743817ext120
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,750 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $82,640 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $84,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in New York?
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 York?
New York 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 New York?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in New York.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in New York is 105,600. Salaries range from $77,930 (10th percentile) to $153,420 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in New York compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in New York earn 13% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 105,600.
How many Registered Nurses work in New York?
New York employs approximately 204,120 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to New York from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in New York?
The licensing agency is NYS Education Department / State Board for Nursing. Review agency details at http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/.