Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$78,260 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 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 North Dakota
With a median salary of 78,260, Registered Nurses in North Dakota earn 16% below the national median of $93,600. North Dakota ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$78,260Hourly estimate
$37.6316% below national median
Difference: -$15,340
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#44 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $78,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $100,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $69,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $81,560 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
ND Board of Nursing
919 7th St S Ste 504, Bismarck, ND, 58504
Phone: 7017513000
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $91,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $81,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $51,310 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in North Dakota is 78,260. Salaries range from $65,770 (10th percentile) to $99,540 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in North Dakota earn 16% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 78,260.
How many Registered Nurses work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 11,000 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.ndbon.org/.