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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in North Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 North Dakota eligibility requirements for Registered Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to ND Board of Nursing and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $100,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $69,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $81,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,380 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $91,440 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in North Dakota?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Registered Nurse license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.