Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OK Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Oklahoma
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Oklahoma, 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 Oklahoma
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Oklahoma Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,160 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 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 Oklahoma
With a median salary of 81,160, Registered Nurses in Oklahoma earn 13% below the national median of $93,600. Oklahoma ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$81,160Hourly estimate
$39.0213% below national median
Difference: -$12,440
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#35 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $81,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $78,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $79,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $77,130 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $90,010 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $88,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $96,520 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 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
Oklahoma Board of Nursing
2501 N. Lincoln Blvd, Suite 207, Oklahoma City, OK, 73105
Phone: 4059621809
Related Careers in Oklahoma
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $77,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,940 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,820 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $44,450 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Oklahoma?
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 Oklahoma?
Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Oklahoma.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Oklahoma?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Oklahoma is 81,160. Salaries range from $64,110 (10th percentile) to $105,320 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Oklahoma compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Oklahoma earn 13% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 81,160.
How many Registered Nurses work in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma employs approximately 32,870 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma?
The licensing agency is Oklahoma Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://nursing.ok.gov/.