Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,030 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 79,030, Registered Nurses in Tennessee earn 16% below the national median of $93,600. Tennessee ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$79,030Hourly estimate
$38.0016% below national median
Difference: -$14,570
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $79,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $79,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $88,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $81,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $86,560 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $71,040 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $74,470 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $77,130 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $79,770 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 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
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor, Nashville, TN, 37243
Phone: 6155327212
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Tennessee is 79,030. Salaries range from $59,540 (10th percentile) to $102,040 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Tennessee earn 16% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 79,030.
How many Registered Nurses work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 67,990 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.