Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams 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
Texas Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$90,010 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 Texas
With a median salary of 90,010, Registered Nurses in Texas earn 4% below the national median of $93,600. Texas ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$90,010Hourly estimate
$43.274% below national median
Difference: -$3,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $90,010 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $81,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $77,130 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $78,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $88,260 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 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. |
| Louisiana | 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
Texas Board of Nursing
1801 Congress Ave, Ste. 10.200, Austin, TX, 78701
Phone: 5123057400
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $87,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $42,270 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Texas is 90,010. Salaries range from $64,660 (10th percentile) to $122,060 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Texas earn 4% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 90,010.
How many Registered Nurses work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 261,050 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.bon.texas.gov/.