Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in West Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
REGISTERED PROFESSIONAL NURSES
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,990 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 79,990, Registered Nurses in West Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $93,600. West Virginia ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$79,990Hourly estimate
$38.4615% below national median
Difference: -$13,610
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $79,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $87,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $96,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $88,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $79,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $81,250 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Ohio | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
REGISTERED PROFESSIONAL NURSES
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3047440900
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in West Virginia is 79,990. Salaries range from $53,060 (10th percentile) to $106,830 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in West Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 79,990.
How many Registered Nurses work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 21,740 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is REGISTERED PROFESSIONAL NURSES. Review agency details at http://www.wvrnboard.wv.gov/.