Registered Nurse License in Indiana
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Indiana, you must graduate from a state-accredited nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and demonstrate you are physically, mentally, and professionally capable. Indiana is an NLC compact state. Note: any criminal conviction may prohibit licensure. Estimated costs are approximately $375.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $375 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse registration in Indiana
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $50
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $50
- Total Estimated Cost
- $375
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse license in Indiana. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Indiana licensing board.
Registered Nurse Salary in Indiana
Entry Level
$63,720
Median
$80,740
Experienced
$103,820
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Registered Nurse in Indiana.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Any conviction is prohibited
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Both state and third-party exams required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$50.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse Licensing in Indiana: What to Know
Indiana requires graduation from a state-accredited nursing program or equivalent foreign program deemed substantially equivalent by the board. Applicants must be physically, mentally, and professionally capable of practicing nursing safely. Indiana has unusually strict criminal provisions — any conviction may prohibit licensure, making it one of the strictest states in this regard. Both state and third-party exams are required. Indiana is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Indiana State Board of Nursing under the Professional Licensing Agency oversees RN licensing. Indianapolis and its surrounding medical corridor drive strong demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse license cost in Indiana?
- The estimated total cost is $375, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse license in Indiana?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Registered Nurse license in Indiana?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Both state and third-party exams required
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.