Registered Nurse (RN) License in Iowa
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Iowa, you must complete an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and undergo a background check. Iowa is an NLC compact state with a 3-year renewal cycle. Estimated costs are approximately $400. Continuing education is required.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $400 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 3 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse (RN) registration in Iowa
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $93
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $93
- Total Estimated Cost
- $400
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse (RN) license in Iowa. 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 Iowa licensing board.
Registered Nurse (RN) Salary in Iowa
Entry Level
$62,210
Median
$76,960
Experienced
$98,280
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 (RN) in Iowa.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$93.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing in Iowa: What to Know
Iowa requires completion of a specific nursing course and passing a third-party exam (NCLEX-RN). Background checks are required, and CE is mandatory for renewal. Iowa is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing oversees nursing licensure. Iowa's healthcare landscape is dominated by major systems like UnityPoint Health and MercyOne. Rural Iowa has significant nursing shortages, particularly in western and southern counties. Iowa has a 3-year renewal cycle, which is longer than most states' biennial renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse (RN) license cost in Iowa?
- The estimated total cost is $400, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse (RN) license in Iowa?
- 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 (RN) license in Iowa?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse (RN) requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.