Registered Nurse License in Kentucky
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Kentucky, you must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN. Kentucky is an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $375. Kentucky requires annual license renewal with continuing education.
- 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 1 year
Requirements
Registered Nurse registration in Kentucky
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $75
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $65
- Total Estimated Cost
- $375
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse license in Kentucky. 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 Kentucky licensing board.
Registered Nurse Salary in Kentucky
Entry Level
$63,180
Median
$79,910
Experienced
$104,430
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 Kentucky.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 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: ~$75.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse Licensing in Kentucky: What to Know
Kentucky requires a degree, passing the NCLEX-RN, and CE for renewal. Kentucky's data notes no criminal record prohibitions specifically, though the board does review each case. Kentucky is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Kentucky Board of Nursing oversees licensure. Kentucky has an annual renewal cycle, making it one of the states with more frequent renewal. Louisville and Lexington healthcare systems drive demand, while Appalachian eastern Kentucky faces severe nursing shortages. The state has focused on expanding nursing education programs to address these shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse license cost in Kentucky?
- 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 Kentucky?
- 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 Kentucky?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.