How to get your RN license in Illinois

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program. Illinois accepts ADN and BSN graduates from programs accredited by ACEN or CCNE.
2. Apply to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Submit your application, transcripts, and the $$65 licensing fee through the board's online portal at https://idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/nursing.html.
3. Background check. Illinois does not require fingerprinting, but a self-disclosure of any prior convictions is required.
4. Register for the NCLEX-RN with NCSBN. Pay the $200 NCSBN fee, receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), and schedule with Pearson VUE.
5. Pass the NCLEX-RN. The exam is 75 to 145 questions, computer adaptive, up to 5 hours. Results are reported to your state board within 1–2 business days.
6. Receive your license. Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation issues your license number once your NCLEX results post.

Illinois continuing education and renewal

Illinois requires 20 continuing education hours per 2-year renewal cycle. Renewals are managed online through Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

Is Illinois a compact state?

Illinois is not currently a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. RNs licensed in Illinois need to apply for endorsement in any other state where they want to practice. RNs from compact states must obtain a Illinois single-state license to work here.

How much does it cost to become an RN in Illinois?

Total first-time licensure cost in Illinois typically runs $265–$315: $65 state fee + $200 NCSBN NCLEX-RN fee, plus optional NCLEX prep ($10–$500 depending on resource).

Free NCLEX-RN practice for Illinois candidates

Clarity gives every test-taker 10 free NCLEX questions per day with a free account. Premium ($9.99/mo) unlocks 5,000+ questions, the AI tutor, and 5 timed readiness exams modeled on the live NCLEX-RN — accepted at every state board because the NCLEX itself is the same nationally.