NCLEX-RN requirements in New Jersey
Everything you need to know to get licensed as an RN in New Jersey: the board, fees, continuing education, renewal cycle, fingerprint requirements, and NLC compact status.
How to get your RN license in New Jersey
- Graduate from an approved nursing program. New Jersey accepts ADN and BSN graduates from programs accredited by ACEN or CCNE.
- Apply to the New Jersey Board of Nursing. Submit your application, transcripts, and the $$120 licensing fee through the board's online portal at https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/nur.
- Complete fingerprinting and background check. New Jersey requires a criminal background check via fingerprinting, typically through L-1 Enrollment Services or IdentoGO.
- Register for the NCLEX-RN with NCSBN. Pay the $200 NCSBN fee, receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), and schedule with Pearson VUE.
- 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.
- Receive your license. New Jersey Board of Nursing issues your license number once your NCLEX results post.
New Jersey continuing education and renewal
New Jersey requires 30 continuing education hours per 2-year renewal cycle. Renewals are managed online through New Jersey Board of Nursing.
State-specific notes: Mandatory 1 hr prescription opioid drugs, 1 hr organ and tissue donation.
Is New Jersey a compact state?
New Jersey is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If you hold a multistate license issued by New Jersey, you can practice in every other compact state without applying for additional licensure. Your primary state of residency must be New Jersey to issue the compact license here.
How much does it cost to become an RN in New Jersey?
Total first-time licensure cost in New Jersey typically runs $370–$430: $120 state fee + $200 NCSBN NCLEX-RN fee + $50–60 fingerprinting, plus optional NCLEX prep ($10–$500 depending on resource).
Free NCLEX-RN practice for New Jersey 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.