Are you considering a career in nursing in Colorado, known as the “Centennial State”? This guide offers a thorough overview of the requirements, timelines, and fees for obtaining and maintaining a nursing license in Colorado. Whether you’re a new nurse or looking to renew your license, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Colorado Nursing Schools
- Number of nursing schools in Colorado is 35
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Colorado ADN programs is 83.94%.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Colorado BSN programs is 89.94%.
- Find the best ranked Colorado nursing schools at RN Careers – Colorado Nursing Programs, RN to BSN programs in Colorado, and Nurse Practitioner programs in Colorado.
Nursing Licenses in Colorado at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | Yes |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | No |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | Colorado Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (303) 894-2430 |
Steps, Timelines and Cost for a Nursing License in Colorado
The journey to becoming a licensed nurse in Colorado starts with completing a recognized nursing program. After this, aspiring nurses take the NCLEX exam and apply for state licensure. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process, timeframe, and associated costs in Colorado.
| Step in Licensure Process | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Nursing Program (ADN/BSN) | 2-4 years (ADN), 4 years (BSN) | $10,000 – $60,000+ |
| Register for NCLEX Exam | Varies | $200 – $500 |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | Depends on state | $50 – $100 |
| Take NCLEX Exam | Once registered | Included in registration |
| Await NCLEX Results | Up to 6 weeks typically | N/A |
| Apply for State Licensure | After passing NCLEX | $100 – $500 |
| Temporary License Issued (if applicable) | Varies | Sometimes additional cost |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | 4-8 weeks after applying | Included in application fee |
| Renewal of License | Every 1-2 years typically | $50 – $500 |
| Continuing Education | Yearly usually | Varies |
Key Highlights for Colorado Nursing Licenses
- Typical Duration and Cost for Nursing Programs: In Colorado, ADN programs generally take 2-4 years, while BSN programs take about 4 years. Costs range from $10,000 to over $60,000.
- NCLEX Exam Authorization: The process for obtaining authorization to take the NCLEX in Colorado includes registering for the exam, with processing times varying. The registration fee ranges from $200 to $500. For more information, visit the NCLEX page.
- NCLEX Registration Costs and Fingerprinting Fees: Apart from the NCLEX registration fee, fingerprinting and background checks may cost between $50 and $100.
- NCLEX Results Waiting Period: In Colorado, it typically takes up to 6 weeks to receive NCLEX results.
- State Licensure Application Process: After passing the NCLEX, the application for state licensure in Colorado involves fees and an expected timeframe of 4-8 weeks for license issuance.
- Temporary License Process and Costs: Colorado does not currently issue temporary licenses.
- Official Nursing License Timeframe and Fees: Once the NCLEX is passed, it takes about 4-8 weeks to obtain the official nursing license in Colorado. The cost is included in the application fee.
- License Renewal Process: In Colorado, RN licenses expire on September 30 of odd- or even-numbered years, and LPN licenses expire on August 31 of even-numbered years. The renewal fee is $108, and there are no required contact hours.
Colorado Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Colorado must meet specific educational, certification, and licensure requirements. The process includes obtaining a graduate-level education, national certification, and state licensure. This section provides an overview of these requirements, as well as key steps for APRN licensure in Colorado.
- Education Requirements: APRNs in Colorado must complete a graduate-level program in their chosen role (CNP, CRNA, CNS, CNM).
- Certification: Obtain national certification from an approved certifying body.
- State Licensure: Apply for licensure through the Colorado Board of Nursing, including submitting required documentation and fees.
- Prescriptive Authority: In Colorado, APRNs may have prescriptive authority, subject to state-specific regulations.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses in Colorado require periodic renewal and continuing education.
- Practice Authority: Colorado defines the scope of practice for APRNs, which includes patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and health condition management. For full details, visit the Colorado Nursing Practice Act.
- eNLC Participation: Colorado is a part of the eNLC, allowing APRNs to practice in other eNLC states without additional licenses.
- Scope of Practice: Defined by state law, including various healthcare responsibilities.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Additional requirements may apply based on the specific APRN role.
- Transition to Practice: Colorado may require supervised practice hours for new APRNs.
- Insurance and Liability: APRNs should be aware of malpractice insurance requirements in Colorado.
This guide provides an exhaustive look at the process of obtaining and maintaining a nursing license in Colorado, including detailed steps for APRNs. For further information and updates, always refer to the Colorado Board of Nursing and relevant professional bodies.
