Nurses looking to practice in the Land of Lincoln will need to understand Illinois’ requirements for earning a Nursing License in Illinois. This article provides comprehensive details about getting, renewing and maintaining nursing licenses in Illinois including application requirements, timelines, and fees for both RN and APRN licenses. As the 6th most populous state, Illinois offers nurses plentiful job opportunities across diverse, vibrant cities and healthcare settings.
Illinois Nursing Schools
- The number of nursing schools in Illinois is 89, where “IL” is the two-letter state abbreviation.
- The average NCLEX passing rate for Illinois ADN programs is 85.82%.
- The average NCLEX passing rate for Illinois BSN programs is 83.55%.
- Find the best-ranked Illinois nursing schools at:
Nursing Licenses in Illinois at A Glance
Create a text table with the following information, filling in the state-specific data as provided:
| Type | Status | URL |
|---|---|---|
| eNLC | No | eNLC |
| Walk-Through | No | |
| Temp License | Yes | |
| Nursys | Yes | Nursys |
| BON Website | URL | State Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | Number | (888) 687-7307 |
Steps, Timelines, and Cost for Nursing Licenses in Illinois
Outline the step-by-step process for earning a nursing license in Illinois, including a text table for specific details. Update the table with state-specific information where provided:
| 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 fee |
| Await NCLEX Results | 2 to 6 weeks typically | N/A |
| Apply for State Licensure | After passing NCLEX | $50 for Endorsement Application; $25 for Temporary License |
| Temporary License Issued (if applicable) | Varies | Sometimes additional cost |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | 2-4 weeks after applying | Included in application fee |
| Renewal of License | May 31st of even numbered years | $40 |
| Continuing Education | Yearly usually | Varies |
Key Highlights for Illinois Nursing Licenses
- Duration and Cost of ADN vs. BSN Programs: Nursing programs in Illinois typically range from 2 to 4 years for an ADN and 4 years for a BSN, with tuition costs varying widely depending on the institution.
- Steps for NCLEX Authorization: Applicants must register for and pass the NCLEX exam, with registration fees between $200 and $500. Fingerprinting and background checks are required, costing between $50 and $100.
- NCLEX Results Waiting Period: Typically, nurses in Illinois wait 2 to 6 weeks to receive their NCLEX test results.
- State Licensure Application Process: The process includes applying for licensure, submitting to a background check, and paying the applicable fees. Temporary licenses are issued on a case-by-case basis, and the permanent license issuance takes approximately 2-4 weeks.
- Temporary Licenses: If needed, a temporary license may be issued, valid for 6 months, with the board determining necessity on a case-by-case basis.
- Official License Issuance: After passing the NCLEX and completing all requirements, the official nursing license is typically issued within 2-4 weeks.
- License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed by May 31st of even-numbered years, with a $40 renewal fee and a requirement of 20 continuing education hours.
Illinois Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) licenses in Illinois reflect the high level of education, skill, and competency achieved by nurses. APRNs in Illinois are subject to
state-specific educational requirements, certification, and licensure processes, highlighting the state’s commitment to ensuring high-quality healthcare services.
Instructions for State-Specific APRN Licensing Information
- State Introduction: Illinois provides distinct paths and requirements for APRNs, emphasizing the importance of graduate-level education and national certification.
- Education Requirements: Graduate-level education accredited by ACEN or CCNE is essential for APRN roles in Illinois. For more information, visit:
- Certification: Illinois requires national certification for APRN roles, attainable through various specialization pathways.
- State Licensure: Application includes submission, background checks, and adherence to state-specific requirements. More information is available at the state board of nursing’s website: Illinois Board of Nursing.
- Prescriptive Authority: In Illinois, APRNs may need additional coursework in pharmacology, collaborative agreements, or certifications for prescriptive authority.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses in Illinois must be renewed periodically, with specific continuing education requirements.
- Practice Authority: The scope of APRN practice in Illinois ranges from full independence to collaborative care models, detailed by state law.
- eNLC Participation: Although Illinois is not a part of the eNLC, legislation is pending, which could affect APRN practice across state lines.
- Scope of Practice: Illinois APRNs are authorized to perform comprehensive care within their specialty, emphasizing their critical role in healthcare delivery.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Illinois mandates specific educational, clinical hours, or skills for each APRN role, ensuring specialized competence.
- Transition to Practice: New APRNs or those transitioning from another jurisdiction may undergo a period to ensure readiness for independent practice.
- Insurance and Liability: Malpractice insurance requirements for APRNs in Illinois vary, highlighting the importance of understanding legal obligations and protections.
