Virginia Nursing License Requirements & Renewals for RN and APRN 2026

Virginia Nursing Schools

Nursing License in Virginia at A Glance

TypeStatus
eNLCYes
Walk-ThroughYes
Temp LicenseYes
NursysYes
BON WebsiteVirginia Board of Nursing
Contact Phone(804) 367-4515
Nursing License in Virginia

Nursing License in Virginia

Steps, Timelines and Cost for Nursing Licenses in Virginia

The process to earn a nursing license in Virginia includes several steps:

Step in Licensure ProcessTimeframeCost
Complete Nursing Program (ADN/BSN)2-4 years (ADN), 4 years (BSN)$10,000 – $60,000+
Register for NCLEX ExamVaries$200 – $500
Fingerprinting/Background CheckDepends on state$50 – $100
Take NCLEX ExamOnce registeredIncluded in registration
Await NCLEX ResultsUp to 6 weeks typicallyN/A
Apply for State LicensureAfter passing NCLEXRNs: $190.00, LPNs: $170.00
Temporary License IssuedApproximately 1-2 daysSometimes additional cost
Obtain Official Nursing LicenseApproximately 30 business daysIncluded in application fee
Renewal of LicenseEvery 2 yearsRNs: $140.00, LPNs: $120.00
Continuing EducationYearly usuallyVaries

Key Highlights for Virginia Nursing Licenses

  • Nursing Programs: Duration and cost for nursing programs in Virginia vary, with ADN programs typically taking 2-4 years and BSN programs around 4 years. Costs range from $10,000 to over $60,000.
  • NCLEX Authorization: Steps for obtaining authorization include applying to the Virginia Board of Nursing and registering for the NCLEX exam. The cost ranges from $200 to $500.
  • NCLEX Registration and Background Checks: Costs for NCLEX registration and any associated fingerprinting or background check fees typically range between $50 and $100.
  • NCLEX Test Results Wait Time: Nurses in Virginia typically wait up to 6 weeks to receive their NCLEX test results.
  • State Licensure Application: The application process includes fees of $190.00 for RNs and $170.00 for LPNs. The expected processing time for a permanent license is approximately 30 business days.
  • Temporary Licenses: Virginia issues temporary licenses approximately 1-2 days from receipt of all required materials, with additional costs sometimes incurred.
  • Official Nursing License: The timeframe for obtaining the official nursing license in Virginia is approximately 30 business days, with fees included in the initial application cost.
  • License Renewal: License renewal in Virginia occurs every 2 years during the licensee’s birth month, with fees of $140.00 for RNs and $120.00 for LPNs.

Virginia Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses

In Virginia, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) include various specialized roles, each requiring specific education and certification.

  • Education Requirements: APRNs in Virginia must have completed a graduate-level education program in one of the recognized APRN roles: Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM).
  • Certification: APRNs must obtain national certification in their chosen role from an approved certifying body.
  • State Licensure: The Virginia Board of Nursing regulates APRN practice, requiring an application, fees, proof of education and certification, and sometimes a background check.
  • Prescriptive Authority: APRNs in Virginia may have the authority to prescribe medications, subject to state regulations.
  • Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses must be renewed periodically, with requirements for continuing education or practice hours.
  • Practice Authority: In Virginia, APRNs have restricted practice authority. More information can be found in the Virginia Nursing Practice Act.
  • eNLC Participation: APRNs practicing in Virginia can practice in other eNLC states without obtaining additional licenses.
  • Scope of Practice: The scope of practice for APRNs in Virginia is defined by state law and includes patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management.
  • Role-Specific Requirements: Each APRN role has specific requirements related to education, clinical hours, or specialized skills.
  • Transition to Practice: Virginia may require supervised practice hours for new APRNs.
  • Insurance and Liability: APRNs in Virginia should be aware of malpractice insurance requirements and may need to secure their own policy depending on their employment situation and state regulations.
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