Ultimate Guide: How to Apply for a California RN License in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you’re a nurse planning to live and work in California, knowing how to apply for a California RN license in 2025 is essential. California is home to some of the highest-paying nursing jobs in the United States, but the licensing process through the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.
Whether you are a new nursing graduate, an out-of-state RN, or an internationally educated nurse, this guide will walk you through the exact steps required to successfully apply for and obtain your California RN license.
The application process involves more than just filling out forms. You’ll need to submit proof of nursing education, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, complete a fingerprint-based background check, and pay the necessary licensing fees. For internationally educated nurses, the requirements may also include credential evaluation and English proficiency exams such as IELTS or TOEFL. Missing any of these steps can lead to costly delays or even denial of your application.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about applying for a California RN license in 2025—from eligibility requirements and required documents, to fees, timelines, and exam preparation tips. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap that will save you time, reduce stress, and help you confidently move forward in your nursing career.
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Step 1: Understand the California RN License Requirements
Before starting your application, it’s important to understand the basic eligibility requirements for a California RN license in 2025.
The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) sets specific rules depending on whether you are a:
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First-time U.S. nursing graduate (from a California or out-of-state nursing program)
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Internationally educated nurse (trained outside the U.S.)
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Already licensed RN in another U.S. state (seeking endorsement in California)
General Requirements Include:
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Completion of an approved nursing education program (associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing)
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Proof of clinical and theory hours in key nursing areas such as Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Psychiatric Nursing
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Passing the NCLEX-RN exam (or eligibility to take it)
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Submitting official transcripts directly to the BRN
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Completing a fingerprint-based criminal background check
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Paying the non-refundable application and processing fees
Why This Step Matters
Many applicants face delays because they don’t meet California’s strict education or documentation standards. For example, international nurses may need to complete a credential evaluation to prove that their training matches U.S. standards. By reviewing the requirements first, you’ll avoid common mistakes and ensure your application moves smoothly through the approval process.
Always download the latest California RN License Application Packet directly from the California BRN website to make sure you’re following the most updated requirements for 2025.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents for Your California RN License Application
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the next step in how to apply for a California RN license in 2025 is preparing the correct documents. Missing or incomplete paperwork is one of the most common reasons why applications are delayed, so getting this step right is crucial.
Core Documents Needed for All Applicants
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Completed Application Form – Submit the California RN license application online or by mail.
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Official Transcripts – Sent directly from your nursing school to the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Hand-delivered or photocopied transcripts are not accepted.
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Proof of Graduation – A certificate or letter from your nursing program verifying that you completed required theory and clinical hours.
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Valid Identification – Such as a government-issued passport, driver’s license, or state ID.
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Fingerprinting/Background Check Form – Required for both U.S. and internationally educated nurses.
Additional Documents for International Nurses
If you completed your nursing education outside the U.S., you’ll also need:
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Credential Evaluation Report – From a BRN-approved agency (such as CGFNS or IERF), showing your nursing education is equivalent to U.S. standards.
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English Proficiency Test Results – IELTS or TOEFL scores may be required unless your nursing education was taught in English.
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Foreign Transcript Breakdown – Detailing theory and clinical hours for subjects like pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric, and medical-surgical nursing.
Why This Step Is Critical
The BRN carefully reviews every document to confirm that your education and qualifications meet California standards. Even a small error, such as a missing transcript or incorrect credential evaluation, can delay your application for months.
Request transcripts and evaluations as early as possible since schools and agencies often take weeks—or even months—to process requests.
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Step 3: Submit Your Application & Pay the Fees
After gathering all required documents, the next step in how to apply for a California RN license in 2025 is officially submitting your application to the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and paying the necessary fees.
How to Submit Your Application
You have two options when applying:
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Online Application (Recommended) – The BRN’s BreEZe online system allows you to complete your application electronically, upload supporting documents, and track your status in real time.
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Paper Application (By Mail) – You can download the application packet from the BRN website, complete it manually, and mail it with your documents and payment.
Application Fees (2025 Estimates)
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Initial California RN License (By Examination): $300 (non-refundable)
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Fingerprinting/Background Check: $49 (for California applicants using Live Scan) or $95+ (for out-of-state/international applicants via fingerprint cards)
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International Evaluation Fees: $350–$450 (depending on the credentialing agency, paid separately to CGFNS or IERF)
Payment Methods
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Online applicants can pay via credit/debit card.
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Mailed applications typically require a check or money order payable to the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Why This Step Matters
Submitting your application and fees correctly ensures your file is officially entered into the BRN system. Once your payment is processed, the BRN begins reviewing your documents, verifying your eligibility, and preparing you for the next stage: NCLEX-RN exam authorization.
Keep copies of everything you submit (including receipts). If the BRN requests clarification later, having these records will save you time and stress.
Step 3: Submit Your Application & Pay the Fees
After gathering all required documents, the next step in how to apply for a California RN license in 2025 is officially submitting your application to the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and paying the necessary fees.
How to Submit Your Application
You have two options when applying:
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Online Application (Recommended) – The BRN’s BreEZe online system allows you to complete your application electronically, upload supporting documents, and track your status in real time.
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Paper Application (By Mail) – You can download the application packet from the BRN website, complete it manually, and mail it with your documents and payment.
Application Fees (2025 Estimates)
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Initial California RN License (By Examination): $300 (non-refundable)
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Fingerprinting/Background Check: $49 (for California applicants using Live Scan) or $95+ (for out-of-state/international applicants via fingerprint cards)
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International Evaluation Fees: $350–$450 (depending on the credentialing agency, paid separately to CGFNS or IERF)
Payment Methods
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Online applicants can pay via credit/debit card.
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Mailed applications typically require a check or money order payable to the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Why This Step Matters
Submitting your application and fees correctly ensures your file is officially entered into the BRN system. Once your payment is processed, the BRN begins reviewing your documents, verifying your eligibility, and preparing you for the next stage: NCLEX-RN exam authorization.
Keep copies of everything you submit (including receipts). If the BRN requests clarification later, having these records will save you time and stress.
Step 5: Apply for NCLEX-RN Exam Authorization
One of the most crucial parts of how to apply for a California RN license in 2025 is registering for and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
This exam measures your ability to safely and effectively begin practicing as a registered nurse in the U.S.
How to Apply for NCLEX Authorization
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Submit Application to BRN – Once your California RN license application and documents are under review, the BRN will determine your eligibility to take the NCLEX.
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Register with Pearson VUE – Visit the Pearson VUE website (the official NCLEX testing provider) and create an account.
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Pay the NCLEX exam fee of $200.
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Keep your confirmation email for records.
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Authorization to Test (ATT) – After the BRN confirms your eligibility, you’ll receive your ATT via email. This allows you to schedule your NCLEX exam.
Scheduling the Exam
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You can book your NCLEX test date through Pearson VUE once you receive your ATT.
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Testing centers are available across the U.S. and internationally.
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You must schedule your exam within the ATT validity period (usually 90 days).
Preparing for the Exam
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Focus on core areas: Medical-Surgical, Pediatric, Obstetric, Psychiatric, and Pharmacology nursing.
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Use NCLEX prep books, question banks, and practice exams.
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Allocate at least 6–12 weeks of dedicated study time depending on your readiness.
Why This Step Is Critical
Passing the NCLEX-RN is mandatory for licensure. Without it, even if all your documents and fees are submitted, you cannot be issued a California RN license.
Register with Pearson VUE at the same time you apply with the BRN to save processing time and get your ATT faster.
Step 6: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam & Receive Your Results
After scheduling your exam, the next milestone in how to apply for a California RN license in 2025 is passing the NCLEX-RN. This computer-adaptive test ensures you have the knowledge and decision-making skills needed to practice safely as a registered nurse.
On Exam Day
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Arrive at your chosen Pearson VUE testing center at least 30 minutes early.
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Bring a valid, government-issued ID (matching your ATT).
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The exam may take up to 5 hours, with scheduled breaks.
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Question formats include multiple-choice, multiple-response, drag-and-drop, and case studies.
How the NCLEX is Scored
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The exam uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT).
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It adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your answers.
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You may answer anywhere from 75 to 145 questions before the system determines if you pass or fail.
Receiving Your Results
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Quick Results (Unofficial): Available within 48 hours on Pearson VUE (for an additional $7.95 fee).
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Official Results: Sent directly to the California BRN. The BRN will notify you of your pass/fail status by mail or email.
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If you pass, you move to the final licensing stage. If you don’t, you may reapply and retake the NCLEX after a waiting period (usually 45 days).
Why This Step Is Vital
The NCLEX-RN is the final barrier between you and your California RN license. Passing demonstrates that you meet U.S. nursing practice standards and are ready to provide safe, effective care to patients.
Practice with NCLEX-style question banks under timed conditions to build confidence and reduce test-day anxiety.
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Step 7: Receive Your California RN License
Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN, you’re at the final stage of how to apply for a California RN license in 2025—receiving your official license from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).
What Happens After You Pass the NCLEX
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BRN Review: The BRN will verify that your NCLEX results, background check, and documents are complete.
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License Issuance: If everything is approved, your California RN license number will be issued and posted on the BRN’s online verification system.
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Official Notification: You’ll receive a hard copy of your license by mail (this may take 2–4 weeks).
How to Check Your License Status
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Visit the California BRN License Verification Portal.
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Enter your name or application number to see if your license has been issued.
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This online posting serves as your proof of licensure while waiting for the physical license.
License Validity & Renewal
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A California RN license is valid for two years.
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Renewal requires:
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30 hours of continuing education (CE)
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A renewal fee (around $190 as of 2025)
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An updated background check if requested by the BRN
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Why This Step Matters
This is the official confirmation that you can legally work as a registered nurse in California. Employers can verify your license online, allowing you to start applying for jobs immediately.
Keep your contact details updated with the BRN so you don’t miss renewal notices or important communications.
Final Summary & Key Takeaways
Applying for a California RN license may seem complex, but by following the right steps, you can make the process smooth and stress-free. In this guide, we’ve broken down how to apply for a California RN license in 2025 into seven clear stages:
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Understand the Requirements – Know if you qualify as a U.S. graduate, international nurse, or endorsement applicant.
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Gather the Required Documents – Prepare transcripts, credential evaluations, and proof of identification.
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Submit Your Application & Fees – Apply online or by mail through the BRN.
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Complete Fingerprinting & Background Check – Ensure your record clears before licensure.
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Apply for NCLEX-RN Exam Authorization – Register with Pearson VUE and wait for your ATT.
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Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam – Demonstrate your nursing knowledge and clinical judgment.
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Receive Your California RN License – Begin your career in one of the best-paying nursing states in the U.S.
By completing these steps carefully, you’ll avoid delays, meet all BRN requirements, and secure your license to practice in California. With high demand for nurses and competitive salaries, California offers excellent opportunities for career growth, whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced international nurse.
Always check the California Board of Registered Nursing website for the latest updates, as requirements and fees may change.
External Resources for Applying for a California RN License in 2025
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California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) – Official Website
👉 https://www.rn.ca.gov-
The official site for California RN licensure, applications, requirements, and updates.
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California BRN BreEZe Online Licensing System
👉 https://www.breeze.ca.gov-
Portal to apply online, track application status, and renew RN licenses.
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Pearson VUE – NCLEX Registration
👉 https://home.pearsonvue.com/nclex-
Official site to register for the NCLEX-RN exam, schedule your test, and access resources.
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CGFNS International – Credential Evaluation Services
👉https://www.cgfns.org-
For international nurses needing credential evaluation to meet California BRN standards.
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International Education Research Foundation (IERF)
👉 https://www.ierf.org-
Another BRN-approved evaluation service for foreign nursing credentials.
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U.S. Department of Justice – FBI Background Checks
👉 https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks-
Information on fingerprinting and federal background checks.
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National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
👉https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex.htm-
Comprehensive NCLEX resources, exam format, and preparation tips.
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California Department of Consumer Affairs – License Verification
👉https://search.dca.ca.gov-
Verify your California RN license status once it is issued.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To apply, you must submit an application to the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), provide official transcripts, complete a fingerprint background check, pay the application fee, and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. International nurses may also need a credential evaluation and proof of English proficiency.
In 2025, the estimated costs include:
Application fee: $300
Fingerprinting/background check: $49–$95
NCLEX exam fee: $200
Credential evaluation (for international nurses): $350–$450
Total costs vary depending on whether you’re applying from within the U.S. or internationally.
Processing time varies, but most applicants can expect 3–6 months from the date of submission. International applicants may take longer due to transcript verification and credential evaluation delays.
Yes, if your nursing education was not taught in English, you’ll need to pass an English proficiency test such as IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT. Scores must meet the BRN’s minimum requirements.
No. You must wait until your RN license is issued and listed on the BRN verification portal before working as a registered nurse in California.
California RN licenses are valid for two years. Renewal requires completing 30 hours of continuing education (CE) and paying the renewal fee (around $190).
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