Easy Illinois nursing license application checklist 2025 for RNs and LPNs – step-by-step guide

If you’re preparing to apply for your nursing license in Illinois, you’ve likely been searching for a clear, step-by-step resource that tells you exactly what to do and what documents to gather. The Illinois nursing license application checklist 2025 is designed to give RNs and LPNs a straightforward guide through the entire process, whether you’re a new graduate applying by examination or an experienced nurse applying by endorsement.

Instead of sifting through multiple sites or worrying about missing a critical requirement, this guide puts everything you need to know in one place so you can move forward with confidence.

The Illinois Board of Nursing requires all applicants both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to follow specific steps when applying for licensure. These include completing the appropriate application form, submitting proof of education, undergoing fingerprint-based background checks, paying the required fees, and in many cases, registering for and passing the NCLEX exam. Internationally educated nurses may also need credential evaluation and English proficiency testing. While this process can seem overwhelming at first glance, having a clear checklist ensures you don’t miss important deadlines or documents.

This step-by-step guide not only walks you through the Illinois nursing license application checklist 2025 but also explains key differences between applying as an RN or LPN, how endorsement works if you’re licensed in another state, and how to handle renewal and continuing education requirements. It also highlights common mistakes applicants make such as incomplete applications or delayed fingerprint submissions that can slow down approval. By knowing what to expect and preparing in advance, you can save valuable time and avoid unnecessary stress.

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Why is this important? Illinois has a high demand for nurses, and ensuring your application is processed quickly means you can enter the workforce without delays. Whether you’re planning to work in a hospital, long-term care facility, or community health setting, your license is the foundation of your professional career. A complete and accurate application also reflects your professionalism and dedication to patient safety.

In this fast-track 2025 guide, we’ll provide a practical roadmap with detailed checklists, resources, and official links so you know exactly where to go and what to submit. You’ll find clear instructions for new graduates, out-of-state nurses, and international applicants. Plus, we’ll cover license renewal and continuing education requirements to help you stay compliant throughout your career in Illinois.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a complete understanding of the Illinois nursing license application process and a ready-to-use checklist that simplifies the entire journey. Whether you’re an RN or LPN, this resource is built to save you time, reduce confusion, and get you licensed as quickly as possible.

Understanding the Illinois Nursing License Application Process (2025)

Before diving into the Illinois nursing license application checklist 2025, it’s important to understand how the Illinois Board of Nursing (part of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation – IDFPR) manages applications.

The process can vary depending on whether you are applying as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and whether you are:

• A new graduate applying by examination

• A licensed nurse from another state applying by endorsement

• An internationally educated nurse seeking Illinois licensure

The IDFPR requires all applicants to:

1. Submit an official application form online or by mail

2. Provide proof of nursing education (transcripts or credential evaluation)

3. Complete fingerprint-based background checks

4. Pay the required application and processing fees

5. Register for the NCLEX (if applicable)

6. Wait for Board review and official approval

The timeline for approval can range from 4 to 8 weeks depending on how quickly you complete your steps. Missing documents, incorrect payments, or delayed background checks are the most common reasons applications take longer.

By understanding these requirements up front, you’ll be ready to follow the checklist in the next section without missing any critical steps.

Illinois Nursing License Application Checklist 2025 – Step-by-Step

Whether you’re applying as an RN or LPN in Illinois, following a structured checklist helps you avoid delays and mistakes. Below is the complete 2025 Illinois nursing license application checklist:

1. Determine Your Application Path

• By Examination – For recent nursing graduates who have never been licensed.

• By Endorsement – For nurses already licensed in another U.S. state.

• International Applicants – For foreign-trained nurses seeking Illinois licensure.

2. Complete the Online Application with IDFPR

• Submit your application through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) portal.

• Double-check that your name, date of birth, and school information match your official documents.

3. Pay the Required Fees

• RN Application Fee: $50 (approx.)

• LPN Application Fee: $50 (approx.)

• Additional NCLEX fees apply for first-time exam candidates.

4. Submit Official Transcripts or Credential Evaluations

• RNs/LPNs trained in the U.S. must send official transcripts directly from their nursing program.

• International graduates must use a recognized credentialing service such as CGFNS to verify foreign education.

5. Complete Fingerprinting & Background Check

• Schedule electronic fingerprinting with a licensed vendor in Illinois.

• If applying from out of state, request fingerprint cards and submit them by mail.

6. Register for the NCLEX (If Required)

• New RN and LPN graduates must register with Pearson VUE for the NCLEX.

• The IDFPR will issue your Authorization to Test (ATT) once your documents are verified.

7. Wait for Application Review & Approval

• The Board typically takes 4–8 weeks to review applications.

• You’ll be notified by email or through your online account once approved.

Track your application status regularly through the IDFPR portal to ensure no documents are missing.

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Illinois RN License Application Process (2025)

If you’re applying as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Illinois, the process depends on whether you are a new graduate or already licensed elsewhere.

RN by Examination (New Graduates)

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program – Your school must send official transcripts to the IDFPR.

2. Submit an RN application online through the IDFPR portal.

3. Pay the application fee (around $50).

4. Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE and pay the exam fee.

5. Complete fingerprinting and background check with an approved vendor.

6. Receive your ATT (Authorization to Test) once the IDFPR verifies your application.

7. Take the NCLEX-RN exam and wait for results.

8. License issuance – If you pass, your Illinois RN license will be granted.

6–10 weeks depending on background check and exam scheduling.

RN by Endorsement (Licensed in Another State)

1. Submit an endorsement application through the IDFPR system.

2. Provide verification of your active RN license from your current state (use Nursys verification if applicable).

3. Complete fingerprinting and background check.

4. Pay the application fee and submit supporting documents.

5. Wait for IDFPR approval (typically 4–8 weeks).

If you want to start working immediately, Illinois may allow you to request a Temporary Permit while your application is under review.

Illinois LPN License Application Process (2025)

Just like RNs, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Illinois must meet the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) requirements.

The steps vary depending on whether you are a new graduate or already licensed elsewhere.

LPN by Examination (New Graduates)

1. Graduate from an approved practical nursing program – Your school must send official transcripts directly to IDFPR.

2. Submit the LPN application online through the IDFPR portal.

3. Pay the non-refundable application fee (around $50).

4. Register for the NCLEX-PN exam through Pearson VUE.

5. Complete fingerprinting and a state/federal background check.

6. Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) after your application is verified.

7. Take the NCLEX-PN and wait for your official results.

8. Receive your Illinois LPN license if you pass.

Usually 6–10 weeks depending on transcripts, fingerprints, and exam results.

LPN by Endorsement (Licensed in Another State)

1. Submit an endorsement application via the IDFPR system.

2. Provide verification of your LPN license from your current state (through Nursys if applicable).

3. Complete fingerprinting and background check with an Illinois-approved vendor.

4. Pay the endorsement fee and upload all supporting documents.

5. Receive your Illinois LPN license after approval (average 4–8 weeks).

Request a Temporary Permit if you need to begin working while waiting for full license approval.

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Illinois Nursing License Application for International Nurses (2025)

If you completed your nursing education outside the United States, Illinois requires additional steps before granting an RN or LPN license. This ensures your credentials meet U.S. and Illinois standards.

Key Requirements for International Applicants

1. Credential Evaluation – You must have your nursing education evaluated by a board-approved service such as CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators). The evaluation must be sent directly to the IDFPR.

2. English Language Proficiency – If your nursing program was not conducted in English, you may need to pass an approved English test such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic.

3. Application Submission – Apply online through the IDFPR portal for either RN or LPN licensure.

4. NCLEX Registration – Foreign-trained nurses must also register and pass the NCLEX-RN (for Registered Nurses) or NCLEX-PN (for Practical Nurses).

5. Background Check & Fingerprinting – Required for all applicants, including international nurses.

6. VisaScreen (for employment) – If you plan to work in the U.S. under a visa, you’ll need to complete a VisaScreen certificate from CGFNS to verify your qualifications for immigration purposes.

International applications often take longer (3–6 months) due to credential evaluations and document verifications.

Start your credential evaluation early, since this step is often the biggest cause of delays in getting licensed in Illinois.

Illinois Nursing License Fees and Processing Times (2025)

Understanding the costs and expected timelines is crucial when planning your Illinois nursing license application. Both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) pay different fees depending on their application type.

Application Fees

• RN by Examination (New Graduates): $98

• LPN by Examination: $50

• RN by Endorsement (Out-of-State Applicants): $50

• LPN by Endorsement: $50

• Temporary Permit (Optional, while waiting): $25

All fees are non-refundable and must be paid online through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) portal.

Other Costs to Expect

• NCLEX Registration Fee (via Pearson VUE): $200

• Fingerprinting/Background Check: $60–$75 (varies by vendor)

• Credential Evaluation (for International Nurses): $200–$400 depending on the service (CGFNS or ECE).

Processing Times

• New Graduate RN/LPN Applications: 6–10 weeks (after transcripts and fingerprints are received).

• Endorsement Applications: 4–8 weeks (may take longer if license verification from another state delays).

• International Applicants: 3–6 months (due to evaluation and additional documentation).

Submitting complete and accurate documents, and using Nursys for license verification (if applicable), can speed up the approval process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Illinois Nursing License Application (2025)

Even though the Illinois nursing license application process seems straightforward, many RNs and LPNs experience delays because of small errors.

Avoiding these mistakes can save weeks of waiting time and unnecessary stress.

1. Submitting Incomplete Applications

Leaving out required sections on the IDFPR online application or failing to upload supporting documents (like transcripts or name change records) is one of the most common errors. Always double-check your application before submitting.

2. Delaying Fingerprinting and Background Checks

Since your license cannot be issued without cleared fingerprints, waiting too long to schedule this step may cause significant delays. Complete fingerprinting as soon as you submit your application.

3. Incorrect or Missing Transcripts

New graduates must ensure their school sends final, official transcripts directly to IDFPR. Unofficial copies, or transcripts sent by the applicant instead of the school, will not be accepted.

4. Not Registering for the NCLEX on Time

Applicants for initial RN or LPN licensure must register with Pearson VUE and pay the NCLEX fee early. If you delay, you won’t receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) on time.

5. Ignoring CE Requirements for Renewal

For renewals, many nurses assume continuing education isn’t mandatory, but failing to meet CE requirements (especially the sexual harassment training) can result in a rejected renewal.

6. Waiting Until the Deadline

Whether you are applying for a new license, endorsement, or renewal, waiting until the last week creates unnecessary stress. Early submission allows time to fix any issues if IDFPR requests corrections.

Keep a personal checklist of all steps from transcripts to fees and track each item as it’s completed. This helps you stay organized and ensures a smooth approval.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Illinois Nursing License Application (2025)

To simplify the process, here’s a complete checklist you can follow for both RNs and LPNs applying in Illinois. Whether you’re a new graduate or applying by endorsement, keeping this list handy will help you stay on track.

For New RN or LPN Applicants (by Examination)

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program (RN or LPN level).

2. Request official transcripts be sent directly from your school to IDFPR.

3. Create an account on the IDFPR online licensing portal.

4. Complete the application form and pay the application fee.

   • RN Fee: $100

   • LPN Fee: $50

5. Register for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE and pay the exam fee.

6. Complete fingerprinting and background check with a licensed vendor.

7. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) and schedule your NCLEX exam.

8. Pass the NCLEX exam.

9. Wait for license issuance — once all documents are verified, IDFPR will update your status online.

For Applicants by Endorsement (RNs & LPNs licensed in another state)

1. Apply online through the IDFPR portal.

2. Submit license verification via Nursys (if your state participates).

3. Provide official transcripts (if required).

4. Complete fingerprinting and background check in Illinois or via out-of-state fingerprinting services.

5. Pay the endorsement application fee.

6. Submit any name change documents (if applicable).

7. Receive your Illinois RN or LPN license once IDFPR confirms all requirements.

Print this checklist and keep it handy while applying. Crossing off each step helps ensure you don’t miss any critical requirement that could delay your license.

Processing Times and What to Expect After Submission (2025)

Once you’ve submitted your application and completed all checklist items, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) will begin reviewing your file. Processing times can vary depending on the type of application:

• New Graduate (By Examination): Typically 4–6 weeks, depending on how quickly your transcripts and background check are received.

• Endorsement Applicants (RNs & LPNs): Usually 3–5 weeks if your verification is available through Nursys. If your previous state does not participate in Nursys, it may take longer.

• International Nurses: Processing can take 8–12 weeks because of the additional credential evaluation and document verification required.

What Happens During Review:

• Background Check Verification: Your fingerprint report must clear before your license can be issued.

• Education & Transcript Review: IDFPR confirms your nursing program meets Illinois standards.

• Exam Results (if applicable): Pearson VUE sends NCLEX results directly to the Board.

• Final Approval: Once everything is verified, your license number will be posted in the IDFPR online lookup system.

Submit all documents at the same time and use Nursys for verification whenever possible. Incomplete applications are the #1 cause of delays.

Fees, Renewal, and Continuing Education Requirements (2025)

Understanding the financial and professional upkeep of your Illinois nursing license is just as important as getting it in the first place. Here’s what you need to know for 2025:

Application & Exam Fees

• RN Initial License (by exam): $100

• LPN Initial License (by exam): $50

• Endorsement Application Fee: $50–$100 (depending on license type)

• NCLEX Examination Fee (through Pearson VUE): $200 (separate from IDFPR fees)

• Fingerprinting/Background Check: $60–$80 (varies by vendor)

Renewal Requirements

• Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years (all nursing licenses in Illinois expire on May 31 of even-numbered years).

• Renewal Fee: $80 for RNs, $60 for LPNs (subject to change).

• Online Renewal: Completed through the IDFPR portal.

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

To renew your Illinois RN or LPN license, you must complete 20 hours of approved continuing education (CE) during each renewal cycle.

• At least 1 hour must cover sexual harassment prevention training.

• CE credits can be earned online or in-person from IDFPR-approved providers.

• Newly licensed nurses renewing for the first time are usually exempt from CE requirements.

Keep copies of your CE certificates for at least 5 years in case of an audit. Failure to provide proof can delay renewal or result in fines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an Illinois Nursing License (2025)

Even the most qualified nurses can face setbacks if they miss small but critical steps. Here are the most frequent mistakes and how you can avoid them:

1. Submitting an Incomplete Application

Many applicants forget to upload or mail required documents, such as transcripts or background check confirmations. Incomplete files are the #1 cause of processing delays.
Tip: Use the IDFPR checklist and confirm each item is uploaded or mailed before submitting.

2. Delayed Fingerprinting

Your background check must be submitted to the Illinois State Police and matched with your application. If fingerprints aren’t sent promptly, your application will stall.
Tip: Schedule fingerprinting immediately after submitting your application.

3. Not Using Nursys for License Verification

Applicants by endorsement sometimes request verification directly from their old board instead of using Nursys. This takes longer and may lead to missing documents.
Tip: Always check if your state participates in Nursys—it’s faster and electronically verified.

4. Overlooking Continuing Education for Renewal

Some nurses assume CE requirements don’t apply to them. Missing hours can block your renewal.
Tip: Track CE hours early in the renewal cycle instead of rushing at the last minute.

5. Providing Inconsistent Information

Discrepancies in names, addresses, or employment history across documents can trigger reviews.
Tip: Double-check all forms, transcripts, and IDs for consistent details.

Careful attention to detail can save you weeks—or even months—in processing time.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Illinois Nursing License Application (2025)

Whether you’re applying by exam or endorsement, this checklist will help you stay organized and on track.

For First-Time Applicants (By Examination)

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program (RN or LPN).

2. Apply online through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) portal.

3. Pay application fee ($100 for RNs, $50 for LPNs).

4. Register for the NCLEX exam through Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee.

5. Submit official transcripts directly from your nursing school to IDFPR.

6. Complete fingerprinting with an approved vendor and ensure results are sent to IDFPR.

7. Take and pass the NCLEX on your scheduled date.

8. Check license status online through IDFPR once all requirements are met.

For Out-of-State Applicants (By Endorsement)

1. Verify your current license via Nursys (or request verification from your state board if not a participant).

2. Submit application online through IDFPR with the appropriate fee.

3. Provide official transcripts (if requested).

4. Complete fingerprinting and background check in Illinois or via out-of-state vendor with approved forms.

5. Submit employment verification (if required by IDFPR for endorsement review).

6. Track application status online and respond promptly to any IDFPR requests for additional documentation.

For Internationally-Educated Nurses

1. Obtain credential evaluation (e.g., through CGFNS or another IDFPR-approved agency).

2. Submit English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS), unless educated in English.

3. Apply through IDFPR for RN/LPN license by exam or endorsement.

4. Register for and pass the NCLEX.

5. Complete fingerprinting/background check for Illinois.

Always keep a personal copy of every document submitted, including receipts and email confirmations.

Conclusion & Key Takeaways

Applying for your nursing license in Illinois may feel overwhelming, but with the right checklist and preparation, the process is straightforward. Whether you are a recent graduate sitting for the NCLEX, an experienced nurse moving to Illinois by endorsement, or an internationally educated nurse seeking recognition of your credentials, the Illinois nursing license application checklist 2025 for RNs and LPNs gives you a clear path forward.

Here are the main takeaways to remember:

• Start early – gathering transcripts, background checks, and verifications can take time.

• Use the IDFPR online portal for a faster and more efficient application process.

• Stay organized – keep copies of all receipts, confirmation numbers, and mailed forms.

• Track your application status online regularly to avoid delays.

• Prepare for the NCLEX if applying by examination, and register early to secure a convenient test date.

  Official Government & Licensing Boards

  1. Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR – Nursing Board)

     • Main authority for nursing license applications in Illinois.

     • https://idfpr.illinois.gov

  2. Illinois Center for Nursing (ICN)

     • Provides workforce data, nursing education resources, and updates on licensure requirements.

     • https://nursing.illinois.gov

  3. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)

     • Official site for NCLEX exam registration, requirements, and nurse licensure guidance.

     • https://www.ncsbn.org

  4. Pearson VUE – NCLEX Testing

     • Official testing vendor for the NCLEX exam, required for Illinois RN/LPN licensure.

     • https://home.pearsonvue.com/nclex