Become a Nurse in California: Requirements, Licensing, and Employment Outlook
Registered nurses (RNs) in California can anticipate promising professional trajectories. California boasts the highest number of employed RNs and the most substantial average salaries in the U.S. Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a job growth rate for RNs in the state at 7% between 2019-2029, surpassing the national average. If you’re contemplating obtaining a California nursing license, this guide furnishes comprehensive information about salaries, employment prospects, and licensure requirements for nursing in California.
Degree Required: ADN or BSN
License Required: Registered Nursing License
Fees: License: ($300) & Renewal: ($190)
Job Outlook: 16.7% growth from 2019-2029
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Nevertheless, to practice as an RN in California legally, acquiring a registered nursing license from the state is imperative. The licensure process ensures candidates fulfill the requisite education, supervised experience, and examination criteria. This guide systematically outlines the steps necessary to obtain a California nursing license.
Top Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs in California of 2024 & 2025
How to Become a Nurse in California
The journey to pursuing a nursing career in California commences with education. Aspiring RNs must earn an accredited degree to qualify for licensure, with accreditation ensuring that academic programs deliver a high-quality education. The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) exclusively considers candidates with accredited degrees.
A nursing degree can span from 2-4 years, potentially longer for part-time students. After graduation, candidates must take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX). Following successful completion of the exam, candidates can apply for BRN licensure.
1. Apply to an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN) program:
The path to becoming an RN starts with obtaining a two-year ADN or a four-year BSN. Although both degrees allow graduates to apply for RN licensure, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) encourages students to pursue a BSN for better preparation for the challenges of nursing.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to receive RN licensure:
After obtaining an ADN or BSN, RN candidates must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN, testing their nursing knowledge. The exam is typically taken on a computer at a testing center, with the BRN recommending test-takers schedule it soon after graduation.
3. Apply for jobs at local hospitals:
When deciding where to apply, nurses should consider their desired role, salary, and benefits.
4. Advance your career with a graduate degree or certification:
To advance professionally or financially, consider earning an advanced degree or becoming certified in a specialty within the nursing field.
5. Maintain and renew licensure and certifications:
Nurses in California must complete 30 hours of continuing education annually from their third year of nursing onwards. Additionally, a full background check is required for license renewal.
California Board of Nursing
The BRN is the governing body in the state responsible for licensing and overseeing nurses. Its role is to safeguard patient health and safety by ensuring the quality of the state’s nurses. The board also investigates grievances and takes disciplinary action when necessary.
Moreover, the BRN provides support for nurses facing challenges due to substance abuse or mental illness. It also facilitates the licensing process for new and out-of-state nurses seeking to practice in California through examination or endorsement. The board offers a pathway for nurses to renew their license, enabling them to continue practicing in the state.
How to Get Your Nursing License in California
There are two licensing options for nurses aspiring to work in California: licensure by examination and licensure by endorsement. Licensure by examination necessitates passing the NCLEX-RN for nursing applicants. Those wanting to practice in California must pass the exam, even if they have previously worked in other states, as not all states mandate the exam. Licensure by endorsement requires applicants to have an active license from another state and pass the NCLEX-RN.
California also mandates educational prerequisites, including courses developing communication skills and natural sciences-related coursework.
Licensure for New Nurses
New nurses in California must meet various eligibility requirements before applying for a license. Once eligible, applicants can complete the necessary steps to become licensed nurses in California.
RN Licensure Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a license to practice in the state, the BRN requires prospective nurses to meet several eligibility requirements:
– Associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in nursing from an accredited academic institution.
– Academic prerequisites: Communication skills (oral, written, and/or group communication) and natural sciences (anatomy, physiology, microbiology, behavioral sciences, and/or social sciences).
– Pass the NCLEX-RN ($300 fee for CA graduates; $350 for non-CA graduates; $750 for international graduates).
– Complete a fingerprint background check ($49).
– Apply for an interim permit to work in a supervised setting while awaiting NCLEX-RN results (optional; application fee: $100).
Steps to Apply for an RN License
Once a nurse meets the eligibility requirements as outlined by the BRN, the next step is to apply for an RN license:
1. Complete the application for licensure by exam.
2. Provide SSN, fingerprint card, passport-style photograph, and transcripts.
3. If applicable, provide a request for accommodation of disabilities form and documents explaining previous disciplinary actions.
4. International applicants need to provide the same materials as U.S. applicants, including a license or diploma allowing them to practice nursing in their country. Initial evaluation of the application can take 10-12 weeks; NCLEX-RN results take 2-3 weeks.
Resources
- Licensure by Exam: Online Application
- NCLEX-RN Information: Resources related to the NCLEX exam
- “NCLEX Using CAT” Video: Explanation of changes with regard to the NCLEX exam
- Pearson VUE: Information regarding the administration of the NCLEX exam
Licensure for Nurses From a Different State
To qualify for licensure by endorsement, the applicant must hold an active license from another state and meet specific academic prerequisites required by the BRN. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for their California license.
Steps to Apply for an RN License
Here are the various steps applicants need to follow to earn their license by endorsement to practice in California:
1. Complete the application for licensure by endorsement (application fee: $350).
2. Provide SSN, fingerprint card, 2″ x 2″ passport-type photograph, and transcripts.
3. Complete the verification of license form (expires 90 days from the request date).
4. Provide documents explaining previous disciplinary actions if applicable.
5. Request a temporary license to practice while awaiting approval of the permanent license (optional).
Initial evaluation must be completed within 90 days of receiving the application.
Resources
Licensure by Endorsement: Online Application
How to Renew Your Nursing License in California
Nurses must undergo license renewal and fulfill additional obligations every two years to maintain active practice. During renewal, applicants pay a $10 fee allocated to the RN Education Fund. License renewal is facilitated electronically through BreEZe Online Services.
Requirements:
1. Continuing Education: California RNs are obliged to complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education before each renewal, excluding their initial two licensed years. The educational provider must be approved by the BRN.
2. Fingerprints: Renewal applicants must submit a complete set of fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI.
3. Discipline/Convictions: At the renewal stage, applicants must disclose any disciplinary issues or convictions.
The cost of license renewal varies based on nursing specializations. For RN renewal, the fee is $190. However, specialization fees can range from $750 if paid on time to delinquent fees ranging from $187-$1,125.
Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in California
According to BLS data, California employs over 300,000 registered nurses, making it the state with the highest RN employment in the U.S. Moreover, California stands out as the highest-paying state for registered nurses. BLS data reveals that RNs in the state earn an annual mean wage of $120,560, significantly surpassing the national mean wage of $80,010.
Interestingly, the top 10 highest-paying metropolitan areas for RNs in the U.S. are all located in California. San Jose leads as the highest-paying city, with registered nurses earning a mean pay of about $155,980.
| Metropolitan Area | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $155,980 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward | $155,170 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield | $150,850 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade | $137,040 |
| Salinas | $132,650 |
Source: BLS
Best Hospitals to Work as a Nurse in California
The following hospitals are derived from U.S. News & World Report’s list of the best hospitals in California. Rankings consider factors like patient outcomes, experience, expert opinions, nurse staffing, and patient volume.
1. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center:
Located in Los Angeles, it has 886 beds and treats over 50,000 patients annually in departments like oncology, women’s health, pediatrics, and orthopedics.
2. University of California, San Francisco Medical Center:
With 2,500 nurses, it serves 30,000 admitted patients and 750,000 visitors annually, holding the Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
3. Scripps La Jolla Hospitals:
Operating in San Diego and La Jolla, this $2.9 billion nonprofit has around 15,000 employees offering services in 60 specialties.
4. University of California Davis Medical Center:
Located in Sacramento, it serves 33 counties and six million residents, employing about 1,800 nurses with varying degrees and certifications.
5. MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center:
With locations in Long Beach, Laguna Hills, and Fountain Valley, it employs about 4,000 RNs offering services in joint replacement, weight loss surgery, imaging, and radiology.
Resources for Nurses in California
California Nurses Association (CNA):
The largest professional association advocating for increased healthcare rights and negotiating collective bargaining agreements for RNs.
United Nurses Association of California (UNAC):
Advocates for universal health coverage to provide immediate care for those unable to afford medical care.
California Nursing Students’ Association (CNSA):
Part of the National Student Nursing Association, providing assistance for additional educational opportunities and professional growth.
Association of California Nurse Leaders (ACNL):
Comprising nursing community leaders, providing continuing educational development and scholarship opportunities through their philanthropic program Circles of Giving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to become a nurse in California?
The duration varies; 2-3 years for an associate degree, 4 years for a bachelor’s, and an additional 1-2 years for a master’s. After earning a degree, it typically takes 10-12 weeks to process the license application.
2. What is the fastest way to become a nurse in California?
Pursue an associate degree in nursing, which can be completed within two years. After program completion, passing the NCLEX-RN and applying for a license takes an additional 10-12 weeks.
3. Can a nurse live comfortably in California?
Despite the high cost of living, the mean wage for an RN in California is approximately $120,560. Living away from pricier areas allows nurses to comfortably reside in a state with one of the highest average salaries in the profession.
4. Are nurses in demand in California?
Yes, according to Projections Central, registered nursing positions in California are expected to increase by 16.7% between 2019-2029, placing the state among the top for nursing employment.
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