New Jersey Nurse Licensing Guide

Permanent License

The BON does not comment on a timeframe for permanent licensure.

Process

1. Submit an application online and pay the fee. The process is the same for RNs and LPNs, and you can view a checklist of required items and instructions on the New Jersey licensing portal.
2. Upload the following attachments at the end of the application online:
   

• A clear, full-face passport photograph (2” x 2”) of your head and shoulders taken within the past six months. Sign your name on the back of the photo.
• If you are a United States-born citizen, upload a copy of your Birth Certificate or United States Passport.
  
• If you are a naturalized United States citizen, upload a copy of your United States Passport or Certificate of Naturalization. If you are a legal alien or other immigration status, upload your USCIS immigration documents, both the front and the back of your card.
  
• If your name differs from that on your Birth Certificate, upload documentation of your proof of a legal name change (i.e., marriage license, divorce decree, court order, if applicable).

3. Request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and from all other states where you have ever been licensed. If these states do not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the New Jersey BON via the Verification of License form on page 15 of the New Jersey courtesy license application (PDF).
4. Provide a background check with fingerprints. The BON will send you a fingerprinting card to complete. Do not complete fingerprints until you receive this card from the Board, or your fingerprints will be rejected.

• In-State: The Board will forward you information about how to schedule an appointment to have your fingerprints electronically recorded. If you live in the metropolitan New Jersey area, you will receive digital fingerprint information via regular mail. Please schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
• Out-of-State: The Board will forward to you one state and one federal fingerprint card. You must have your fingerprints recorded on the cards provided, by your local police department, by your state police department, or by your local law enforcement agency. You must return the fingerprint cards to the Board or Committee with the required fee.

5. Reports of criminal history will require you to submit additional documentation for review by the Board if applicable.

Endorsement Application: $200.00

Fees are the same for RNs and LPNs.

• The New Jersey Board of Nursing offers a Temporary Courtesy License for military personal or spouses of military personnel.
• Your application is valid for 12 months. If incomplete after 12 months have passed, your application will be discarded and you must reapply and repay the application fee.
• View the New Jersey BON’s FAQ section in the NJ top tips for license applicants (PDF).
• If you are interested in upgrading to a MSL, click through to the NJ nursing applications page for more information.

• Renewal Cadence:: Every 2 years for both RNs and LPNs.
• Renewal fee: The renewal fee for RNs is $120.00, and the fee for LPNs is $125.00.‍
• Required contact hours: 30 hours in a 2-year period.
  - You may carry over up to 15 additional continuing education credits into the next renewal period.
  - All nurses must complete 1 credit of continuing education concerning prescription opioid drugs, including alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain, and the risks and signs of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion.