Tennessee Nurse Licensing Guide

Permanent License

Approximately 6 weeks upon receipt of all required materials.

Permanent License

1. Submit an application online and pay the fee. The process is the same for RNs and LPNs. You can view a list of the requirements in the Tennessee endorsement instructions (PDF).
2. Provide a background check with fingerprints. Instructions for fingerprinting can be found in the Tennessee endorsement instructions (PDF).

• If applicable, obtain and upload documents relative to a criminal conviction, arresting document, judgment, and completion of judgment, along with a letter of explanation.

3. Request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure. If this state does not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the Tennessee BON.
4. Provide a passport-type photo signed and dated on the front. The date must be no more than 6 months prior to the date of the application. Sign and date your legal name legibly, and do not conceal your face.
5. Submit a copy of your nursing diploma or transcript from your initial nursing education or request an official transcript to be mailed directly from your educational institution.

• Request an official transcript to be sent directly from the educational institution of the nursing program to: nursing.health@tn.gov.

6. Provide a completed, signed, and notarized declaration of citizenship form with required proof of citizenship documentation.

Endorsement Application: $115.00

Fees are the same for RN and LPN licenses.

Fingerprints: $39.15

• You can check on the status of your application here.
• You can view the Tennessee BON’s FAQ section on the Tennessee Department of Health site.
• Tennessee is a member of the eNLC. You can find more compact state information on Tennessee's multistate licensure page.

• Renewal Cadence: Renewal of your license occurs every 2 years during your birth month. If you were born in an even numbered year, your license will expire every 2 years during even years. If you were born in an odd numbered year, your license will expire every 2 years in odd numbered years.
• Renewal fee: $100 for both RNs and LPNs.
• Required contact hours: Provide evidence of completion of 2 items from this list.
• If you receive your initial credential in the months leading up to your renewal window, you are still required to renew your license and begin the 2-year renewal cycle.