Pennsylvania Nursing License: Lookup, Renewal, CE, and Fees

Pennsylvania joined the Nurse Licensure Compact on July 7, 2025. A nurse holding a multistate license from another compact state can practice in Pennsylvania under that license without applying for a new one, as long as Pennsylvania is not becoming their new primary state of residence. Nurses moving their primary residence to Pennsylvania, or without a multistate license, apply for licensure by endorsement.

Endorsement applicants verify their license through Nursys, complete an FBI fingerprint-based criminal history check through IdentoGO, and complete 3 hours of child abuse recognition training; the fee is $120, or $145 if an exam is still needed. Pennsylvania does not require a separate jurisprudence exam. Nurses with at least 3,600 practice hours in the last five years and in good standing may also qualify for endorsement under Act 41. A temporary permit is available while the application is processed.

Pennsylvania requires graduation from an approved diploma, associate-degree, or bachelor's-degree nursing program, with an official transcript, followed by a passing score on the NCLEX-RN exam. Internationally educated applicants must have their education evaluated by a board-approved foreign credentials evaluator and show English competency, either through a program taught in English or a passing score on an approved English proficiency exam. Initial licensure also requires 3 hours of child abuse recognition and reporting training. Pennsylvania does not require a separate jurisprudence or law exam.