Nevada Nursing License Guide: Getting Licensed for Travel Nursing

By:
JoAnne Salreno
August 26, 2025
Reading time:
8 min
Learn how to get your Nevada nurse license with this step-by-step guide for travel nurses

Nevada’s healthcare landscape offers an exciting mix of opportunities—from fast-paced hospitals in Las Vegas and Reno to quieter rural facilities in scenic desert towns. If you’re a nurse looking to explore travel assignments in Nevada, the first step is securing your Nevada nurse license.

Whether you’re moving from another state or just starting your nursing career, this guide walks you through the licensing process, requirements, timelines, and tips to help you avoid common pitfalls.

Why Get a Nevada Nurse License for Travel Nursing?

Travel nursing in Nevada offers several advantages:

  • Ongoing demand for RNs across specialties, especially in ERICU, and med-surg
  • Competitive pay rates, often higher than the national average
  • Access to renowned facilities like Renown Regional Medical Center
  • A variety of assignment locations—from bustling cities to remote, underserved communities
  • Year-round warm weather and access to outdoor recreation

Important: Nevada is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you’ll need a Nevada-specific license even if you hold a compact license.

How to Get Licensed as a Nurse in Nevada

The licensing process depends on whether you are applying as a new nurse or an experienced RN transferring from another state.

Licensure by Examination (New RNs)

  1. Graduate from an Approved Nursing Program: Your nursing education must meet Nevada State Board of Nursing standards.
  2. Pass the NCLEX-RN ExamRegister through Pearson VUE and have results sent to the board.
  3. Create an Account and Submit an Online Application: Apply via the Nevada State Board of Nursing website.
  4. Complete a Fingerprint Background Check: Use an approved vendor; results must go directly to the board.
  5. Pay the Application Fee: Expect around $105 for the initial application.

Licensure by Endorsement (Experienced RNs)

Follow the steps below, or visit the official Nevada State Board of Nursing Website for detailed instructions.

  1. Apply Online: Select “Licensure by Endorsement” on the board’s application portal.
    Verify Your License: Use Nursys for license verification.
  2. Submit Official Transcripts: Must be sent directly from your nursing school.
  3. Complete Fingerprinting: Approved vendor only—out-of-state nurses can request a fingerprint packet.
  4. Pay the Required Fees

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Nevada RN Requirements: What You Need to Know

To be licensed as an RN in Nevada, you must:

  • Graduate from an approved nursing program
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN or hold an active license in another state
  • Complete a fingerprint-based background check
  • Submit proof of identity and education
  • Provide verification of any active nursing license

How Long Does It Take to Get a Nevada Nurse License?

Most nurses receive their license in 3–6 weeks once all documents are submitted. Delays often occur due to:

  • Incomplete fingerprinting
  • Missing or delayed transcripts
  • Incorrect application information

Pro Tip: Have all documentation ready before you apply to avoid processing delays.

Cost to Obtain Nevada Nurse Licensing

Obtaining a Nevada nursing license generally costs $265–$280, covering the application, fingerprinting, and biennial renewal fees. Many travel nurse agencies, including Nomad Health, may reimburse these costs for nurses accepting a Nevada assignment.

Fee Type

Estimated Cost

Application Fee

$105

Fingerprinting

$60-$75

Renewal Fee

$100 every two years

Some travel nursing agencies, including Nomad Health, may offer licensing fee reimbursement when you take a Nevada travel nurse assignment.

Continuing Education and Renewal Requirements

Renewal applications may be submitted online within 60 days from your current expiration date.

  • Renewal period: Every 2 years

  • CEUs required: 30 contact hours per renewal cycle, including at least four hours of instruction related to cultural competency, diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

  • The Nurse Practice Act requires a one-time 4-hour bioterrorism course to be completed. Learn More

  • Renewal is done online through the Nevada State Board of Nursing portal.

Overcoming Common Licensing Challenges in Nevada

  • Delays in fingerprint processing – Submit prints early, especially if you live out of state.
  • Transcript delays – Contact your nursing program in advance to request official transcripts.
  • Name mismatches – Ensure your ID, transcripts, and license verification all match your legal name.

How Nomad Health Supports Your Nevada Nurse Licensing Journey

Nomad Health helps travel nurses navigate the Nevada licensing process with:

  • Step-by-step application guidance
  • Access to trusted licensing resources
  • Possible reimbursement for application fees when taking a Nevada assignment
  • A wide selection of high-paying travel nursing jobs in Nevada

FAQS: Nevada Nurse License

No. You must apply for a Nevada-specific license to work as an RN in the state.
Typically 3–6 weeks, depending on documentation and background check timelines.
Around $165–$180 total, including application and fingerprinting fees.
Every two years, with 30 contact hours of CEUs required per cycle.
Yes. Nomad Health provides guidance and may reimburse licensing costs for nurses taking Nevada travel assignments.

Author profile

JoAnne Salreno
JoAnne Salreno, RN is a Registered Nurse with experience in Surgical Intensive Care (SICU), Pre-Op, Operating Room, and Post-Anesthesia Care (PACU) settings. Since becoming an RN, she has been dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care across the clinical continuum and now brings that same energy towards her role at Nomad. JoAnne brings a clinical eye and real-world insight to her clinical coaching, while offering support and guidance to Nomad clinicians each day. As a manager on the Clinical Excellence team, JoAnne brings the same focus, precision, and compassion that defined her bedside nursing into her role. She is committed to improving patient outcomes through education, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration, while also providing education, guidance and coaching to support clinicians while on assignment. JoAnne believes that high-quality care is a team effort, one that depends on recognizing and valuing the expertise of every healthcare professional involved. She is committed to amplifying the contributions of travel healthcare professional roles and fostering a more collaborative, inclusive approach to care delivery.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-salreno

Published: Aug. 26, 2025
Modified: Aug. 26, 2025