Registered Nurse (RN) in North Dakota
This guide provides a detailed pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse in North Dakota, covering prerequisites, training, exams, and certification. The journey from starting training to obtaining licensure typically ranges from 8 to 12 weeks, with costs varying between $800 and $2,500, depending on the chosen educational program and additional expenses.
In North Dakota, the career of a Registered Nurse (RN) is marked by a stable demand and promising growth prospects. With a median annual salary of $74,930 and a projected job growth rate of 4.9% by 2034, RNs in this state find themselves in a favorable position. Nationally, the nursing field includes 3,391,000 workers, and North Dakota's growth projections mirror the national demand for healthcare professionals. This growth is driven by an aging population and a greater need for healthcare services, making a career as an RN in North Dakota a sound choice for those interested in a stable, rewarding profession.
North Dakota presents a unique setting for RNs due to its specific state regulations and healthcare environment. The state's regulatory framework ensures that nurses are well-prepared to meet the demands of the job, with stringent licensing requirements that maintain high standards of practice. Major healthcare employers in the state, including Sanford Health and Altru Health System, offer a variety of opportunities in both urban and rural settings, accommodating a range of professional preferences and lifestyles. Additionally, the state's rural expanses mean that nurses often have the chance to practice a broader scope of skills and have a tangible impact on underserved communities.
This guide will provide detailed insights into the steps required to become a licensed RN in North Dakota, including educational pathways, examination requirements, and the licensure process, with data sourced from four authoritative bodies. Readers will learn about salary expectations across different regions and healthcare settings within the state. The guide will also cover the job market for RNs in North Dakota, helping prospective nurses understand where opportunities are most prevalent and what potential career paths they might pursue after obtaining their license. This information aims to equip readers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about entering the nursing field in North Dakota.
Licensing Authority
ND Board of Nursing
In North Dakota, Registered Nurses must obtain a license from the ND Board of Nursing, requiring education, a background check, and passing a licensure exam. Continuing education is necessary for license renewal.
Official Resources
North Dakota Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of an approved nursing program (Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree in Nursing)
- Total Training Hours
- Depends on program hours
- Classroom Hours
- Depends on program hours
- Clinical Hours
- Depends on program hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of graduation from an approved nursing program
- Registration for NCLEX-RN exam
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- Varies
How to Become a Registered Nurse in North Dakota
tuition $500-$2000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $120, textbooks/supplies $100, scrubs $30
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2500
Verify North Dakota RN Prerequisites
Before pursuing an RN license in North Dakota, confirm you meet all prerequisites. These include being at least 18 years old, holding a high school diploma or GED, and being in good physical and mental health. Visit the North Dakota Board of Nursing website to review detailed requirements and download necessary forms. Processing typically takes 1-2 days, but ensure all documents are accurate to avoid delays.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule a fingerprinting session for a background check through the North Dakota Attorney General's website. You'll also need a recent TB test and proof of immunizations. These screenings ensure patient and workplace safety. Fingerprinting costs around $50, and results typically take 2-3 weeks. Disqualifying criminal records may require applying for a waiver, which can extend the timeline.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early in the process to avoid delays.
Select an Approved RN Training Program
Choose a state-approved RN training program in North Dakota. Approved programs meet state educational standards necessary for licensure. Visit the North Dakota Board of Nursing's website to find a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program results in ineligibility to sit for the licensing exam, wasting both time and money. Program lengths and costs vary, typically ranging from $500 to $2000.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to compare costs, schedules, and pass rates for the NCLEX-RN.
Enroll and Complete RN Training
After selecting an approved program, complete both classroom and clinical training. The exact number of hours will depend on the program chosen. Ensure consistent attendance and engagement to meet all educational requirements. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate necessary for exam registration. Keep this certificate as it must be submitted during the licensing application process.
Tip
Keep a copy of all training completion certificates as proof of education.
Prepare for the NCLEX-RN Exam
The NCLEX-RN is the national licensing exam for RNs. Preparation involves reviewing nursing concepts, procedures, and patient care. Utilize study guides, practice exams, and courses available on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website. Register for the exam through Pearson VUE, which administers the test. The exam fee is approximately $200, and thorough preparation is key to passing.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams available on the NCSBN website to track your progress.
Register for and Schedule the NCLEX-RN Exam
Once prepared, register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE. The exam includes multiple-choice and interactive questions testing nursing knowledge and decision-making. The cost is $200, and scheduling is flexible but depends on testing center availability. Early registration is recommended to secure a preferred date and location. Upon passing, results are sent to the North Dakota Board of Nursing to begin the licensure process.
Tip
Choose a testing center and date immediately after receiving your ATT to ensure availability.
Take and Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center early with two forms of ID. The NCLEX-RN consists of up to 265 questions with a 6-hour time limit. Results are usually available within 2-4 weeks. If you fail, you can re-register and retake the exam after 45 days. Passing the NCLEX-RN is the final step before applying for licensure.
Tip
Ensure to have a good rest the night before and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for RN Licensure in North Dakota
After passing the NCLEX-RN, apply for your RN license through the North Dakota Board of Nursing. Complete the application form available on their website, attaching proof of education, exam results, and the application fee of $120. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your license details will appear in the state's nursing registry.
Tip
Double-check the application for any errors to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, your RN license will be issued. Verify your license status on the North Dakota Board of Nursing's online registry. This official confirmation is necessary for employment as an RN. Keep this information accessible, as you will need to provide it to potential employers.
Tip
Regularly check the registry to ensure your license status is updated correctly.
Find Your First Nursing Job
With your RN license confirmed, start your job search. Utilize online job portals like Indeed or LinkedIn, and consider attending job fairs specifically for healthcare professionals. Networking with fellow nurses and healthcare professionals can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare for interviews by researching potential employers and tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Tip
Attend specialized healthcare job fairs in North Dakota for networking and direct employer engagement.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training Programs
Some healthcare facilities in North Dakota offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring nurses. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after licensure. This path is beneficial for those who require financial aid and job security.
Best for: Individuals seeking financial support and job assurance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the North Dakota Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
NCLEX-RN Examination administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 75 to 265 questions
Time Limit: Up to 6 hours
Format: Multiple choice and alternate format questions
Passing Score: Pass/Fail determined by computerized adaptive testing logic
- • Safe and Effective Care Environment: 23-26%
- • Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- • Psychosocial Integrity: 6-12%
- • Physiological Integrity: 43-67%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: Not applicable
Time Per Skill: Not applicable
Not applicable
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) email
- ✓ Acceptable form of identification (ID must be government-issued, non-expired, with photograph and signature)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items including but not limited to mobile phones, bags, calculators, notebooks
- ✗ Food and drink unless previously approved as an accommodation
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test duration varies, up to 6 hours depending on performance.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available through the North Dakota Board of Nursing's online portal within 48 hours.
If You Don't Pass
If unsuccessful, candidates can reapply and retake the exam after 45 days. The cost of retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is no specific limit on the number of attempts allowed in North Dakota.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially the call of the question, to understand what is specifically being asked.
- 2. Use the process of elimination to narrow down answer choices, particularly in questions where multiple answers seem correct.
- 3. Manage your time efficiently, aiming not to spend too long on any one question. Note that the exam's adaptive nature means questions may get harder as you proceed.
- 4. Familiarize yourself with the computerized test format before the exam day to reduce anxiety and ensure smooth navigation through the test.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous high school or GED testing center · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Official transcripts may be required by nursing schools.
Criminal Background Check
North Dakota Attorney General's website · Approximately $40 · 1-2 weeks
Required for admission to most nursing programs.
Immunization Records
Personal physician or health department · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Must include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap.
Tuberculosis Test Results
Local clinic or health provider · Approximately $20-$100 · 1-3 days
Some programs require annual testing.
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $60-$85 · Varies; typically a day-long course
Must be healthcare provider level; often includes CPR.
Admission Test Scores (e.g., TEAS)
Testing centers or online through assessment providers · Approximately $115 · Immediate to several weeks for scheduling
Required by many nursing programs for application.
2During Training
Nursing Program Enrollment Verification
From the nursing school's registrar · No cost · 1-5 days
Proof of enrollment may be needed for various applications.
Clinical Rotation Assignments
Nursing program coordinator · No cost · Varies; provided by program
Documentation of clinical hours is required for licensure.
Liability Insurance Proof
Insurance provider or nursing school · Varies; typically included in tuition or fees · 1-2 weeks
Required for participation in clinical rotations.
3For the Exam
NCLEX-RN Registration
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website · Registration fee approximately $200
Must register to schedule the licensing exam.
Authorization to Test (ATT)
Received via email after NCLEX registration and eligibility verification by North Dakota Board of Nursing · No additional cost
Check validity period; typically valid for 90 days.
Government-Issued Photo ID
State DMV or government office · Varies
Required for identity verification on exam day.
4For Certification
Passing NCLEX-RN Score Report
Automatically sent to the North Dakota Board of Nursing by testing service · Included in exam fee
Verify that scores have been received by the board.
Application for Licensure by Examination
North Dakota Board of Nursing website · Application fee approximately $130
Complete after passing the NCLEX-RN.
Proof of Continuing Education (if applicable)
CE provider or self-submission based on board requirements · Varies by course or provider
Not typically required for initial licensure but necessary for renewal.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your registration with the North Dakota Board of Nursing. Ensure your certificate is posted online and request a physical copy for your records.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • North Dakota Job Service, HospitalCareers.com, Indeed, LinkedIn
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Hospitals offer structured environments and diverse specialties; clinics provide regular hours; long-term care has increasing demand; home health offers flexible schedules.
Resume Tip: List clinical rotations as job experience, include all relevant certifications (e.g., CPR), highlight soft skills like communication and teamwork, and tailor your resume for each job application.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a stressful situation.How do you prioritize tasks?Give an example of how you've worked effectively in a team.What motivates you in nursing?
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically, $58,000 to $66,000, varying by facility and location within North Dakota.
Career Advancement Path
Becoming a Charge Nurse or obtaining a specialization (e.g., Critical Care)
Leadership training for Charge Nurse; certification courses for specializations
Challenges to Prepare For
- • High stress levels, shift work disrupting personal life, emotional toll of patient care. Manage these by using stress-relief techniques, maintaining a work-life balance, and seeking support from peers or mentors.
Registered Nurse Salary in North Dakota
In North Dakota, Registered Nurses earn a median annual salary of $74,930, which is lower than the national median. This reflects regional economic factors and local demand for healthcare services.
Entry Level
$63,720
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$74,930
$36.02/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$90,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$86,070 national · -12.9% in North Dakota
Salary by Metro Area
Highest in the state
Close to state median
Slightly below state median
Salary by Employer Type
The cost of living in North Dakota is generally lower than the national average, which may offset the lower median salary for nurses compared to other states.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and continuing education opportunities. Some employers may offer signing bonuses or relocation assistance.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for RNs in North Dakota is expected to align with national trends, driven by an aging population and expanding healthcare needs.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for RNs in your specific area of North Dakota
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications that enhance your value to the employer
Job Market in North Dakota
In North Dakota, the job market for Registered Nurses (RNs) is influenced by unique local factors, despite following a similar growth trend as the national average. The state's expansive rural areas and aging population drive the demand for healthcare services, including nursing. The national growth rate for RNs is projected at 4.9% from 2024 to 2034, and North Dakota is expected to align closely with this trend.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest healthcare facilities in the state
Capital city with consistent healthcare demand
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall
Opportunities
- Advancement in specialized nursing roles
- Growth in telehealth services
Challenges
- Recruitment in rural areas
- Retention of talent against more competitive markets
Training Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota offers a variety of Registered Nurse (RN) training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored routes. These programs prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam, necessary for licensure.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $6,000 - $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 12 to 18 months | $10,000 - $20,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Wahpeton, North Dakota
High NCLEX pass rate
Bismarck, North Dakota
Offers both associate degrees and certificate programs
Online & Hybrid Options
Several community colleges offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify program accreditation and NCLEX-RN pass rates to gauge program quality.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Registered Nurse program info for North Dakota
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies
CE Hours
12 hours per renewal period hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Clinical practice updates, Ethical legal issues
Out-of-State Reciprocity
North Dakota offers licensure by endorsement for nurses who hold a valid license in another state, provided they meet ND's licensing requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Verification of original state license
- Completion of the NCLEX-RN if not previously taken
State Agreements
Participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact allowing practice across member states without additional licensure.
Additional Exams
None, unless NCLEX-RN was never taken
Application Process
Submit an application for endorsement, provide proof of current licensure, and complete a background check.
Fees
Varies
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documentation, especially proof of education and test scores, are submitted promptly to avoid delays.
Review North Dakota's continuing education requirements early to ensure compliance before renewal.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-RN Practice Questions Exam Cram
Contains over 1250 questions covering all critical exam topics, designed to simulate the actual NCLEX exam.
Kaplan NCLEX-RN Prep Plus
Offers detailed practice tests and strategies, with online resources including 2200+ practice questions.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination
Provides a thorough review of core nursing content with over 5800 practice questions.
Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN
Features 6000+ practice questions and detailed rationales, aimed at enhancing critical thinking skills.
3M Littmann Classic III Monitoring Stethoscope
Essential for clinical training, used to assess and monitor patient's heart and lung sounds.
Prestige Medical Nurse's Car-GO Bag
Helps in organizing and transporting nursing supplies and personal items during clinical rotations.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- North Dakota Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12