Registered Nurse (RN) in Tennessee
Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Tennessee involves several key steps including meeting prerequisites, completing approved training, passing exams, and obtaining licensure. The process can take anywhere from 4 to 20 weeks depending on the chosen training schedule, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500.
In Tennessee, the career of a Registered Nurse (RN) presents significant opportunities for growth and stability. With a median annual salary of $76,200, RNs in Tennessee earn a competitive wage in comparison to the national standard. The demand for nurses in the state is set to rise, with a projected job growth of 4.9% by 2034, reflecting a nationwide trend in the healthcare sector. This growth is driven by an aging population, the expansion of healthcare services, and a heightened focus on preventive care, making nursing a promising career choice in Tennessee.
Tennessee's healthcare system offers a unique environment for RNs due to specific state regulations and a diverse healthcare landscape. The state is home to several large healthcare systems and hospitals, which are major employers of nurses. These include Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare system, among others. Tennessee's healthcare regulations and the availability of advanced nursing programs also affect the scope of practice and responsibilities of RNs, differentiating it from other states in terms of regulatory frameworks and professional opportunities.
This guide aims to equip prospective nurses with detailed information about becoming a Registered Nurse in Tennessee. Readers will learn about the licensing process, which draws on resources from five distinct sources, ensuring a thorough understanding of state-specific requirements. The guide will also outline the necessary steps to achieve certification, realistic salary expectations, and insights into the job market, facilitating informed career decisions for individuals considering nursing as a profession in Tennessee.
Licensing Authority
Tennessee Department of Health, Division of Health Related Boards
In Tennessee, Registered Nurses must meet specific educational, examination, and continuing education requirements to maintain licensure. The state mandates a rigorous process to ensure that nurses are well-equipped to provide healthcare services.
Official Resources
Tennessee Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of an approved nursing program at the associate or bachelor level
- Total Training Hours
- Varies based on program hours
- Classroom Hours
- Varies based on program hours
- Clinical Hours
- Varies based 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
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- Varies
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Tennessee
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $100, textbooks/supplies $50, scrubs $100
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Tennessee's Prerequisites
Begin by confirming that you meet the prerequisites for becoming an RN in Tennessee. You'll need a high school diploma or GED, be at least 18 years old, and have no disqualifying criminal history. Visit the Tennessee Board of Nursing website to download the list of prerequisites and ensure you meet all the requirements. This initial step is crucial as it determines your eligibility to enroll in a nursing program.
Tip
Save time by gathering all necessary documents before starting your application process.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule and complete a background check and health screenings. Tennessee requires an FBI fingerprint and state police background check. Visit Identogo by MorphoTrust to schedule your fingerprinting session. You'll also need to complete a TB test and provide proof of immunizations. Results from the background check can take up to 4 weeks, so plan accordingly.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved nursing program to ensure eligibility for licensure upon completion. Visit the Tennessee Board of Nursing's website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the licensing exam, wasting both time and money. Programs vary in duration and cost, so compare options carefully.
Tip
Contact schools directly to ask about program specifics, such as start dates and financial aid options.
Enroll in and Complete Training
After choosing an approved program, enroll and complete the required training. Tennessee's approved RN programs include varied hours of classroom and clinical training. Ensure you attend all sessions as attendance is crucial for program completion. Upon finishing, you will receive a certificate of completion necessary for exam registration.
Tip
Keep a record of all training hours and documents received during your program.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Begin studying for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Utilize study guides and practice exams to prepare. The NCLEX-RN consists of up to 265 questions with a 6-hour time limit. Focusing on areas such as patient care, safety, and infection control is essential. Register for the exam through Pearson VUE.
Tip
Join study groups online to enhance your preparation and receive support from peers.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Complete your registration for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE. After receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the Tennessee Board of Nursing, schedule your exam. Testing locations are available statewide. Ensure you choose a date that gives you ample time to prepare. Rescheduling is possible but may incur additional fees.
Tip
Check your email regularly for the ATT from the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of your exam, arrive early at the designated testing center with two forms of ID. The NCLEX-RN exam format includes multiple-choice and other question types, testing your knowledge and decision-making skills in nursing. If you fail, you can reapply through Pearson VUE and pay the examination fee again. Passing the exam is the final step before applying for licensure.
Tip
Ensure all personal information on your IDs matches the information you provided during registration.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the NCLEX-RN, apply for your RN license through the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Complete the application form, and submit it along with the required fee and proof of passing the NCLEX-RN. Processing times can vary, so allow several weeks. Once approved, your license will appear in the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry.
Tip
Double-check your application for errors to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your RN certification. Verify your status on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry to ensure your information is correct. This verification is often required by employers before you can begin working. Keep this certification accessible, as you will need it for job applications and potential audits.
Tip
Regularly check the registry to ensure your information is up-to-date.
Find Your First Job
Begin your job search by visiting online job boards, networking with peers, and contacting healthcare facilities directly. Prepare your resume and highlight your RN certification, education, and any relevant experience. Consider entry-level positions to gain experience. Negotiate your salary based on the going rates in Tennessee for new RNs.
Tip
Attend job fairs and use your school's career services to find available RN positions.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Tennessee offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring RNs. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after licensure. This path can be an excellent option for those looking to reduce educational expenses.
Best for: Individuals looking to minimize upfront educational costs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Tennessee 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 (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) 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 based on a computer adaptive testing model
- • Safe and Effective Care Environment: 20-22%
- • Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- • Psychosocial Integrity: 6-12%
- • Physiological Integrity: 43-45%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: Not applicable
Time Per Skill: Not applicable
The NCLEX-RN does not include a separate skills test; it is fully integrated into the written portion.
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) letter
- ✓ Acceptable ID (government-issued ID with photograph and signature)
- ✓ Second form of ID with a signature
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items (bags, hats, scarves)
- ✗ Electronic devices (phones, smart watches, calculators)
- ✗ Food and drinks
- ✗ Study materials
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test lasts up to 6 hours, including optional breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are sent by the Tennessee Board of Nursing typically within 6 weeks. Check results online through the Pearson VUE account or wait for mail notification.
If You Don't Pass
Retake is allowed after 45 days. Cost varies based on retake fees. Tennessee allows unlimited retakes, but additional preparation is advised after multiple failures.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Understand the format: The NCLEX uses a computer adaptive testing model where each answer guides the next question's difficulty.
- 2. Practice priority questions: Focus on scenarios asking for the 'best' action where multiple options seem correct.
- 3. Manage time effectively: Although the time seems ample, manage it wisely by not spending too long on any one question.
- 4. Stay calm and use elimination techniques: If unsure, eliminate clearly wrong answers to improve chances of selecting the right one.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
Issued by your high school or GED program · Varies · Varies
Official copies may need to be sent directly from the institution.
Immunization Records
Your healthcare provider or previous school · Possible fee for records or any missing vaccinations · 1-2 weeks
Ensure it includes TB test, Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, and Tdap.
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be Healthcare Provider level.
Background Check
Third-party provider or through school if provided · $30-$50 · 1-2 weeks
Some programs require a specific service provider.
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
Nursing School's Registrar · Free to $20 · 1 week
Needed for various externships or scholarships.
Liability Insurance
Through nursing school or private provider · $30-$50 annually · Immediate to 1 week
Required by most clinical training sites.
Health Assessment Form
Completed by a healthcare provider · Varies by provider · Depends on appointment availability
Form typically provided by the nursing school.
3For the Exam
Application to Sit for NCLEX-RN
Tennessee Board of Nursing website · Application fee varies
Must be submitted as directed by the state board.
ATT (Authorization to Test)
Received via email after application approval · Included in NCLEX application fee
Check email including spam folder after application.
NCLEX Examination Fee
Payable to Pearson Vue · $200
Payment required to schedule the exam.
4For Certification
Passing NCLEX-RN Results
Automatically sent to the Tennessee Board of Nursing by testing service · Included in examination fee
Ensure your details are correct to avoid delays.
Licensure by Examination Application
Tennessee Board of Nursing website · Application fee varies
Complete all sections accurately to avoid processing delays.
Official Transcripts
Directly from your nursing school · $5-$25
Must be sent directly from the institution to the Board.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your RN status on the Tennessee Board of Nursing website. Ensure your license details are correct and download a copy of your license certificate. Update your personal details if necessary.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Tennessee Hospital Association job board
- • Indeed.com with a focus on Tennessee locations
- • LinkedIn, using location filters for Tennessee
- • Glassdoor for company reviews and job postings in Tennessee
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals (e.g., Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Methodist Hospitals) offer comprehensive benefits and structured career paths.
- • Clinics and outpatient centers typically provide regular working hours with less emergency stress.
- • Home health agencies, appealing for flexible schedules and one-on-one patient care.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical rotations and specific skills (e.g., patient assessment, medication administration). Include soft skills like communication and teamwork. List any honors or awards from nursing school.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss clinical experiences, how you handle stress, and scenarios demonstrating patient care. Expect questions on teamwork, conflict resolution, and patient safety.
Expected First-Year Salary
The typical salary range for a new RN in Tennessee is between $50,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.
Career Advancement Path
Becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP)
Requires a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) which can take 2-3 years post-RN.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adapting to shift work can disrupt personal life balance. Manage this by setting a consistent sleep schedule and prioritizing downtime.
- • Dealing with patient and family emotions can be stressful. Regularly engage in stress-relief activities and seek support from peers.
Registered Nurse Salary in Tennessee
In Tennessee, the median annual salary for Registered Nurses is $76,200, which is below the national median. This reflects a regional variation in healthcare compensation.
Entry Level
$62,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$76,200
$36.63/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$93,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$86,070 national · -11.5% in Tennessee
Salary by Metro Area
Highest in the state, driven by demand in large healthcare facilities
Slightly below state median, varies by employer
Reflects regional pay variations and local demand
Salary by Employer Type
The salary in Tennessee generally aligns with the state's lower cost of living compared to the national average.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Some employers may offer tuition assistance.
Salary Growth Outlook
Expected to grow with national healthcare demand and local population increases.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for similar roles in your area.
- •Highlight special skills or certifications that add value.
Job Market in Tennessee
In Tennessee, the job market for Registered Nurses (RNs) mirrors the national growth trend but with localized accelerations due to specific demographic and policy factors. With the national RN employment projected to grow by 4.9% from 2024 to 2034, Tennessee is expected to see a similar or slightly higher trajectory. This growth is driven by an aging population, expansions in healthcare facilities, and increased emphasis on preventative care within the state.
Top Hiring Areas
Center for medical services and education
Growing healthcare needs in urban settings
Home to several large hospitals and health systems
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with graduation seasons and budget planning cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion in telehealth services offering remote employment options
- Educational advancements through local universities and online programs
Challenges
- Shortage of nursing educators leading to bottlenecks in training new nurses
- Rural healthcare access and staffing
Training Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee offers diverse Registered Nurse (RN) training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $4,000 - $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 12 to 18 months | $10,000 - $25,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Variable | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Nashville, Tennessee
High NCLEX pass rates and affordable tuition
Memphis, Tennessee
Focused training with quick program completion
Online & Hybrid Options
Several community colleges offer hybrid programs combining online theory with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify program accreditation and NCLEX pass rates to ensure quality education and licensure eligibility.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Registered Nurse program info for Tennessee
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies
CE Hours
Varies hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Varies
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Tennessee offers licensure by endorsement for nurses licensed in other states, provided they meet Tennessee's requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current active license in another state
- Completion of a criminal background check
State Agreements
Tennessee participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).
Additional Exams
No additional exams required for nurses from NLC states
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, complete background check, and verify original state licensure
Fees
Varies
Processing Time: Varies
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents submitted for licensure or renewal are complete to avoid delays
Stay updated on continuing education requirements to ensure timely renewal
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-RN Practice Questions Exam Cram
Provides targeted practice with four 125-question practice exams and detailed answers, ideal for testing knowledge and exam readiness.
Kaplan NCLEX-RN Prep Plus
Includes practice questions, detailed rationales, and two full-length practice tests, updated annually to reflect the latest exam changes.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination
Offers a thorough review of core nursing content with more than 5,200 NCLEX examination-style questions.
Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN
Features over 6,000 questions for extensive practice, covering all exam content areas, with detailed explanations for correct answers.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Essential for clinical training, offers high acoustic sensitivity for performing general physical assessments.
Nursing Scrubs
Required for clinical placements, scrubs provide a professional and hygienic appearance necessary for hospital settings.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Tennessee Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12