Connecticut Nursing License Requirements

RN License Requirements in Connecticut

To practice as a registered nurse in Connecticut, candidates must complete the following steps:

1. 1. Graduate from an accredited nursing program. Complete an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a program accredited by CCNE or ACEN. BSN programs are increasingly preferred by Connecticut employers.
2. 2. Pass the NCLEX-RN. Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE and pay the $200 examination fee. The exam uses computerized adaptive testing and typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours. The national first-time pass rate for U.S.-educated candidates is approximately 87%.
3. 3. Apply to the Connecticut Board of Nursing. Submit your application, transcripts, NCLEX scores, and applicable fees to the Connecticut Board of Nursing.
4. 4. Pass a background check. Connecticut requires a criminal background check and fingerprinting as part of the initial licensure process. Prior convictions do not automatically disqualify applicants, but the board reviews each case individually.
5. 5. Renew your license every 1 year. Connecticut does not require mandatory CE hours for renewal, but ongoing professional development is expected.

Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) Status

Connecticut is not currently a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Nurses licensed in Connecticut who wish to practice in other states must apply for individual licenses in each state. Similarly, nurses from compact states cannot use their multistate license to practice inConnecticut — they must obtain a Connecticut single-state license.

For nurses considering travel nursing assignments in Connecticut, budget time for the state's licensure review process (typically 4–8 weeks for endorsement applications) and the associated fees. Check the NCSBN website periodically as Connecticut may pursue compact membership in the future.

Transferring Your License to Connecticut (Endorsement)

If you hold a valid RN license from another state, you can obtain a Connecticut license through the endorsement process — no need to retake the NCLEX. The endorsement application requires verification of your current license (via Nursys or direct verification from the issuing state board), a background check, and payment of the endorsement fee. Processing times typically range from 4 to 8 weeks.

International nurses (those educated outside the U.S.) must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credential evaluation service such as CGFNS International or Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools before applying for Connecticut licensure.

For full endorsement requirements and current fees, visit the Connecticut Board of Nursing website.