Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Georgia requires completing an approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN, and obtaining your license from the state board. Georgia has specific requirements and nuances that every prospective RN should understand before committing to a program.
This guide covers everything you need to become an RN in Georgia in 2026 — education requirements, the licensing exam, state board details, scope of practice, compact status, renewal, reciprocity, and salary expectations.
Education requirements
ADN (2 years) or BSN (4 years) from a Georgia Board of Nursing-approved program.
While both ADN and BSN graduates can take the NCLEX-RN, many hospitals in Georgia increasingly prefer or require a BSN. If you start with an ADN, RN-to-BSN bridge programs are widely available.
Licensing exam (NCLEX-RN)
After completing an approved nursing program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX-RN is a computer-adaptive test covering safe and effective care, health promotion, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
Apply for licensure through the Georgia Board of Nursing and register for the exam through Pearson VUE.
Licensing board
RN licenses in Georgia are issued and regulated by the Georgia Board of Nursing. All license applications, renewals, and endorsements go through this board.
Scope of practice
Georgia has no mandatory nurse-to-patient staffing ratios. The state has a growing healthcare sector, especially in the Atlanta metro area with systems like Emory, Piedmont, and Wellstar.
Average salary in Georgia
RNs in Georgia typically earn $72,000-$88,000 per year. Pay varies by setting, experience, shift differentials, and geographic location within the state.
Renewal requirements
Every 2 years. Must complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education per renewal period.
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) status
Georgia IS a compact (NLC) state. RNs with a multistate license from another compact state can practice in Georgia without a separate Georgia license.
Compact state. Out-of-state RNs from compact states can practice with multistate license. Non-compact state RNs must apply for endorsement.
Frequently asked questions
What education do I need to become an RN in Georgia?
ADN (2 years) or BSN (4 years) from a Georgia Board of Nursing-approved program. Both ADN and BSN graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. Some employers in Georgia prefer or require a BSN, especially in hospital settings.
How much do RNs make in Georgia?
RNs in Georgia typically earn $72,000-$88,000 per year. Pay varies significantly by specialty, experience, setting (hospital vs. outpatient), and geographic location within the state.
Is Georgia a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?
Georgia IS a compact (NLC) state. RNs with a multistate license from another compact state can practice in Georgia without a separate Georgia license.