Compact status
Not a Nurse Licensure Compact member
IL · Internationally educated nurses
Illinois RN license requirements
A researched starting point for applying to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — Board of Nursing, including education review, English rules, identification requirements, background checks, and the NCLEX sequence.
Credential evaluation
A foreign nursing education report is required from CGFNS/TruMerit CES, ERES, or another Division-approved service. The report must be based on official sealed school transcripts and address foreign licensure.
English requirement
If the applicant’s first language is not English: TOEFL or IELTS General Training under the rule’s scores. A waiver may be recommended based on nursing education conducted in English or passing an approved licensing exam in English.
SSN requirement
Provide SSN if one exists. An applicant without one submits the IDFPR SSN affidavit and must update the Department after receiving an SSN.
Background check
Fingerprint background check required; fingerprints generally must be taken within 60 days before application/submission under IDFPR instructions.
Education review
The evaluator must review official transcripts and foreign license status. Foreign-language documents require an original notarized translation by someone other than the applicant.
Application sequence
How to apply in Illinois
- 1
Use the IDFPR online RN application/Continental Testing route specified for examination.
- 2
Order the accepted credential report.
- 3
Submit English evidence or documented waiver basis.
- 4
Complete Illinois or out-of-state fingerprint instructions.
- 5
Register with Pearson VUE and await eligibility/ATT.
Documents to prepare
- Credential report
- TOEFL/IELTS or waiver evidence
- Fingerprint receipt/cards
- SSN or affidavit
- Original notarized translations
- Foreign license records
Verify before paying
- • Illinois is not an NLC member.
- • A proposed-rule PDF was useful corroboration but applicants should rely on the effective rule and current RN guide for final score and timing requirements.
Apply through the official board
This guide helps you compare requirements; it is not the application. Check the current instructions from Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — Board of Nursing before ordering reports or submitting documents.
Official sources reviewed
Research checked 2026-07-22. Requirements can change.
General educational information only. The state board is the authority on licensure eligibility; immigration authorization is a separate process.