How to Become an RN in Illinois (A Complete 2023 Guide)

Calling everyone in Illinois that wants to be an RN…

We have the complete 2023 guide on how to do just that. 

This guide is like a roadmap that will make the journey easier to navigate. To be sure, though, it will take a lot of time, dedication, and even investment. 

But if you are willing, then let’s dive into the steps on how to become an RN in Illinois. 

The 5 Steps to Becoming an RN in Illinois 

These are the 5 steps to becoming an RN in Illinois:

1. Define your long-term nursing goal
2. Decide which nursing program to complete
3. Find the best nursing school for you
4. Apply for your Illinois RN license
5. Join the nursing workforce in Illinois

Let’s get into the details. 

Step 1: Define Your Long-Term Nursing Goal

The first thing you need is a clear idea of what kind of nursing career you want. 

Do you see yourself in a hospital setting forever? Or maybe you want to help in a nursing home or the military? 

Another thing to think about is what role you’d like in the future. Yes, 66% of nurses provide direct patient care, but you can also be a nurse manager, administrator, or patient care coordinator. Some nurses even become part of a school’s faculty. 

Hold up. 

Why is this step important?

Because it affects your decision of which nursing program to complete. 

Step 2: Decide Which Nursing Program to Complete

This is when you need to start putting in the work.

You’re required to complete a board-approved nursing program before you can apply for a nursing license. 

Now, there are 2 kinds of degrees you can pursue — Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

The degree you choose will affect the opportunities available to you in the future. This is also why you need to know which path you want to go. 

Here is a side-by-side comparison of the 2 degrees:

* Based on NCSBN’s 2020 NCLEX Exam Statistics. These show the pass rates specifically for Illinois

Of course, the degree you choose should lead you to your career goal, but don’t forget to consider your resources. 

Step 3: Find the Best Nursing School for You

Now that you know which degree to get, it’s time to look for a nursing school. 

The idea of “best” is fluid — you’ll have to choose based on your needs and preferences. However, there are several areas you may want to consider:

• Approved: You have to make sure that the school you go to is approved by the State Board of Nursing. If not, then you will not be qualified to take the NCLEX exam. 

• Accreditation: The National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education are premiere institutions providing certification. Being accredited by these boosts a school’s reputation and credibility.

• Delivery Options: Some schools offer their programs online. Some deliver their content in a classroom setting, while others use a blended approach. Going with a non-traditional approach may provide more flexibility.

• Class Size: Teacher-student ratio is an advantage if you need support. Instructors who handle big classes are less likely to give individualized assistance to their students.

• Availability of Financial Aid: Regardless of whether you take an ADN or a BSN, financial support is always a good thing.

• NCLEX Pass Rates: Individual schools have pass rates. It’s indicative of how well it prepares its students for the licensing test.

• Placement Assistance: Although there are a lot of nursing opportunities in Illinois, a school offering a placement program can ease your stress since they have an established network of facilities.

Keep all these things in mind as you look for the best nursing school for YOU. 

Step 4: Apply for Your Illinois RN License

If you successfully finish your degree, it’s time to apply for your RN license. 

In Illinois, you can either apply through examination or endorsement. 

Let’s look into both. 

Licensure by Examination

Applicants who wish to get their license through examination have to apply with Continental Testing Services and Pearson Vue. 

Here are the steps:

• Go to Continental Testing Service’s website, apply for the exam, and pay the $107 fee.

Note: You have 3 years from the date of your application to pass the NCLEX. If you don’t, you must submit a new application and pay all fees again.

• Go to Pearson VUE and register for the NCLEX. You have to pay a $200 testing fee directly to them.

• Gather the following documents:
  • Certificate of Education
    • In-state applicants can use an official transcript, official student roster, or form ED-NUR.
    • Out-of-state applicants can only submit form ED-NUR or an official transcript.
    • Foreign-educated applicants must have their records certified by CGFNS or ERES.
  • Proof of Fingerprinting from a licensed Live Scan Fingerprint Vendor. You can find a list of providers on the IDFPR’s website.
    • Out-of-state applicants must provide a completed OOS-FP form. 

• Submit these documents to the CTS office at: Continental Testing Services Inc. 547 LaGrange Road, P.O. Box 100, LaGrange, IL 60525

• Once CTS reviews and accepts your documents, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson Vue through your email. Note: make sure to keep this as it contains your NCLEX exam schedule and other instructions.

• Take and pass the NCLEX exam. Note: you’ll get your results in 7 to 10 days through an Official Results Letter sent by CTS. Again, keep the letter as instructions on how to apply for your license are in there. 

• Follow the application instructions from the Official Results Letter and get your license!

And there you have it!

You now have an RN license. 

Congrats!

But say, what if you fail the NCLEX exam? 

The NCSBN sends a Candidate Performance Report (CPR) to applicants who do not pass the NCLEX. You can use it for a retake at least 45 days after.

That said, you still need to reapply to CTS and submit the necessary documents to get another ATT. You will have to pay the testing fee again, too. 

Licensure by Endorsement

Only RNs practicing in other states who wish to work in Illinois can get their license through endorsement. 

Here are the steps: 

• Go to IDFPR’s online service portal and create an account (if you don’t already have one)

• Complete the online application form and pay the $50 fee. Note: if you want to start working before your permanent license is issued, you can spend $75 and complete a Temporary Nursing Permit form to have a temporary license.

• Verify your license through Nursys. If your state is not in their system, you must contact your Board of Nursing.

• Prepare the following:
  • Proof of education
    • For domestic applicants
      • An ED-NUR signed by your school’s Dean or the Director of your nursing program. It must contain your school’s seal.
      • A copy of your official transcript.
    • For foreign applicants
      • ERES or CGFNS certification
      • Your VisaScreen Program Certificate and Certificate of Foreign Licensure if the above mentioned are not available
  • Your fingerprint Transaction Control Number (TCN) from your receipt.
  • Temporary Military Permit (if applicable)
  • Personal history including any criminal history such as felony convictions. It must also contain information if any of the following is applicable:
    • Dishonorable discharge from the military
    • Health conditions that may affect your work. These include diagnosed illnesses
    • Prior denial of a professional license
    • Failing to live up to child support commitments
    • Defaults on student loans or taxes

Step 5: Join the Nursing Workforce in Illinois

The employment settings of Registered Nurses in Illinois are as follows:

• 52% — Hospitals / Acute care settings
• 11% — Ambulatory care facilities, such as outpatient clients, private practices, and doctors’ offices
• 9% — Nursing homes, extended care, and assisted living facilities 
• 4% — Schools 

Regardless of your preferred work setting, here are some tips to successfully enter the workforce:

• Research your community — There are many opportunities for RNs across several facilities. It’s best to shortlist these based on your interests, goals, and experience.

• Explore your network — reach out to former classmates, professors, friends, and family members and see if they can offer any information about the establishments you’re eyeing. You can even ask your healthcare provider. 

• Educate yourself — Go through these facilities’ websites and check out what openings are available. See which ones fit your profile best.

• Apply — Prepare all the necessary documents. Make sure you send in a strong cover letter besides your CV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we go, let’s answer some of the most common questions asked about RNs in Illinois.

How much do RNs earn in Illinois?

The average salary for Registered Nurses in Illinois is $78,260. That’s 5% lower than the national average of $82,750.

Your nursing program will come into play — BSN nurses typically earn more than those with ADNs.

How often do I need to renew my RN license in Illinois?

You need to renew your license biennially. To qualify, you must complete 20 Continuing Education hours, one of which must be on sexual harassment.

Is Illinois part of the NLC?

No. Although Illinois has pending legislation, it is not officially part of the NLC. Nurses from other states who want to practice in Illinois must secure their license by endorsement.

What is the growth outlook for RNs in Illinois?

Illinois was already experiencing a nursing shortage even before the pandemic. The nursing industry expects to see a 12.44% increase in job opportunities. 

That’s 9,260 RN openings each year. So you should definitely consider this state if you want to become a nurse.

Helpful Resources for Illinois RNs

• Illinois Board of Nursing Website (Official)
• Information for RN Applicants (Official)
• Illinois RN Continuing Education Requirements (Official)
• Associate Degree Programs (ADNS) Approved by Illinois BON
• Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) approved by Illinois BON

List of Associate Degree Programs (ADNs) in Illinois

Here’s a list of ADN programs approved by the Illinois BON:

Visit the Illinois BON website for updates.

List of Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) in Illinois

Here’s a list of BSN programs approved by the Illinois BON:

Visit the Illinois BON website for updates.

In Conclusion

And there you go! All you need to know about how to become an RN in Illinois.

Remember, as you go through these 5 steps, you’ll need to put in a lot of time, dedication, and investment. But once you get hold of your RN license, it will all be worth it. 

Good luck!