Registered Nurse (RN) License: California vs Illinois
Thinking about getting your registered nurse (rn) license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | California | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 1500 hours | 1500 hours |
| Exam | NCLEX-RN | NCLEX-RN |
| Application Fee | $150 | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $200 | $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $19,500 - $20,500 | $21,500 - $22,500 |
| Renewal Period | Every 2 years | Every 2 years |
| CE Hours | 30 hours | 20 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $150 | $50 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: California is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $19,500-$20,500 compared to $21,500-$22,500.
Education: Both states require 1500 hours of education.
Full State Guides
Compare registered nurse (rn) requirements across all 50 states →