How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Florida

Registered nurses form the backbone of Florida's health care system, delivering essential patient care while coordinating with medical teams across diverse settings. From bustling Miami hospitals to quiet community clinics in the Panhandle, RNs touch countless lives through their unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care.

The path to becoming a registered nurse in Florida offers multiple entry points, each designed to equip future nurses with the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic profession. Whether working in critical care units, outpatient facilities, or home health services, Florida RNs play an instrumental role in shaping patient outcomes and advancing the quality of care across the Sunshine State.

Key Points  

• Florida employs over 207,910 registered nurses, with demand driven by a growing population and aging residents (Bureau of Labor Statistics).  
• Registered nurses perform tasks such as administering medications, monitoring symptoms, and coordinating care with medical teams.  
• Graduating from an accredited nursing program is required to qualify for licensure.  
• The NCLEX-RN must be passed to practice as a licensed RN in Florida.  
• Electronic fingerprinting (Livescan) is mandatory for licensure in the state.  
• Job growth for RNs is expected to rise by 6% nationally by 2033, aligning with Florida's expanding health care sector.  

What is a Registered Nurse (RN)?

Registered nurses deliver patient care in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and other medical settings. RNs record medical histories, administer treatments, and monitor patients' reactions to medications or procedures. Many RNs also educate patients about health management and prevention strategies.  

Specialized roles allow RNs to focus on specific areas, such as critical care, pediatrics, or oncology. Effective communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking are essential skills for success. Registered nurses often serve as a vital connection between patients and the broader medical team, ensuring optimal care delivery.  

Steps to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Florida

Step 1: Complete a Nursing Program

Choosing an accredited nursing program is the first step to becoming an RN in Florida. Educational pathways include an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or accelerated options. Each pathway offers distinct advantages depending on career goals, financial considerations, and time constraints.  

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An ADN program, available at Florida colleges such as Miami Dade College, typically takes two years to finish. These programs emphasize foundational nursing skills, such as pharmacology, anatomy, and patient care techniques. Clinical rotations in hospitals and clinics provide hands-on experience.  

ADN programs require less time and are often more affordable than bachelor’s programs. Graduates often enter entry-level nursing roles or work in rural and underserved Florida communities.  

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A BSN generally takes four years to complete and includes advanced coursework in leadership, research, and public health. Institutions like the University of Florida and Florida State University offer BSN programs that prepare graduates for broader career options and leadership roles.  

Many Florida hospitals prefer BSN-prepared nurses due to evidence linking BSN education to improved patient outcomes. RN-to-BSN bridge programs are available for ADN-licensed nurses seeking to advance their education while working.  

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

Graduating from a nursing program qualifies candidates to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This exam evaluates readiness to work as an entry-level nurse. Test topics include patient care, safety, and infection control.  

To register, candidates must:  

• Apply to the Florida Board of Nursing and pay the $110 application fee.  
• Register with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee.  
• Complete fingerprinting through Livescan to meet Florida’s background check requirements.  

NCLEX preparation courses are available at many Florida nursing schools, such as Florida International University, to improve success rates.  

Step 3: Obtain a Florida RN License

After passing the NCLEX-RN, candidates must finalize licensure with the Florida Board of Nursing. Requirements include:  

• Graduation from an accredited nursing program.  
• Submission of an online application with a $110 fee.  
• Completion of a Level II background check, including Livescan fingerprinting.  

Nurses licensed in another state may apply for licensure by endorsement. Florida’s participation in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) enables multistate licensure, allowing RNs to practice in 41 member states.  

Step 4: Begin Your Career as an RN in Florida

Florida offers diverse employment opportunities for registered nurses. Hospitals, outpatient facilities, and home health agencies are common employers.  

Top Employers in Florida

• HCA Florida Health care hires RNs for roles in emergency care, surgical units, and outpatient centers.  
• AdventHealth is known for hiring RNs in medical-surgical units and offering career development opportunities.  
• BayCare Health System frequently employs RNs for home health services and hospital-based positions.  
• Baptist Health South Florida, located in Miami, offers positions in oncology, pediatrics, and critical care.  

Urban areas such as Miami, Tampa, and Orlando have a higher concentration of job openings. Rural areas often offer opportunities for entry-level RNs due to shortages.  

Step 5: Advance Your Nursing Career

Registered nurses in Florida may increase earning potential and career satisfaction by pursuing advanced certifications or roles.  

Specialty Certifications

Certifications in fields like critical care, gerontology, and emergency nursing can enhance skills and boost earning potential. Organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) provide certification programs.  

Advanced Practice Roles

Becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) offers opportunities for specialized care and higher salaries. Nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives are common APRN roles. Additional education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), is required for these positions.  

Licensure in Florida

Florida requires registered nurses to fulfill the following:

1. Graduate from an accredited program (ACEN or CCNE-approved, or board-recognized in another jurisdiction).
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
3. Submit electronic fingerprints using Livescan for a background check.
4. Complete a two-hour course on medical error prevention.  

More details on Florida licensing can be found here.  

How Much Do Registered Nurses (RNs) Make in Florida?

The hourly mean wage for registered nurses in Florida is $40.75, while the annual mean wage is $84,760 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Salaries vary by location and work setting.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an RN in Florida?  

The time required depends on the educational path chosen. ADN programs take two years, BSN programs take four years, and accelerated programs can be completed in 12 to 18 months.  

What is a two-year RN called?  

A registered nurse with an associate degree is referred to as an ADN-prepared RN.  

Can you take the RN exam without going to school?  

No, graduation from an accredited nursing program is mandatory to qualify for the NCLEX-RN.  

Starting Your Florida Nursing Journey

Working as a registered nurse in Florida offers unique opportunities to serve diverse communities, from bustling urban hospitals to serene coastal retirement facilities. The role combines technical expertise with compassionate care, allowing you to make meaningful connections while continuously developing new skills through hands-on experience and ongoing education.

Take time to explore Florida's nursing programs, connect with current RNs, and visit potential clinical sites. Contact nursing schools that align with your goals to learn more about their admission requirements, clinical partnerships, and student support services. Your path to becoming a registered nurse starts with that first step of reaching out.