How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Georgia

Registered nurses form the backbone of Georgia's health care system, delivering compassionate patient care while coordinating with medical teams across diverse settings. From bustling Atlanta hospitals to rural clinics, RNs blend clinical expertise with interpersonal skills to support patients through their medical journeys.

For those considering nursing in Georgia, the path combines rigorous education with hands-on clinical training, leading to a career marked by continuous learning and professional growth. The state's expanding health care landscape offers opportunities in specialties ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics, allowing nurses to align their careers with their interests and strengths.

Key Points  

• Registered nurses in Georgia provide direct patient care, administer medications, and maintain accurate medical records.  
• A Georgia Board of Nursing-approved program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam are necessary for licensure.  
• Out-of-state graduates must apply with a paper application.  
• Registered nurses in Georgia earn an average annual wage of $79,610, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  
• Employment for registered nurses is projected to grow by 6% nationally between 2023 and 2033, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  
• The Georgia Board of Nursing participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing practice in multiple states under one license.  

What is a Registered Nurse (RN)?

A registered nurse is a licensed health care professional who delivers patient care, coordinates treatment plans, and educates individuals about health management. Responsibilities include monitoring patient conditions, administering medications, and documenting treatment outcomes.  

Registered nurses can specialize in areas such as pediatrics, critical care, or oncology. Specialization often requires additional certifications or advanced degrees. Key skills include critical thinking, communication, and the ability to work under pressure. Day-to-day work involves tasks like monitoring, recording, and reporting symptoms or changes in patients’ conditions (source).  

RNs rely on technology, such as data analysis software, electronic medical records, and email applications, to streamline patient care and maintain accurate documentation.  

Steps to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Georgia

Step 1: Complete a Registered Nurse (RN) Program in Georgia

Earning a degree from a board-approved nursing program is essential. Options include associate and bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Both provide academic and clinical training to prepare for licensure.  

Degree Options

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): An ADN typically takes two years to complete. Programs are offered at community colleges and technical schools, focusing on core nursing skills. Institutions such as Gwinnett Technical College and Albany Technical College are examples of schools offering ADN programs.  

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): BSN programs take approximately four years at universities. These programs include advanced coursework in leadership, research, and public health. Examples of schools offering BSN degrees include Emory University and Georgia State University.  

Bridge Programs: Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses with an ADN can pursue bridge programs, such as LPN-to-RN or RN-to-BSN, to advance their education. Programs are available online or in hybrid formats to accommodate working professionals.  

Accreditation and Prerequisites

Georgia programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam and licensure. Common prerequisites include anatomy, microbiology, and statistics. A minimum grade of C is usually required.  

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

The NCLEX-RN is the licensure exam for entry-level nurses. It tests knowledge and clinical judgment needed to provide safe and effective care.  

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN

Preparation involves reviewing content areas such as pharmacology, patient safety, and health promotion. Practice exams and review courses are available through nursing schools and online platforms like Kaplan and UWorld.  

Exam Details

The NCLEX-RN is computer-adaptive, meaning questions adjust based on performance. The test must be taken at an approved testing center. Locations in Georgia include Atlanta, Savannah, and Macon. The exam fee is $200.  

Step 3: Apply for RN Licensure in Georgia

After passing the NCLEX-RN, submit an application to the Georgia Board of Nursing to gain licensure.  

Application Process

Complete an online application through the Georgia Board of Nursing. Include the following:  

• Official nursing program transcripts.  
• NCLEX-RN exam results.  
• Fingerprints for a background check.  
• Payment of the $75 application fee.  

Licensure by Endorsement

Out-of-state registered nurses can apply for licensure by endorsement. Requirements include proof of clinical practice or recent graduation from a nursing program.  

Multistate License

Georgia is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). A multistate license allows work in other compact states without applying for additional licenses.  

Step 4: Find Employment in Georgia

After licensure, explore job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, or outpatient facilities. Georgia employs 93,730 registered nurses, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  

Top Employers in Georgia

• Piedmont Health care: Employs 28,000 staff across 11 hospitals and more than 750 clinics.  
• Emory Health care: Offers positions in specialties like neurology and oncology.  
• WellStar Health System: Has opportunities in emergency care, rehabilitation, and surgery.  
• Grady Health System: A major public hospital known for trauma and burn care.  
• Northside Hospital: Focuses on women’s health, cancer care, and cardiovascular services.  

Step 5: Maintain Licensure Requirements in Georgia

Registered nurses in Georgia must renew their licenses every two years.  

Renewal Process

1. Submit an online renewal application.  
2. Pay the $65 renewal fee.  
3. Complete fingerprinting if required by the Georgia Board of Nursing.  

Continuing education is not mandated for Georgia RNs, but pursuing certifications can enhance career prospects. Certifications in critical care (CCRN), pediatrics (CPN), or oncology (OCN) are common choices for career advancement.  

Licensure in Georgia

The Georgia Board of Nursing requires graduates to complete a state-approved nursing program. Out-of-state graduates must apply using a paper application. Details are available at registered nurse (rn) licensing requirements by state.  

The application fee is $75, and renewal costs $65. Fingerprinting and background checks may incur additional costs.  

How much do Registered Nurse (RN)s make in Georgia?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses in Georgia earn an average annual salary of $79,610. The hourly mean wage is $43.27. Salaries vary by location, experience, and employer.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete a nursing program in Georgia?  

An associate degree in nursing (ADN) takes two years, while a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) requires about four years. Bridge programs may take less time for those with prior nursing experience.  

What is the difference between an ADN and BSN?  

An ADN focuses on foundational nursing skills and typically takes two years. A BSN provides broader education, including leadership and research, and takes about four years to complete.  

Can RNs in Georgia work in other states?  

RNs in Georgia can work in other compact states through the Nurse Licensure Compact. A multistate license must be obtained to practice across borders.  

What types of certifications can enhance an RN’s career in Georgia?  

Certifications in critical care (CCRN), oncology (OCN), or pediatrics (CPN) can lead to higher-paying roles or specialized positions.  

Do Georgia nursing programs offer online options?  

Many schools in Georgia offer online or hybrid programs, particularly for bridge programs like RN-to-BSN. These formats are designed for working professionals.  

What is required for licensure by endorsement in Georgia?  

Out-of-state RNs must provide proof of clinical practice or recent graduation. Additional requirements include transcripts, background checks, and a $75 fee.

Start Your Nursing Journey in Georgia

The role of a registered nurse extends far beyond medical procedures and patient care. RNs serve as patient advocates, team leaders, and essential members of the health care community. In Georgia's diverse medical landscape, from bustling Atlanta hospitals to rural health clinics, nurses find opportunities to make meaningful impacts on individual lives while building lasting professional relationships.

Ready to take the first step? Research Georgia Board of Nursing-approved programs in your area, connect with current nursing students or practicing RNs, and explore financial aid options through your chosen educational institution. Your path to becoming a registered nurse starts with a single decision to pursue this rewarding profession.