How to Become an RN in Florida: 5 Steps

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Written by Ann Real, BSN, RN Content Writer, IntelyCare
A nurse speaks with a coworker about how to become an RN in Florida.

Wondering how to become an RN in Florida? The Sunshine State has plenty to offer for healthcare professionals, including top-ranking hospitals, beautiful beaches, warm weather, and tax-friendly laws. Additionally, South Florida’s rapidly expanding medical technology sector opens up innovative roles for RNs outside traditional settings.

Whether you’re looking to work in a peaceful town or a bustling city full of energy, Florida is a great place for building your nursing career and living your best life. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become an RN, from earning your license to securing your first job.

What Does an RN in Florida Do?

As you explore how to become an RN in Florida, it’s vital to understand what the job involves. Is this the career path you’re truly excited about? While your day-to-day tasks will depend on your specialty and work setting, here are some common nurse job duties you can expect:

Keep in mind that knowing some basic Spanish can be helpful, especially in cities like Miami, where around 72% of the population is Hispanic. Overall, about 22% of residents in Florida speak Spanish as their primary language at home.

How Long Does It Take to Become an RN in Florida?

The fastest way to become a nurse is by earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which generally takes around two years to complete. On the other hand, if you decide to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), it will take about four years to graduate. With either path, you’ll then need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for a nursing license, which generally takes several months to complete.

How to Become an RN in Florida: 5 Steps

Wondering how to get started on your nursing journey? Here’s a clear guide to help you navigate the essential steps to becoming an RN.

Step 1: Complete Nursing School

Becoming an RN in Florida starts with completing an accredited nursing program. If you’re aiming for a university degree, here are a few top-ranking options:

  • University of South Florida
  • University of Miami
  • Florida International University
  • Florida Atlantic University
  • Jacksonville University

If you’re looking for a community college to pursue your ADN, check out the following options:

  • State College of Florida
  • Miami Dade College
  • St. Petersburg College
  • Daytona State College
  • College of Central Florida

Whatever program you choose, your studies will include taking classes like pharmacology and anatomy, plus getting plenty of hands-on clinical experience. This mix of theory and practice will give you the solid foundation you need to work safely as a nurse.

Wondering how much a nursing education in Florida costs? An ADN degree at a community college may cost around $10,000, whereas a BSN at a university could cost as much as $95,000. Be sure to check out nursing scholarships and reimbursement programs to help cover tuition.

Step 2: Take the NCLEX

The next step is to pass the NCLEX. Begin by submitting your licensure application to the Florida Board of Nursing (FBON) and scheduling a fingerprinting appointment for a background check.

Once approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) and can schedule your exam through Pearson VUE.

When it’s time for your exam, be sure to bring the necessary ID. You’ll take a computerized test, which typically includes 75–145 questions, depending on your responses.

Here’s an overview of the fees you’ll need to cover during the examination and licensure process:

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • FBON application fee: $110

Keep in mind that your fees will be higher if you decide to invest in additional NCLEX study tools, such as review courses and books.

Step 3: Apply for Your Florida RN License

After you pass the NCLEX, your results will be sent to the FBON for review. If everything is in order, the FBON will issue your RN license, which officially authorizes you to work as a registered nurse in Florida. The processing time for your license is seven to 10 business days after the board receives your test results, but you can always check the status of your application through the Florida Department of Health website.

As part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), Florida gives you the option to apply for a Florida-specific license or a compact license, which lets you practice in most states. The compact license is great for those interested in travel nursing or considering moving to other states at some point in their careers.

Step 5: Start Your Job Hunt

Now that you know how to become an RN in Florida, the next step is finding exciting RN job opportunities. Many new graduate nurses start with roles that help develop key nursing skills, such as med-surg or critical care. If that’s the path you’re aiming to take, consider exploring opportunities in large hospitals and medical centers in Florida:

If long-term care is your focus, Florida is a popular retirement destination. There are nearly 700 licensed nursing homes and over 3,000 licensed assisted living facilities throughout the state. Cities like Sarasota and Naples, with more than 30% of residents age 65 or older, are full of opportunities.

Florida is also home to many psychiatric and addiction recovery facilities that often hire new graduate nurses or offer internships or preceptorship training. If you’re interested in becoming a mental health or substance abuse nurse, you’ll have plenty of opportunities here.

You can also work in leading nursing schools like the University of South Florida, cutting-edge research facilities like the Clinical Research Center of Florida, or innovative medical tech startups — although, for some of these roles, you’ll need to acquire several years of experience first.

Step 6: Keep Your License Up to Date

You’ll need to renew your Florida RN license every two years by completing 24 hours of continuing education and submitting a renewal application. The renewal fee is $75.

How Much Do RNs Earn in Florida?

Now that you’ve learned how to become a registered nurse in Florida, let’s explore your potential future salary. On average, Florida RNs earn $84,760 annually, but your pay could vary based on experience, education, and workplace. Generally, outpatient care centers tend to offer higher wages than hospitals or doctor’s offices.

Your salary may also be higher in metropolitan areas. To start your search, take a look at these five major cities by population:

Helpful Resources for Florida Nurses

Need more information? Check out these resources to get all your questions about how to become an RN in Florida answered:

Explore the Latest RN Jobs With IntelyCare

Now that you’ve learned how to become an RN in Florida, let us help you find the latest nursing jobs that match your skills, desired schedule, and career aspirations. Sign up for a personalized job search experience.

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