How to Become an RN in Arizona: 5 Steps

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Written by Ann Real, BSN, RN Content Writer, IntelyCare
A nurse shows a patient a chart while discussing how to become an RN in Arizona.

Wondering how to become an RN in Arizona? The Grand Canyon State has everything a healthcare professional could dream of: strong job demand, world-class healthcare facilities, competitive salaries, and endless opportunities for fun off-work adventures. You’ll also enjoy warm weather, a vibrant arts scene, and a rich history of Indigenous cultures. Your nursing career here can be truly unique.

Ready to launch your nursing career in Arizona? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become an RN, from licensing to finding work opportunities.

What Does an RN in Arizona Do?

On your journey to exploring how to become an RN in Arizona, it can be helpful to consider what your day-to-day responsibilities might look like. While daily tasks vary by specialty and workplace, here’s a glimpse of common nursing duties to help you decide if this path is right for you:

Keep in mind that knowing some basic Spanish can be useful, as around 20% of Arizona residents use it as their primary language spoken at home.

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

Becoming an RN is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it requires careful planning and commitment. From completing prerequisite courses to finding your first nursing job, here’s a timeline to guide you through the key milestones of how to become an RN in Arizona:

  • Prerequisite courses: You may need anywhere from 6 months to 2 years (depending on your previous educational background) to complete prerequisite courses before being accepted into your chosen nursing program.
  • Nursing program: You’ll spend about 2 to 4 years in school as you complete your associate’s or bachelor’s degree nursing program.
  • NCLEX preparation: You may need several months to prepare for the licensure exam.
  • Finding your first job: You may spend several months looking for work, depending on job demand in the city you choose.

In all, it usually takes two to four years to become a nurse, with the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program offering the fastest route to licensure. However, it’s important to note that the BSN is becoming the preferred degree among employers, so you may have more job opportunities if you take the longer route.

How to Become an RN in Arizona: 5 Steps

The journey to becoming an RN is made up of several important steps. Here’s a clear guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Complete Nursing School

Your RN journey starts with completing an accredited nursing program. If you’re looking for a Bachelor of Science of Nursing (BSN) university degree, consider applying to one of these top-ranking universities in Arizona:

  • University of Arizona
  • Arizona State University
  • Grand Canyon University
  • Northern Arizona University
  • University of Phoenix

If you’re aiming for an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) degree, these community colleges offer nursing programs:

  • Eastern Arizona College
  • Estrella Mountain Community College
  • Scottsdale Community College
  • Mesa Community College
  • Paradise Valley Community College

Nursing school combines theory and practice, preparing you for safe and effective care. For added work experience during school, consider student nurse jobs — it’s a great way to build confidence, clinical skills, and a standout resume for post-graduation success.

Curious about nursing education costs in Arizona? An ADN at a community college might cost around $16,000, while a BSN could reach about $90,000. Arizona residents often pay lower tuition, and nursing scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and loan-repayment programs can help cover expenses.

Step 2: Prepare for and Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

Congratulations on completing nursing school. Your next step is to pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which tests your clinical knowledge and critical thinking skills to provide safe, effective care as an RN. Here’s how to navigate the exam process:

  • Apply for licensure by examination by creating an online account on the Arizona Board of Nursing (AZBN) website.
  • Complete NCLEX registration through Pearson.
  • Request official transcripts from your nursing school to be sent directly to AZBN.
  • Submit citizenship and work authorization documentation.
  • Complete a background check, including fingerprinting.

As part of the application process, you’ll need to cover some fees. Here’s an outline of what to budget for during the examination and licensure process:

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • AZBN application fee: $100
  • Background check fee: up to $50

Wondering what the exam experience is like? The computer-based test includes 75–145 questions that adjust to your performance. You’ll have up to five hours to finish. You can access your results through Quick Results as soon as two days after the exam.

Arizona participates in the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing you to apply for either a compact license or a state-specific one. A compact license is a great option if you’re looking to pursue travel nursing or keep your career options open across different states.

Step 3: Apply for Your Arizona RN License

Once you’ve passed the NCLEX, your results will be reviewed by the AZBN, and your RN license will be issued. If you don’t pass, the AZBN will tell you how to proceed with retaking the NCLEX.

Step 4: Start Your Job Hunt

Now that you know how to become an RN in Arizona, you’re ready to start applying for RN job opportunities in healthcare facilities across the state. Many new graduate nurses begin their careers in med-surg or progressive care settings to build a strong foundation in essential nursing skills, such as catheter insertion and wound care. If that’s your goal, consider checking out opportunities at some of Arizona’s top hospitals and medical centers:

If you’re interested in long-term care, Arizona’s warm climate and stunning natural beauty make it a popular destination for retirees. As a result, there are plenty of nursing homes and long-term care facilities where you can explore job opportunities.

For nurses interested in holistic care, Arizona’s healing energy and abundance of wellness retreats make it an ideal place to grow your career. Cities like Sedona and Carefree, known for their focus on traditional and alternative healing, are great places to work in this niche specialty.

Step 5: Keep Your License Up to Date

You’ll need to renew your Arizona RN license every four years. To meet the continuing education requirements, complete one of these within the past five years:

How Much Do RNs Earn in Arizona?

Now that you’ve learned how to become a registered nurse in Arizona, let’s discuss what you could earn. The average salary for RNs in Arizona is about $91,430 a year, though factors like experience, education, and where you work can significantly impact your pay.

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 about what it’s like to live and work in Arizona as an RN? Explore these helpful resources to find answers to all your questions about how to become an RN in Arizona:

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Whether you’re a student nurse learning how to become an RN in Arizona or an experienced nurse looking for a new job, we can match you with the best-fitting nursing opportunities in your desired specialty and location. Sign up today to receive a curated list of roles to explore.

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