Illinois License Overview
Compact / eNLCNo — Non-Compact
Endorsement Fee$50
Typical Timing8-12 weeks
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseNo / See BON
Board Phone(312) 814-2715
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timing: 8-12 weeks.
TGL Recruiter tip: Processing estimates change with fingerprint delays, missing documents, and application volume. Confirm the current timeline with the Board before promising a start date — and always start early.
Step-by-Step Licensing Process
ℹ Illinois is a non-compact state. A separate Illinois RN license is required to practice there.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Apply online through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) online licensing portal and pay the $50 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys from your original state(s) of licensure.
- Submit fingerprints for a background check — Illinois uses the Illinois State Police (ISP) Livescan system. Out-of-state applicants may use a non-ISP location but must follow specific instructions on the application.
- Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks. Illinois is a high-volume state and processing times can vary significantly.
Temporary License
- Illinois does not currently issue temporary permits for endorsement applicants. Plan your assignment start date around the 8–12 week processing window.
TGL Recruiter tip: Start the licensing process as early as possible — especially for non-compact states, which can take 8–12 weeks. Your TGL recruiter will track your application status and help you time your assignment start date.
Fees
Endorsement fee is $50 — one of the lowest in the country. No temporary license available. Renewal every three years (not two) is $40. Background check fees are separate, typically $31.25 for ISP Livescan.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official Illinois Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
Illinois RN licenses renew every three years (not the standard two), on a staggered schedule based on license number. No continuing education is required for RN renewal (verify current requirements). Renewal fee is $40.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- Illinois is a non-compact state — a separate Illinois license is required regardless of home state.
- No temporary permit is available — do not accept an assignment with an Illinois start date before your license is confirmed active.
- Illinois has a three-year renewal cycle, not two — check your specific expiration date carefully.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
Illinois Board of Nursing.
