How to become a Registered Nurse

Being a registered nurse (RN) may be considered a good career because it has a faster than average job outlook for 2018-2028 according to the bureau of labor statistics, has above-average median pay and it allows you to help other people.

Once you have an actual valid license in one state, you can apply for transfer to another state. Each state has different fees and requirements. Nurses can use a temporary permit while waiting for a state-specific license.

The BLS (Basic life support) certificate is a certificate many RNs have.

Based on the national average over the past year, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) earns $14.30 per hour, while a registered nurse (RN) earns $34.30 per hour. An RN can earn $20 more per hour than a CNA.

You can become a registered nurse (RN) in as little as 2-3 years. An aspiring nurse can go to school full time to get an associate degree in nursing and take and pass the national council licensure examination (NCLEX) in about two years at the fastest. However, it takes most RNs an average of 2-4 years.

To assist with the transition from school to work, new graduates may want to complete a nurse residency. These programs are typically twelve months and provide nurses with mentors, called preceptors, as well as classes and on the job training.

Nursing skills can be listed on the resume in a separate "skills" section after experience and education. Or, include your skills within the experience section to show how you have used those skills in the past.