Complete requirements guide for traveling healthcare workers
Application Fee
$143
Processing Time
6–8
weeks
Renewal Period
3
years
Renewal Fee
$73
New York is a great choice for nurses with past minor legal issues because it is the only large state without a fingerprint requirement. However, the three-year registration cycle is unusual, so track your expiration closely.
License by Endorsement
Available for out-of-state licensees
Temporary License
Available while full license processes
Background Check
Not required
Fingerprinting
Not required
Jurisprudence Exam
Not required
Endorsement Fee: $143
Unique among major states: New York does NOT require a criminal background check or fingerprinting for RN endorsement. Applicants must complete NYS-approved courses in Child Abuse Identification and Infection Control.
A temporary permit is available for $35. It is valid for 10 days after the applicant's license is issued or for up to 1 year while the application is pending.
Wait times can fluctuate; the board suggests allowing 6 weeks before inquiring about status. Education verification (Form 2) is often the slowest part.
Registration is for 3 years, but the license itself is 'valid for life' unless revoked.
Join TravTrak to get reminders before your license expires and manage all your healthcare credentials in one place.
Sign Up Free →Information last verified: March 29, 2026