From the big city lights of Chicago to the state capital of Springfield, the “Prairie State” has a lot to offer for travel nurses looking for their next opportunity. The state is home to top hospitals and teaching facilities as well as smaller community medical centers. Regardless of your specialty, this Midwestern state provides many jobs for RNs who hold an Illinois nursing license.
But if you don’t have this state license, you may be wondering how to obtain the right credentials. Use the instructions below to begin your dream to travel nursing jobs in Illinois.
How to Apply for an Illinois Nursing License
While most states have a Board of Nursing, Illinois nurse licenses are issued by The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IFPN). The state offers nursing licenses by both endorsement and examination, and almost everything can be done online through their new Online Services Portal.
Types of Nursing Licenses in Illinois:
- Examination
- Endorsement
- Renewal
- Restoration
Before applying, you need to decide which category you fit in. New nurses who do not hold a state license will need to apply by examination and pass the NCLEX. For licensed nurses, you will need to apply by endorsement.
The fee for endorsement is currently $50. Nurses who already hold an Illinois nurse license will fall into one of two categories: renewal or restoration.
Regardless of the type of nursing license you are applying for, you need to have the following items ready:
- Criminal background check and fingerprinting
- Social security number and other pertinent personal info
- Certificate of education
- Verification of license and clinical hours (Endorsement only)
How to Renew Your Illinois Nursing License
So you may be wondering how to renew your license? Simply head on over to the IFPN and complete your renewal application. All Registered Nurses licenses expire on May 31 of every even-number year, regardless of the date of issuance.
If you have let your license lapse without renewing, you will need to go through the license restoration process. To restore a license that has expired or been placed on inactive status for more than five years, you must submit all documents and forms required for licensure by restoration. If it has been less than five years, you must contact the IFPN directly to find out more information.
Is Illinois a Compact State?
As of right now, Illinois does not issue temporary licenses and does not take part in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The state is currently pending legislation for NLC. Visit the NCSBN site to see a full list of states participating in the NLC and for more information on the compact.
Find Nursing Jobs in Illinois!
Simply complete the form on the right to speak to a recruiter and you'll soon be working as an RN travel nurse in the great state of Illinois!
Questions?