How to Find Your RN License Number

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Your registered nurse (RN) license number makes it easy for employers and patients to verify your credentials. The easiest way to find your number is to look it up on the state's public nursing database. If your state still issues physical licenses, you can also find the number there. Once you have found your license number, keep it somewhere safe so that you can reference it when you need it.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Searching for Your License Online

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    Each board of nursing in the U.S. maintains a public database of nurses and other health professionals. Search for your state board of nursing or for whatever board regulates health professionals in your area.
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    Every state has a free online database to look up nursing licenses. This database is usually called “License Verification” or “Look up a License.”
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    As long as you enter your first and last name, you can find your license number. To narrow down the results, enter your county, zip code, address, last 4 digits of your social security number, or other details. It is okay to leave some boxes blank. [1]
    • You may be asked to state your credentials. In this area, choose “RN” or “Registered Nurse” from the list of choices.
    • In the box labeled “Nursing License Number,” leave it blank. These databases allow you search without the license number, as long as you have the first and last name of the nurse.
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    You may receive several results based on your name or location. Identify yourself from the list by looking for the profile with the right name, location, credentials, and address. Click on the link to find your license number. [2]
    • Your license number will typically be next to the words “license number.” It is usually 6-8 digits long.
    • If you cannot find your licensing information, contact your state board of nursing directly.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Checking a Paper Nursing License

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    The physical license issued by the state will contain your ID number. This license may be in the form of a large certificate or a smaller card that fits into your wallet.
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    Where the number is located varies on the state. The number is typically under or next to the words “License,” “License No.” or “ID Number.” Some states, such as Florida and Massachusetts, will include the preface “RN” before the number. [3]
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    Find the form on your state board of nursing's website. It usually costs between $20-30 to replace a lost certificate. While some states have online applications, others require you to print the form and mail it in. [4]
    • This form will require your name, address, credentials, and the reason for your request. You may need to include a photocopy of your photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
    • It will take between 2-3 weeks to receive your new license. Once you have it, look up your number on the new license.
    • If your state no longer issues paper licenses or wallet cards, you may not be able to replace it. Instead, look up your license online.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Protecting Your License Number

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    You may need your RN license number when applying for jobs, gaining new certification, or proving your credentials. To keep it close to you at all times, write it down separately and put it somewhere you won’t lose it. You can:
    • Write in a word document and save it to your computer.
    • Store the number on your phone using a notes app.
    • Put it on a post-it note and stick it to your computer.
    • Write it on a piece of paper and tuck it into your lanyard at work.
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    If you have to provide your license number often, it may be easier just to memorize it. An easy way to memorize the number is to break it down into 2 or 3 chunks. Memorize these chunks separately before putting them together. [5]
  3. 3
    Make a copy of your nursing license. Use a photocopier or scan it into your computer. If you lose your current license, this will help you keep your information handy while you wait for a replacement.
    • In some states, like Texas and Georgia, you can view and print off a copy of your license from the online public database.
    • You may not use or display this copy as proof of your licensing. This copy may only be used privately.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    How do I look up a nursing license number?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    You can check your state's board of nursing website and enter your personal information into the search boxes and search the results to find your information, which will include your license number. You can also look for the 6-8 digit number on your paper nursing license. It's usually located nexte to the words “License,” “License No.” or “ID Number.”
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Yes No
    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 8
  • Question
    What is better an RN or LPN?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    It's not necessarily a question of better or worse because an LPN and an RN have different roles. A licensed practical nurse, or LPN, performs certain medical duties but doesn't have as many responsibilities as a registered nurse, or RN. An RN also has to receive much more extensive education and pass a comprehensive exam to be board certified. Additionally, an LPN has to work under the supervision of an RN.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
  • Question
    Can you work in any state as an RN?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    Not necessarily. In order for a registered nurse, or RN, to work in a state, they must be licensed in that state. However, most licensing programs are very similar, so if an RN is licensed in one state, they very likely won't have much trouble getting licensed in another state. But they cannot work as an RN until they're licensed in that state.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 0
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/check-a-nursing-license
      2. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/check-a-nursing-license
      3. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/check-a-nursing-license
      4. ↑ http://www.rn.ca.gov/licensees/dups.shtml
      5. ↑ https://masterofmemory.com/numbers/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Your registered nurse, or RN, license number is an easy way to identify yourself as a nurse. To find it try searching for it online. Visit the website of your state’s board of nursing and click on the link for license verification. When you reach the next page, enter your first and last name and click search. You’ll receive a list of license numbers that match your name. You can narrow down the results by entering your zip code, address, or the last 4 numbers of your social security number. When you find your information, look for your RN license number. For tips about how to check your paper nursing license for your RN license number, keep reading!

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