A Guide to Nursing New Hampshire
Licensing Costs
To become a nurse in New Hampshire, you'll need to cover the following fees:
- NCLEX Examination: $200
- Application Fee: $148 for RN/LPN; $100 for APRN
- Background Check: $48.25
For nurses seeking licensure by endorsement:
- Application Fee: $148 for RN/LPN; $100 for APRN
- Background Check: $48.25
License renewal fees are $108 for RN/LPN and $100 for APRN. New Hampshire is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing for multi-state practice. For the most current information, visit the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.
Continuing Education Requirements
For RN/LPN:
- Practice Requirement: 400 hours within the 4 years preceding the application.
- Education Requirement: 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within the 2 years preceding the application.
For APRN:
- Education Requirement: 60 CEUs, with 30 hours related to specialty certification and 5 hours in pharmacology.
- Practice Requirement: 400 hours in specialty practice within the 4 years preceding the application.
Free ANCC-accredited courses are available online for nurses nationwide, recognized by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
The demand for nurses in New Hampshire is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% growth in nursing employment from 2021 to 2031. The average annual salary for registered nurses in the U.S. is approximately $82,750. Salaries in New Hampshire may vary based on experience, education, and specific roles.
Leading Hospitals in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is home to several top-rated hospitals:
- Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center: Located in Lebanon, DHMC is New Hampshire's only academic medical center and has been named the state's best hospital by U.S. News & World Report for 2024-2025. It is recognized for high performance in 11 adult procedures and conditions.
- Concord Hospital: Based in Concord, this health system has been recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best Midsize Employers in 2025. It offers comprehensive acute-care services and has earned national recognition for its maternity care.
- Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital: Situated in Lebanon, APD has been named a High Performing hospital for Hip Replacement by U.S. News & World Report for 2024-2025. It is known for its personalized care and excellent outcomes in orthopedic procedures.
Professional Nursing Organizations in New Hampshire
Joining professional organizations can enhance your career through networking, education, and advocacy:
- New Hampshire Nurses Association (NHNA): Established in 1906, NHNA is the only state organization advocating for all nurses, regardless of specialty or practice setting. It offers professional development and represents nurses in legislative matters.
- New Hampshire School Nurses Association (NHSNA): This association supports school nurses by providing resources, education, and advocacy to ensure students achieve their full educational potential.
Steps to Start Your Nursing Career in New Hampshire
- Education: Enroll in an accredited nursing program to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Bridge programs are available for those transitioning from ADN to BSN.
- Licensure: Apply for the NCLEX-RN exam approximately six weeks before graduation. The exam assesses knowledge in areas such as safe care environments, health promotion, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
- Experience: Gain clinical experience to enhance your skills and employability.
- Certification: Pursue specialty certifications relevant to your career goals. Free courses are available to help meet certification requirements.
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