Delaware Nursing License

Getting a nursing license in Delaware involves meeting education, exam, and application requirements set by the Delaware Board of Nursing. This guide explains all steps for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), including licensing by exam or endorsement, continuing education (CE), salary, and renewal. 

It also covers NCLEX testing, international nursing licenses, the Nurse Licensure Compact, and how to verify your Delaware license. For study help, online resources like Ulosca offer exam-style questions and guides to prepare nursing students for licensure exams uloscanursing.com.

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How to Get a Delaware Nursing License

First things first, you need to apply through the official online system called Delpros. This is short for the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation Online Services—a fancy name for the site that handles everything from applications to renewals.

Here’s a simplified version of the Delaware Nursing License application process:

1. Create a Delpros account through the Delaware Nursing License Login portal.
2. Complete the application based on whether you’re going for an RN License in Delaware or LPN License Delaware.
3. Submit required documents (we’ll go over those in a bit).
4. Pay the application fee online.
5. Wait for approval—this can take a few weeks depending on your background and document completeness.

Easy, right?

Delaware Board of Nursing

Think of the Delaware Board of Nursing as the heartbeat of nursing regulation in the state. It’s the official authority that makes sure nurses are qualified, competent, and ready to provide safe care to patients across Delaware.

Whether you’re applying for your first Delaware Nursing License or renewing an existing one, this is the board you’ll interact with.

Here’s what they do:

• Review Applications – They process every Delaware Nursing License application, including RN License in Delaware and LPN License Delaware.
  
• Approve Education Programs – Only programs that meet their standards get the green light.
  
• Handle Renewals – The board oversees the Delaware Nursing License renewal process and ensures nurses stay up to date.
  
• Manage Endorsements – If you’re moving from another state, they take care of the Delaware RN endorsement application process.
  
• Oversee Compliance – They investigate complaints and take disciplinary action if needed.
  
• Offer License Lookups – You can use tools like Delaware Professional License Verification or Nursing License Verification Delaware to check credentials.
  

They also run DELPROS, the online platform where you can access your Delaware Nursing License login, apply, renew, and track your license status—all in one place.

The board works under the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation, and it plays a huge role in shaping the quality of nursing care statewide. From setting standards to enforcing rules, they’re all about keeping both nurses and patients safe.

Delaware RN License Requirements and Application

Embarking on your journey to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Delaware? Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced nurse from another state, understanding the licensure process is crucial. Let’s break down the steps for both new nurses and those transferring their licenses.

RN Licensure for New Nurses

RN Licensure Eligibility Requirements

To apply for an RN license in Delaware as a new nurse, ensure you meet the following criteria:

• Education: Graduate from a state Board of Nursing-approved nursing program, which includes at least 400 hours of clinical experience.
  
• Examination: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
  
• Residency: Your primary state of residence should be Delaware or a non-compact state.
  

Steps to Apply for RN License

1. Create a DELPROS Account: Visit the DELPROS portal to register.
   
2. Submit Application: Complete the online application for licensure by examination.
   
3. Provide Documentation:
   
   • Official transcripts from your nursing program.
     
   • Proof of passing the NCLEX-RN.
     
   • A copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
     
4. Background Check: Undergo state and federal criminal background checks.
   
5. Pay Fees: Submit the required application fee.

Licensure for Nurses from a Different State

If you’re an RN licensed in another state and wish to practice in Delaware, you’ll apply for licensure by endorsement.

Steps to Apply for Out-of-State RN License

1. Verify Eligibility:
   
   • Hold an active RN license in another U.S. jurisdiction.
     
   • Meet one of the following practice requirements:
     
     • Graduated from an approved nursing program within the past two years with at least 400 hours of clinical experience.
       
     • Completed at least 1,000 hours of nursing practice over the past five years.
       
     • Completed at least 400 hours of nursing practice over the past two years.
       
     • Completed a Board-approved refresher program.
       
2. Create a DELPROS Account: Access the DELPROS portal to begin your application.
   
3. Submit Application: Complete the online application for licensure by endorsement.
   
4. Provide Documentation:
   
   • Verification of your current RN license.
     
   • Employment references verifying your nursing practice hours.
     
   • Official transcripts from your nursing program.
     
   • A copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
     
5. Background Check: Complete state and federal criminal background checks.
   
6. Pay Fees: Submit the required application fee.
   

Note: If you’re moving from another Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, you must apply for a new multistate license in Delaware within 60 days of changing your primary state of residence.

Delaware LPN License Requirements and Application

Embarking on your journey to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Delaware? Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced nurse from another state, understanding the licensure process is crucial. Let’s break down the steps for both new nurses and those transferring their licenses.

LPN Licensure for New Nurses

LPN Licensure Eligibility Requirements

To apply for an LPN license in Delaware as a new nurse, ensure you meet the following criteria:

• Education: Graduate from a state Board of Nursing-approved practical nursing program, which includes at least 200 hours of clinical experience.
  
• Examination: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
  
• Residency: Your primary state of residence should be Delaware or a non-compact state.
  

Steps to Apply for LPN License

1. Create a DELPROS Account: Visit the DELPROS portal to register.
   
2. Submit Application: Complete the online application for licensure by examination.
   
3. Provide Documentation:
   
   • Official transcripts from your nursing program.
     
   • Proof of passing the NCLEX-PN
     
   • A copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
     
4. Background Check: Undergo state and federal criminal background checks.
   
5. Pay Fees: Submit the required application fee.
   

Licensure for Nurses from a Different State

If you’re an LPN licensed in another state and wish to practice in Delaware, you’ll apply for licensure by endorsement.

Steps to Apply for Out-of-State LPN License

1. Verify Eligibility:
   
   • Hold an active LPN license in another U.S. jurisdiction.
     
   • Meet one of the following practice requirements:
     
     • Graduated from an approved nursing program within the past two years with at least 200 hours of clinical experience.
       
     • Completed at least 1,000 hours of nursing practice over the past five years.
       
     • Completed at least 400 hours of nursing practice over the past two years.
       
     • Completed a Board-approved refresher program.
       
2. Create a DELPROS Account: Access the DELPROS portal to begin your application.
   
3. Submit Application: Complete the online application for licensure by endorsement.
   
4. Provide Documentation:
   
   • Verification of your current LPN license.
     
   • Employment references verifying your nursing practice hours.
     
   • Official transcripts from your nursing program.
     
   • A copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
     
5. Background Check: Complete state and federal criminal background checks.
   
6. Pay Fees: Submit the required application fee.

NCLEX Exam Information (RN & LPN)

Ready to tackle the NCLEX? Whether you’re aiming for an RN or LPN license in Delaware, here’s what you need to know about the exam process.

Steps to Apply (Licensure Path)

1. Create a DELPROS Account: Visit the DELPROS portal to register.
   
2. Submit Application: Complete the online application for licensure by examination.
   
3. Provide Documentation:
   
   • Official transcripts from your nursing program.
     
   • Proof of passing the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN.
     
   • A copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
     
4. Background Check: Undergo state and federal criminal background checks.
   
5. Register for the NCLEX: After the Board approves your application, register for the NCLEX exam through Pearson VUE.
   
6. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT): Once eligible, you’ll receive an ATT letter via email from Pearson VUE.
   
7. Schedule and Take the Exam: Use your ATT to schedule your exam at a convenient Pearson VUE location.

Note: You have five years from your graduation date to pass the NCLEX exam for licensure. To boost your chances of passing on the first try, consider using Ulosca — a trusted resource packed with NCLEX-style practice questions, rationales, study guides, and real exam simulations to help you feel confident and prepared.

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Licensure for International (Foreign-Educated) Nurses

If you’re a nurse educated outside the U.S. and looking to practice in Delaware, here’s your roadmap to licensure.

Steps to Apply (Licensure Path)

1. Credential Evaluation: Obtain a credential evaluation from a recognized agency, such as the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). This verifies that your nursing education is comparable to U.S. standards.
   
2. English Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like the TOEFL, unless you’re from a country where English is the native language and your nursing program was taught in English.
   
3. Create a DELPROS Account: Register on the DELPROS portal.
   
4. Submit Application: Complete the online application for licensure by examination.
   
5. Provide Documentation:
   
   • Credential evaluation report.
     
   • Proof of English proficiency.
     
   • Official transcripts from your nursing program.
     
   • A copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
     
6. Background Check: Undergo state and federal criminal background checks.
   
7. Register for the NCLEX: After the Board approves your application, register for the NCLEX exam through Pearson VUE.
   
8. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT): Once eligible, you’ll receive an ATT letter via email from Pearson VUE.
   
9. Schedule and Take the Exam: Use your ATT to schedule your exam at a convenient Pearson VUE location.

Note: All applications must be submitted through the DELPROS system. Paper applications are not accepted.

For more detailed information and to start your application, visit the Delaware Board of Nursing website.

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Delaware Nurse Licensure Compact (Multistate License)

Delaware is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to practice in multiple compact states with a single multistate license. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility for a Multistate License

To qualify for a multistate license in Delaware, you must meet all 11 Uniform Licensure Requirements (ULRs) established by the NLC. These include:

• Primary State of Residence: Delaware must be your primary state of residence.
  
• Criminal Background Check: Undergo state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background checks.
  
• Disciplinary History: Have no felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions related to the practice of nursing.
  
• Substance Abuse: No history of substance abuse that impairs your ability to practice safely.
  
• Licensure History: No history of disciplinary action against any nursing license held.
  
• Competency: Meet the competency requirements set by the NLC.
  
• Education: Graduate from a Board-approved nursing program.
  
• Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam.
  
• English Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English if your nursing program was not conducted in English.
  
• Residency Documentation: Provide proof of Delaware residency, such as a driver’s license, voter registration, or tax return.
  
• Social Security Number: Possess a valid Social Security number.
  

If you do not meet all the ULRs, you may still receive a Delaware Single-State license, valid only in Delaware.

Applying for a Multistate License

If you hold an active Delaware Single-State RN or LPN license and claim Delaware as your primary state of residence, you may apply for a Multistate license through the DELPROS portal.

Delaware Nursing Continuing Education Requirements

All Delaware nurses must renew biennially and complete CE as required:

• Contact Hours: RNs need 30 contact hours of approved CE every two years; LPNs need 24 hours. These hours must be earned through approved programs. At least 3 hours must be in substance abuse education (included within the total).
• CE Tracking: Delaware uses an online Continuing Education Tracker in the DELPROS portal. Each course or activity must be logged with dates and hours; transcripts are acceptable documentation.
• Practice Hours: In addition to CE, nurses must attest during renewal that they practiced at least 1,000 hours in the past five years (or 400 hours in the past two years) as a nurse.
• Failure to Renew: If you do not complete CE or fail to renew on time, your license lapses and you are not permitted to practice until it is reinstated. (By law, a lapsed license requires reinstatement aw.justia.com.) 
• Audit: After renewal, the Board randomly audits a percentage of licensees to verify CE and practice hours. If audited, you must submit certificates or transcripts proving your CE completion and/or logs of practice hours.

Salary for Nurses in Delaware

Careers as a nurse salaries above were retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics – State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Delaware in May 2024.

Delaware Nursing License Lookup

You can verify a Delaware nursing license online for free. The Delaware Division of Professional Regulation provides a public license search via the DELPROS portal. Go to “Search & Verify License” on DELPROS to look up any nurse’s license status or disciplinary information. 

This is considered a primary source for credential verification. Employers and the public can use this tool to confirm a nurse’s license number, expiration date, and standing.

For multi-state license verification, NCSBN’s Nursys can also verify compact licenses.

Maintaining and Renewing Your Delaware Nursing License

• Renewal Cycle: LPN licenses expire February 28 of even-numbered years; RN licenses expire on varying dates (Feb 28, May 31, or Sept 30 of odd-numbered years) depending on issue date.
• Online Renewal: Renew via the DELPROS portal before expiration. You will log in, update any information, and pay the renewal fee. Delaware sends a notice when renewal is due.
• Attestations: At renewal, you must attest that you met CE and practice requirements (30 CE hours and 1,000 practice hours for RNs; 24 CE and 1,000 practice hours for LPNs) in the past 2 years.
• Late Renewal: If you miss the deadline, you may have a 60-day late renewal period (with a 50% late fee). After that, the license lapses and you must apply for reinstatement.
• Inactivation: If you are not practicing in Delaware, you may place your license on inactive status via a service request in DELPROS. Do this before your late renewal period ends; you cannot work while inactive.

Delaware Board of Nursing License Renewal Online

The Board’s online system makes renewal easy:

DELPROS Portal

Use any recommended browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge) to log into DELPROS and renew instantly.

Benefits

Online renewal is fast and secure. You can track completion, pay fees with a credit card, and get immediate confirmation. The system also allows you to update contact information.

Reminder

For convenience, nurses can enroll in Nursys e-Notify, a free service that sends email renewal reminders and license verification alerts.

Temporary Permits

If you need to work before your license is fully issued (for example, after passing NCLEX and while waiting for your printed license), you may apply for a temporary permit. To get a temporary RN/LPN permit in Delaware, you must have already submitted your licensure application and meet conditions such as having a job offer and an employer reference. You must upload a copy of your job offer letter and a Nursing Employer Reference Form in DELPROS .

Reinstatement

If your license lapses (expiring without renewal), you must apply for reinstatement. Delaware requires evidence of recent practice or completion of a refresher program before reinstatement. The reinstatement application is also done online through DELPROS.

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Addressing Regulatory Questions and Disclosures

During the Delaware licensing process (both initial application and renewal), you will be asked regulatory questions about your background. These usually cover criminal history, substance abuse, disciplinary actions, or other issues. 

Delaware board applications include attestation questions. It’s important to answer honestly. If you have any disclosures (for example, arrests, convictions, or prior discipline), you must provide details and documentation. 

The Board reviews these case by case; having an issue does not automatically bar you but can delay approval until it’s resolved. If you have questions, the Board’s Disciplinary Actions and FAQs pages explain procedures for petitions, consent agreements, or hearings. Always respond to the Board if contacted about any application questions.

Best Hospitals to Work as a Nurse in Delaware

Delaware has several top-rated hospitals where nurses may choose to work. Notable ones include:

• ChristianaCare (Wilmington and Newark) – The largest health system in Delaware. U.S. News ranks ChristianaCare as the #1 hospital in Delaware news.christianacare.org, noted for high performance in multiple specialties.
• Nemours Hospital for Children (Wilmington) – Delaware’s leading pediatric hospital, nationally ranked in many specialties. (Nurses specializing in pediatric care often work here.)
• Bayhealth Hospitals (Dover and Milford) – The main health system serving central and southern Delaware. Bayhealth’s Kent General (Dover) and Sussex (Milford) campuses provide many nursing opportunities in a regional system.
• Beebe Healthcare (Lewes/Rehoboth) – A regional hospital serving southern Delaware. U.S. News named it a Best Regional Hospital in Delaware beebehealthcare.org and it’s noted for community-based care.
• TidalHealth Nanticoke (Seaford) – A 5-star rated community hospital in southwestern Delaware. (It earned CMS’s 5-star overall rating, reflecting strong care and safety.)

These hospitals are known for quality care and often have large nursing staff. Working conditions can vary, so nurses should consider specialty, location, and culture when choosing an employer.

Resources for Nurses in Delaware

Ulosca.com: 

For Delaware nurses (and aspiring nurses), Ulosca offers a range of study tools and resources, including NCLEX practice questions, study guides, and exam simulations, to help you prepare for licensure exams and continuing education requirements. 

Their platform is designed to support nurses at every stage of their career, whether you’re working towards licensure or seeking ways to enhance your knowledge.

Delaware Nurses Association (DNA): 

The professional nursing association of the state, providing networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy for nurses. You can explore membership options and events at denurses.org.

Delaware Board of Nursing: 

This is the regulatory body overseeing nursing practice in Delaware. Their official website provides all the necessary license applications, laws, and updates. For any licensing questions, you can contact the Board at the Division of Professional Regulation via dpr.delaware.gov.

Delaware Nursing License FAQs

How much is a Delaware nursing license? 

The cost of a Delaware nursing license, both for RNs and LPNs, is $181 for the initial application. If reinstating a previously inactive license, the fee is $272. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of Delaware nursing license fees: 

Initial Application: $181 for both RNs and LPNs.

Reinstatement: $272 for both RNs and LPNs.

Temporary Permit: $40.

Upgrade to Multistate Licensure: $25.

Criminal Background Check: $85.

NCLEX Exam: $200.

Refresher Program: $1000 (depending on the specific program).

Inactive License Status Change: $45.

Verification of Licensure: $35.

How Much Do BSN (RN) Nurses Make in Delaware? 

In Delaware, the average annual salary for a BSN (RN) nurse is approximately $86,119. While some nurses may earn as high as $146,806, the majority fall within a range of $72,200 to $97,600. Top earners (90th percentile) can make around $115,723 annually.

How Can I Get my Nursing License Fast? 

There are no shortcuts around the requirements. However, you can speed up the process by preparing early: complete your degree on time, gather all documents (transcripts, references, background check) promptly, and apply online as soon as you are eligible. Register for the NCLEX exam immediately after your application is approved. 

If you already hold a license in another state, apply by endorsement (rather than exam) to avoid retaking NCLEX. Also, take the NCLEX within 2 years of graduation to avoid extra refresher requirements. Using study tools (like Ulosca’s practice questions uloscanursing.com) can help you pass the NCLEX on the first try.

How Much Does it Cost to Transfer a Nursing License to Another State? 

In Delaware, transferring a nursing license (RN or LPN) costs $170 for the endorsement application, plus an additional $25 to upgrade to a multistate license if desired. A temporary permit costs $40. 

Here’s a breakdown of the fees: 

Endorsement Application: $170.

Upgrade to Multistate License: $25.

Temporary Permit: $40.

These fees are non-refundable. You’ll also need to provide verification of your current license and any background check information.

Delaware Nursing License Final Note

Becoming and maintaining an RN or LPN license in Delaware involves following state rules and timelines carefully. Use the Delaware Board’s official resources and online DELPROS system for guidance. Stay on top of continuing education and renewal deadlines to keep your license active. 

With a Delaware nursing license, you can access rewarding nursing careers in top hospitals and healthcare settings. For study support, consider resources like Ulosca’s nursing exam guides, and always refer to the Board’s website and NCSBN for the most current information on licensing and practice in Delaware.