NCLEX in Illinois: the dual process through CTS and IDFPR
Illinois makes you apply twice before you can test. You apply for NCLEX eligibility through Continental Testing Services (CTS) and register separately with Pearson VUE, and only after you pass do you apply to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) for the license itself.
Last checked October 2026. Based on the CTS and IDFPR application instructions and school and third-party summaries. Fee figures conflict between sources, so confirm each amount on the IDFPR and CTS sites before you pay.
The path for a new graduate
Do not start until your graduation date is on your transcript. Apply through the State of Illinois Examinations page at CTS, selecting the registered professional nurse exam, and pay its fee.
Register with Pearson VUE and pay $200. You need to be registered with Pearson VUE to receive your Authorization to Test.
Use an Illinois-licensed Live Scan vendor and keep the receipt with its Transaction Control Number. Out-of-state applicants submit form OOS-FP. IDFPR does not supply or process fingerprint cards.
Your school submits a roster, transcript or the nurse education form to confirm your education.
When CTS has everything, it notifies Pearson VUE, and Pearson VUE emails your Authorization to Test.
After you pass, you receive an examination letter by post with instructions to apply to IDFPR for your license. One school reports a $50 fee to start that step, while other sources quote higher figures.
Things that cause delays
- Missing one of the two applications. You must apply to both CTS and Pearson VUE, or your ATT will not arrive.
- An old fingerprint receipt. The CTS instructions say you need a new receipt if yours is too old when you apply, so check the current time limit.
- Not checking status online. CTS updates application status each business day, but only online, not by phone or email.
- Waiting for the letter. The official examination letter is sent by post to the address you gave Pearson VUE, reportedly within 7 to 10 days.
Common questions
What if I fail and retake?
You reapply with CTS and Pearson VUE and pay the required fees again. The CTS instructions also describe submitting a new IDFPR application for a retake.
Does an Illinois license let me practice in other states?
Reports say Illinois is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, so an Illinois license is valid only in Illinois. Confirm with IDFPR if you plan to practice elsewhere.