NCLEX in Iowa: a $143 fee that includes the background check, and a 90-day expiry
Iowa’s single $143 fee covers both the application and the criminal history background check, which the Board describes as non-refundable. The part to watch is the clock: your Iowa application and your NCLEX registration both expire 90 days after you are authorized to test, and if they lapse you resubmit both with both fees.
Last checked October 2026. Based on the Iowa Board of Nursing’s instructions for licensure by examination, published by the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing. Confirm current fees at nursing.iowa.gov.
The path for a new graduate
Complete the Iowa Board of Nursing application through the online portal and pay $143. Iowa program candidates receive required documentation from their school.
Register with Pearson VUE and pay $200. Your name, address, phone number and email must match your licensure application and your ID.
The Board uses Fieldprint as its primary fingerprinting method. If you cannot use it, a paper packet can be requested by email. Fingerprint cards must come from the Board or your nursing program, since other cards are not accepted.
Once every step is complete, Pearson VUE emails your ATT. Follow its instructions, and check your application status online before calling the Board.
The 90-day rule
The Board says your application for examination and your NCLEX registration are valid for the dates on your ATT and expire 90 days after you are authorized to test. If your ATT expires before you test, you must resubmit both applications and both fees. Schedule early.
Common questions
How do I request testing accommodations?
The Board says to contact it before graduation to expedite the approval process, and refers to an NCLEX accommodations packet.
How long does the Board take?
Reports say the Board can take up to eight weeks to process an application depending on volume and when fingerprints arrive. Apply as early as the Board allows.