Healthcare Resource
How to Get an RN License in Illinois (2026)
In brief
Illinois RN licensure 2026: IDFPR endorsement, eNLC compact privilege, processing 4-8 weeks, $72K-92K comp range.
Steps at a glance
Determine path: Compact privilege or full IL endorsement
Illinois is in the eNLC. If you hold a compact RN license in another member state, you have privilege to work in IL automatically. Otherwise apply for full IL endorsement.
Complete IL RN by endorsement application
IDFPR online portal. Fee: $50. NCLEX verification + license verification from any prior states.
Submit fingerprint-based background check
IL State Police + FBI fingerprint check. Live Scan provider. ~$50.
License issuance
4-8 weeks endorsement, 1-3 days compact privilege.
In this article
Illinois RN endorsement 2026: 4-8 weeks via IDFPR, or 1-3 days via eNLC compact privilege if you're already licensed in a member state.
IL RN compensation 2026
| Setting | Median Base |
|---|---|
| Chicago academic (Northwestern, Rush, UChicago) | $78,000 |
| Suburban Chicagoland community | $82,000 |
| ICU / ER specialized | $88,000 |
| Travel RN (13-week) | $92,000 + housing |
Related: Florida RN License, Texas RN License, Illinois NP License.
Hiring in this space?
Ava Health places nurses and allied health professionals across Florida
Permanent, travel, contract, and per diem placement. No fees to candidates.
Explore staffing services →Free tool
2026 Healthcare Salary Calculator
Estimate comp by specialty, state, experience, and practice setting. Based on MGMA, AMGA, and BLS benchmarks.
Try the salary calculator →Get Ava Health updates
Healthcare salary data and market updates from Ava Health. Sign up to hear when new resources are ready.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. We never share your email.