Author: Shincy George | Nursing Manthra
If you’re an internationally educated nurse (IEN) looking to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the United States, Colorado is one of the best states to apply for licensure. The process is straightforward and does not require a Social Security Number (SSN) at the time of application, which is a major advantage for foreign-trained nurses.
In this blog, I, Shincy George from Nursing Manthra, will walk you through the Colorado RN license application process in detail—especially designed for foreign-educated nurses.
✅ Who Can Apply?
You are eligible if you:
- Completed your nursing education outside the U.S. or Canada.
- Hold a current and valid RN license in your home country.
- Meet English proficiency standards.
- Are ready to take or have already passed the NCLEX-RN.
📋 Step-by-Step Colorado RN License Application Process
1️⃣ Create an Account with DORA
Colorado’s nursing licensure is handled by:
Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) – Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO)
🔗 Colorado DORA Website
- Create an account on the CO portal to apply.
- Select Licensure by Examination (for new nurses).
- Select Licensure by Endorsement (if you already passed NCLEX in another U.S. state).
2️⃣ Submit the Online Application
Documents you will need:
- Valid passport copy
- Nursing diploma/degree
- Official transcripts (translated if not in English)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Fingerprint submission (for background check)
- Payment of non-refundable application fee (~$88 USD)
3️⃣ Credential Evaluation via CGFNS
Colorado requires verification of your nursing education through:
✅ CGFNS CES Professional Report
(Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools)
🔗 www.cgfns.org
Steps:
- Create an account and apply for CES Professional Report.
- Submit official transcripts and license verification.
- CGFNS sends report directly to Colorado BON.
4️⃣ English Language Proficiency
Required unless your nursing program was taught in English in the U.S., UK, Canada (excluding Quebec), Australia, New Zealand, or Ireland.
Accepted Tests & Scores:
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 83 total (with Speaking ≥ 26) |
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, ≥ 6.0 in all modules |
| OET | C+ in all subtests with overall ≥ 300 |
| PTE | 55 overall, minimum 50 per section |
5️⃣ Register for NCLEX-RN
Once your application is approved:
- Register with Pearson VUE: www.pearsonvue.com/nclex
- Pay $200 fee.+177usd
- Wait for your Authorization to Test (ATT).
- Schedule and take the NCLEX-RN.
6️⃣ Criminal Background Check & Fingerprinting
Colorado law requires:
- State and FBI fingerprint-based background checks
- Use IdentoGO or a designated fingerprinting agency
- Submit fingerprints after submitting the online application
- Your license will not be issued until background results are cleared
🔗 Colorado Background Check Info
🧾 Fee Summary
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Colorado RN Application | $88 |
| CGFNS CES Report | $365+ |
| NCLEX Registration | $200 |
| Fingerprinting | $40–$50 |
| IELTS/TOEFL (if required) | Varies |
📌 Final Tips from Nursing Manthra
- You do not need a SSN to apply or sit for NCLEX in Colorado, but you’ll need one before license issuance.
- Submit all documents early to avoid delays.
- CGFNS and NCLEX processes can take 6–8 months, so plan ahead.
- If you already passed the NCLEX in another U.S. state, apply via endorsement, not examination.
💬 Need Support with Colorado RN License?
At Nursing Manthra, we help nurses from India, the Philippines, and around the world:
- Apply for CGFNS
- Register for NCLEX
- Prepare for the exam with our coaching
- Handle documentation and verification
📲 Visit: www.nursingmanthra.com or contact us on WhatsApp for personalized help
