Author: Shincy George | Nursing Manthra
If you are an internationally educated nurse dreaming of working in the United States, Delaware is one of the most nurse-friendly states to begin your journey. It offers a relatively straightforward RN licensure process for IENs (Internationally Educated Nurses), including those from India, the Philippines, Nigeria, and other non-U.S. countries.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the complete Delaware RN license application process — including steps, documents, CGFNS requirements, NCLEX details, fees, and Social Security Number (SSN) guidelines.
✅ Why Choose Delaware for RN Licensure?
- ✔ Accepts Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs)
- ✔ Allows application before having a U.S. SSN
- ✔ Is a Compact State (NLC member) – allows you to practice in 41+ states with one license
- ✔ Clear process with online tracking via DELPROS system
📋 Step-by-Step Guide for Delaware RN Licensure (IEN)

🔹 Step 1: CGFNS CES Professional Report
Delaware Board of Nursing requires all IENs to submit a CGFNS CES Professional Report to evaluate your nursing credentials.
✅ Required documents:
- Academic transcripts from nursing school
- Secondary school certificate
- Verification of home country license
- Proof of English medium of instruction (for waiver)
🌐 Apply here: https://www.cgfns.org
📌 Note: Delaware accepts only the CES Professional Report, not the CP or CVS report.
🔹 Step 2: Register for DELPROS (Delaware Professional Regulation Online Service)
Once your CES report is ready (or in progress), create an account and apply via DELPROS:
🔗 https://delpros.delaware.gov
✅ You will need:
- Personal details
- CGFNS report tracking
- Passport and nursing license copies
- U.S. address (can be your friend, relative, or agency)
🔹 Step 3: Submit Criminal Background Check (CBC)
You must submit fingerprints for an FBI background check.
📍 If you’re outside the U.S., request FD-258 fingerprint cards and complete them through your local police or authorized centers.
Once done, mail the fingerprint card to:
Delaware State Bureau of Identification (SBI)
State Bureau of Identification
P.O. Box 430, Dover, DE 19903
📌 Your CBC must be sent directly from SBI to the Board of Nursing.
🔹 Step 4: Register for the NCLEX-RN
After your application is approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT).
📝 Register for NCLEX at: https://www.pearsonvue.com/nclex
💵 NCLEX-RN Fee: $200 USD
📍 You can choose an exam center in your country if available (e.g., India, UAE, Philippines).


💬 Is Social Security Number (SSN) Required?
- ❌ You do not need an SSN to apply for licensure by examination.
- ✅ However, you must submit your SSN before the Board issues your active RN license.
If you don’t have an SSN yet, your license will be kept pending until submitted.
🗣️ English Proficiency Requirement
IELTS or TOEFL is NOT required if:
- Your nursing education was conducted in English, AND
- The official transcript confirms the medium of instruction as English.
If not, you may be asked to provide an IELTS Academic Score with an overall band of 6.5 or TOEFL equivalent.
💰 Fee Structure
Type | Cost (USD) |
---|---|
CGFNS CES Report | $365 |
Delaware Licensure Application Fee | $156 |
FBI Fingerprint Processing | $50–$75 (depends on location) |
NCLEX Exam | $200 |
💵 Estimated Total: $750–$800
🧪 Delaware Compact License Advantage
Delaware is a Compact State (NLC member). This means:
- If you legally reside in Delaware and meet all eligibility, you can obtain a multi-state license
- This license allows you to work in 41+ U.S. states without needing another license
📌 If you reside in another U.S. state that is not part of NLC, you will receive a single-state license for Delaware only.
🌟 Nursing Manthra Motivation for IENs
At Nursing Manthra, we know how confusing licensing procedures can be — that’s why we are here to help you at every step!
From CGFNS application to NCLEX preparation and final licensing, our team supports you with:
- Proper document checking
- U.S. address guidance
- Personalized consultation
- Study materials to pass your English exam and NCLEX on first attempt
🎓 Whether you’ve just graduated or already have experience, starting early is the key. Even before getting a U.S. job offer or visa, you can complete your Delaware RN licensure and keep it ready!
📞 Need Help with Your Application?
We offer end-to-end support for internationally educated nurses. If you need:
- CES report assistance
- NCLEX coaching
- Address support
- Application submission
👉 Contact Nursing Manthra on WhatsApp — we’re always here to help!
