Working as a registered nurse (RN) in California

Working as a registered nurse (RN) in California often means stepping into a state known for leading healthcare systems, advanced medical research, and steady demand for skilled nursing professionals. High-paying per diem (PRN) roles can offer flexibility and good compensation, appealing to nurses who value control over their schedules.

RN job responsibilities and duties

Registered nurses responsibilities in California don’t vary widely from other states and can include the following responsibilities:

• Conduct patient assessments and monitor health status
• Maintain accurate patient records and documentation
• Administer medications, therapies, and treatments
• Collaborate with physicians and other healthcare providers
• Educate patients and families on care plans and preventive health
• Support procedures and ensure patient comfort and safety

Required education, license, and certifications for RNs in California

To practice in California, RNs must:

• Complete an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN)
• Pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam
• Apply for a California RN license and undergo a background check
• Hold current BLS certification; ACLS, PALS, or other certifications may be needed depending on the role
• Meet continuing education requirements for license renewal

California does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, so nurses with multi-state licenses must still obtain a California-specific license.

What RNs need to know about working in California

California is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, so any nurses hoping to work after relocating from another state must secure a California license. California’s well-established nurse-to-patient ratio laws support safer work conditions and reinforce quality patient care. 

Cost of living

California’s cost of living is generally higher than many other states. Housing and other expenses can be steep, especially in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. More affordable options may be found inland or in smaller communities. Nurses often weigh the higher wages against the increased costs. Some choose to commute from more cost-effective areas to high-paying urban facilities to strike a better balance.

Major health systems and key medical facilities

California hosts renowned health systems, giving RNs access to top-tier medical environments:

• University of California Health: Academic medical centers known for research and specialized care.
• Cedars-Sinai (Los Angeles): A top-ranked hospital recognized for cutting-edge specialties and treatments.
• Kaiser Permanente: A large integrated system offering consistent patient-centered care.
• Stanford Health Care: A leader in advanced research and innovation.
• Scripps Health and Sharp HealthCare (San Diego): Known for diverse specialties and growth opportunities.

Beyond these, numerous smaller hospitals, clinics, and care facilities span the state, providing a wide range of professional paths.

Nursing education

Nursing programs in California are offered through community colleges, the CSU system, private universities, and prestigious institutions like UCSF and UCLA. These schools often rank highly and emphasize evidence-based practice, technological skills, and cultural competency. RNs can otherwise advance their careers by pursuing BSN degrees, graduate programs, and specialty certifications that reflect California’s commitment to high-quality nursing education.

Professional organizations and programs

RNs in California can find support and build connections by joining or reaching out to the following local professional organizations throughout the state:

• California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN): Oversees licensing and practice standards.
• California Nurses Association (CNA): Offers resources on advocacy, education, and workplace rights.
• American Nurses Association\California (ANA\C): Provides professional development, networking, and industry updates.
• Specialty organizations for fields like critical care, emergency, and surgical nursing offer focused support.
• Many health systems provide residencies and fellowships for new graduates or opportunities for seasoned nurses to specialize further.

‍