No state administers an “easiest” nursing exam, as the licensing test—the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN—is a standardized, computer-adaptive examination identical in content and difficulty across all U.S. states and territories. The perceived ease of becoming licensed is influenced not by the exam itself, but by variable state-level requirements surrounding it.

When evaluating where licensure might be less challenging, consider these key institutional factors instead:

State Board of Nursing Requirements: Some states have more stringent prerequisites for sitting for the exam, such as additional coursework or stricter background checks, which can create hurdles before you even test.
Quality of Nursing Education: States with highly-ranked nursing programs often have higher first-time NCLEX pass rates, as graduates are exceptionally well-prepared. This reflects educational strength, not an easier test.
Licensure by Endorsement Policies: The process for transferring an existing license from another state varies in complexity and speed, which can indirectly affect the ease of practicing there.

Therefore, searching for the state with the easiest nursing exam is misguided. Your focus should be on attending a reputable nursing program with high NCLEX pass rates and thoroughly preparing for the standardized exam. Success is determined by individual preparation, not by geographic location. Investigate state board policies for requirements that align with your profile, rather than seeking a non-existent variation in exam difficulty.