How to become an RN fast! What are the steps you must take to become a registered nurse (RN)? To become a registered nurse (RN), you must first select a nursing program. You can attend a diploma program, which takes around 2-3 years. However, these are less common. You can also attend an associate degree program, which takes 2-3 years, or a bachelor degree program, which typically takes 4 years. Once you graduate from nursing school, you'll have to pass the state boards exam, which is kno