OBTAINING A NURSING LICENSE:
Obtaining a nursing license is a multi-step process that varies from state to state in the United States. While we can provide a general outline of the steps involved, it’s important to note that specific requirements and procedures can change over time, so it’s always recommended to consult the official website of the state board of nursing for the most up-to-date information.
Nevertheless, here is a general guide on how to get a nursing license in each state:
Research:
Start by researching the nursing license requirements of the state where you intend to practice. Visit the official website of the state board of nursing to understand the specific qualifications, prerequisites, and application procedures.
National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN):
Register for and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN examination. This is a standardized exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). It tests the knowledge and skills necessary to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level registered nurse.
Licensing Fees:
Pay the required fees for application processing, background checks, and initial licensing. The fees vary from state to state.
Criminal Background Check:
Complete any necessary criminal background checks or fingerprinting required by the state board of nursing. Some states may have specific forms or procedures for this step.
Educational Requirements:
Complete the required education for nursing. This typically involves earning a degree from an accredited nursing program, such as a diploma, associate degree in nursing (ADN), or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Some states may have specific requirements regarding the type of nursing program and the accreditation status.
Application for Licensure:
Submit an application for licensure to the state board of nursing. The application usually includes personal information, educational background, verification of completion of an approved nursing program, and evidence of passing the NCLEX-RN. Some states also require fingerprinting and a criminal background check.
Verification of Credentials:
Provide official transcripts from your nursing program to the state board of nursing. They may require these transcripts to be sent directly from your school.
License Issuance:
Once your application is reviewed and approved, the state board of nursing will issue your nursing license. This license allows you to practice as a registered nurse (RN) in that particular state.
It’s advisable to start this process well in advance, as it can take some time to complete all the necessary steps and receive your nursing license.
To help you get started in procuring the relevant license for a job you are interested in, we have listed below Staff DNA’s top 27 states board of nursing websites. The board of nursing websites is where you can read about the state’s licensing process and begin your application for a license.
Alabama
Website: Alabama Board of Nursing
Alaska
Website: Alaska Board of Nursing
Arizona
Website: Arizona Board of Nursing
Arkansas
Website: Arkansas Board of Nursing
California
Website: California Board of Nursing
Colorado
Website: Colorado Board of Nursing
Connecticut
Website: Connecticut Board of Nursing
Delaware
Website: Delaware Board of Nursing
Florida
Website: Florida Board of Nursing
Georgia
Website: Georgia Board of Nursing
Hawaii
Website: Hawaii Board of Nursing
Idaho
Website: Idaho Board of Nursing
Illinois
Website: Illinois Board of Nursing
Indiana
Website: Indiana Board of Nursing
Iowa
Website: Iowa Board of Nursing
Kansas
Website: Kansas Board of Nursing
Kentucky
Website: Kentucky Board of Nursing
Louisiana
Website: Louisiana Board of Nursing
Maine
Website: Maine Board of Nursing
Maryland
Website: Maryland Board of Nursing
Massachusetts
Website: Massachusetts Board of Nursing
Michigan
Website: Michigan Board of Nursing
Minnesota
Website: Minnesota Board of Nursing
Mississippi
Website: Mississippi Board of Nursing
Missouri
Website: Missouri Board of Nursing
Montana
Website: Montana Board of Nursing
Nebraska
Website: Nebraska Board of Nursing
Nevada
Website: Nevada Board of Nursing
New Hampshire
Website: New Hampshire Board of Nursing
New Jersey
Website: New Jersey Board of Nursing
New Mexico
Website: New Mexico Board of Nursing
New York
Website: New York Board of Nursing
North Carolina
Website: North Carolina Board of Nursing
North Dakota
Website: North Dakota Board of Nursing
Ohio
Website: Ohio Board of Nursing
Oklahoma
Website: Oklahoma Board of Nursing
Oregon
Website: Oregon Board of Nursing
Pennsylvania
Website: Pennsylvania Board of Nursing
Rhode Island
Website: Rhode Island Board of Nursing
South Carolina
Website: South Carolina Board of Nursing
South Dakota
Website: South Dakota Board of Nursing
Tennessee
Website: Tennessee Board of Nursing
Texas
Website: Texas Board of Nursing
Utah
Website: Utah Board of Nursing
Vermont
Website: Vermont Board of Nursing
Virginia
Website: Virginia Board of Nursing
Washington
Website: Washington Board of Nursing
West Virginia
Website: West Virginia Board of Nursing
Wisconsin
Website: Wisconsin Board of Nursing
Wyoming
Website: Wyoming Board of Nursing