Here's a quick HOW-TO guide in applying for RN licensure (NCLEX) in any U.S. state.
Step 1. Determine which state you intend to work in.
Step 1. Determine which state you intend to work in.
There are many considerations in choosing a state. One would be the prevailing wage rate in the area. This should be considered in relation to the state's tax rates, cost of living, etc. Another consideration is familiarity. Some people prefer to apply for licensure in states where they have friends and relatives already living there. A third consideration is whether or not the state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC is a mutual recognition model of nurse licensure allowing a nurse to have one license but is permitted to practice his/her profession in other participating states.
Step 2. Visit the chosen state's website.
Step 2. Visit the chosen state's website.
U.S. nursing state board websites are listed at the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website at www.ncsbn.org. A complete list of U.S. state boards is also available for download here.
Step 3. Download instructions, application form, and fingerprint cards.
Step 3. Download instructions, application form, and fingerprint cards.
Each state has its own application process and requirements. This is listed at the website of the state. Read and follow the instructions carefully as incomplete or incorrectly filed applications are usually set aside or placed on hold.
Step 4. Submit application forms, payment, and all other requirement as soon as possible.
Step 4. Submit application forms, payment, and all other requirement as soon as possible.
The length of time of processing an application varies from state to state. There are several reasons for this. One is the volume of applications received by the state. California, for example, may take 4-6 months to make an applicant eligible for the exam. New mexico and Vermont, on the other hand, approves applications in 2-4 months. The only factor that the applicant can control in the application process is the timely submission of the required documents. It is also important to make periodic follow-ups on the status of the application. Usually, a contact e-mail address is provided by the state for such purpose. Some states, Vermont for example, post the application status on their website.
Step 5. Once made eligible, register immediately at PeasonVue.
Step 5. Once made eligible, register immediately at PeasonVue.
All NCLEX examinations are administered by PearsonVue Professional Centers. Every eligible applicant must register at PearsonVue to schedule an exam. Scheduling may be done through phone or via the internet. After scheduling the exam, an Authorization to Test (ATT) will be issued to the applicant. This document contains the applicant's name and exam schedule among other things. The ATT and one valid form of identification (Passport) is required for admission at the exam venue.
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