Licensing Question - BSN/RN

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · Mar 17, 2014

Well I think all the states use the same NCLEX. So it's the same test and you can test anywhere. We had people going an hour or two up north across state lines because that testing center had an open date earlier. You can get only one ATT so don't apply to both states as an initial licensure graduate.

Now, I would look ask the board of the state you want to work in whether you will need to be first registered in the state where your school was or if you can apply directly to them. You can have multiple licenses, but you usually need to be licensed in one state first and then apply for reciprocity. Keep in mind that each state you're licensed in you will need to make sure you fulfill the CE requirements as some have more or less than others or require so many hours in specific designations.

Your license that you're applying for is RN. BSN is the degree you obtained.

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Mar 17, 2014

NCLEX is a national exam. No reason to pay for a Louisiana license if you don't intend to use it. You can be physically IN Louisiana taking the exam for licensure in another state.

BeachsideRN, ASN · Mar 17, 2014

Thanks! So I can just register, there are no state specific board exams?

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Mar 18, 2014

No. The NCLEX is a national exam. The licenses are state specific as are the licensing requirements.

CrazyGoonRN · Mar 18, 2014

A friend of mine graduated with her BSN in Tennessee and took her NCLEX in Indiana and became licensed in Tennessee. Its a national exam. It dosen't matter where you take it.

Here.I.Stand, BSN, RN · Mar 18, 2014

Right, you can just go onto the BON website of the state you intent to practice in, and apply...you'll have to sit the NCLEX in said state as well. I went to school in one state and am not licensed there. My husband and I left my home state to live in a metro area across the border as soon as my internship was over; we drove back for my graduation/pinning and that was it. I'm only licensed in the state we moved to.

Here.I.Stand, BSN, RN · Mar 18, 2014

A friend of mine graduated with her BSN in Tennessee and took her NCLEX in Indiana and became licensed in Tennessee. Its a national exam. It dosen't matter where you take it.

I guess I stand corrected about the NCLEX location.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Mar 18, 2014

You can go to school in CA, live in IL and apply to IL

BoN , and physically take the NCLEX in NY (results sent back to IL ). Once you pass NCLEX you are done. You can endorse your license to other states and have as many nursing licenses as you can afford to maintain.

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Mar 18, 2014

Thanks! So I can just register, there are no state specific board exams?

There are no state specific board exams. There is only NCLEX and it's national. When you register to take NCLEX, you include your application for initial licensure in whatever state you choose with that along with the fee for licensure in that state. Pearson Vue will then send your results to the state you indicated. So you have to decide what state you'll get your initial license in when you apply for NCLEX but it can be whatever state you want.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Mar 18, 2014

It is generally easier and cheaper to take NCLEX in the same state in which you attended school, as that BON is where your school will send paperwork. After you are licensed you can tranfer get licensed in another state thru reciprocity (all agree that taking one test is good enough). You wil have to provide documentation and pay fees for each state in which you are licensed. You will also have to establish residency in the state in which you intend to work, even if you have multiple licenses. Ech BON might be a little different, so abide by the rules of each state. Good luck.

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Mar 18, 2014

It is generally easier and cheaper to take NCLEX in the same state in which you attended school, as that BON is where your school will send paperwork. After you are licensed you can tranfer get licensed in another state thru reciprocity (all agree that taking one test is good enough). You wil have to provide documentation and pay fees for each state in which you are licensed. You will also have to establish residency in the state in which you intend to work, even if you have multiple licenses. Ech BON might be a little different, so abide by the rules of each state. Good luck.

How is it "cheaper" to take NCLEX in the state that you attended school and then get a second license through reciprocity? Then you have to pay 2 state licensing fees. Schools send your transcripts where you request that they go. There is no reason to pay for a license that you never intend to use.