applying for NP license in CA

[Peach Toadstool]

Hello everyone!

I am graduating FNP school soon and I am a bit confused on how to apply for my NP license in CA. I know that you technically do not need to pass a certification exam in CA as long as you went to one of the approved schools. However, most employment facilities would like you to be certified.

My question is, what to do first? Do you apply in the BRN first, or take your exam first? I have a foreign BSN ( Philippines) but I have an CA RN license and I have been an acute hospital nurse for eight years. Would this have any bearing whatsoever in my NP license application? How about in looking for work?

Thank you very much!!!

[Corey Narry, MSN, RN, NP]

You should be able to apply to the BRN now but you should also send in your application to take the national certification exam. It doesn't matter where you received your BSN, you are an RN in California and you graduated from a California approved NP program.

Note: I have an RN/NP/NPF in California but received all my education outside of California. It's interesting how California programs seem to provide little guidance to graduates in navigating the BRN rules.

[Goldenfox]

I agree with Juan. Apply for your NP license now because the California board takes a long time to process applications and if you try to call them or write to them about the process or status of your application you're not going to get anywhere. Send it in with all of their required paperwork and wait at least six to eight weeks. Being a California RN is a requirement but it will not make them process your NP license any faster. Their website is a mess. They allow you to apply online if you are a CRNA but if you are applying for any other type of advance practice license you have to do the paper applications.

Juan is also correct in recommending that you take the national boards ASAP because even though the California board doesn't require it in your case pretty much every employer in the state will require it before considering you for a job.

[kay26, BSN]

hello, peach!

I know this thread is old but I was wondering how did you application for your CA NP license go, being a foreign BSN grad?

thank you ?

[sarasmile1]

Hi Juan (or anyone else in a similar boat),

I know this thread is old but there is still little guidance. Im also in CA with my CA RN license, I did out of state NP school that is approved under our BON.  So do I apply under method 1? Or what method should I apply for while awaiting to take my board certification exam?… I have a job offer but they would like me to start right away. Any guidance is appreciated. Thanks in Advance!