Are you only allowed to practice in the state where you took the NCLEX?

[starmickey03, MSN, RN]

In other words if I take my NCLEX in Michigan and then move to Georgia is it still valid? Or do I have to take the test over again in Georgia?

So basically would I be better off just taking the test in the state where I know I will want to practice for the rest of my life or does it matter...

[Miss Chybil RN, BSN, RN]

You can take the NCLEX anywhere, but you must apply for your license in the state in which you want to practice. Call the Georgia Board of Nursing and ask them how you should proceed.

[Ace587RN, RN]

youll endorse your license in that state, no need to take the test again. N means National in NCLEX for a reason. the GA BON has the info on their website.

[caliotter3]

The NCLEX is taken once for your original license. If you move to another state you will endorse that license into the new state. An exception is if you work for the VA. The VA, a federal institution, will allow you to work in any state with your original nursing license.

[faveispink]

Good Luck!

[Jolie, BSN]

The previous posters are correct that you can endorse your license to a new state without repeating NCLEX. However, doing so takes time and costs money.

You can take NCLEX in any testing center anywhere in the U.S. and send the results to any state for licensure. So, if you graduate in MI and plan to stay there for a few months, you can take NCLEX there, but send the test results to GA and apply for an initial license there. That way you save the time and expense of endorsing your initial license to a new state.

Good luck!