Can I take the NCLEX to obtain a license in two states ?

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Hello all,

I am an RN student in New York, and I graduate in December of 2015. Upon graduation, I plan on taking the NCLEX and relocating to Maryland. I would like to receive my license for Maryland and the District of Columbia in order to broaden my job opportunities as a new graduate. Does anyone know how this would be possible, if at all? I am not sure how all of this works, when I am currently a resident of New York.

Any input is sincerely appreciated! Thank you!

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You can take the NCLEX in NY and apply for endorsement in DC and Maryland. Endorsement means that other states acknowledge that you have taken and passed the NCLEX so they don't require you to take the test again. Each location would have their own requirements so visit their BON websites. Typically you need a background check and also an application on Nursys and then a fee to each locations BON.

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Specializes in NICU.

You can only get "License by Exam" from one state. The school sends your graduation paperwork to the BON of your choice.

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Thank you so much for your detailed answers! So if I have no desire/ reason to get my NY license, I suppose I can have my school send it to Maryland's BON, because that's where I plan on relocating?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.
Thank you so much for your detailed answers! So if I have no desire/ reason to get my NY license, I suppose I can have my school send it to Maryland's BON, because that's where I plan on relocating?

Yes. Apply for a license by examination and provide your school with instructions to send graduation verification

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