Expired applying license after NCLEX passed

[RNJ]

I graduated my nursing school Spring 2020, took my NCLEX on following September and passed. Honestly, all of the pandemic I was scared to work and also I had so many family& personal issues so didn’t do anything until now.
 

Yesterday, I started to look up some information to get a job and I realized there is license number who passed NCLEX and I know I don’t have one. Didn’t even know nurse has a license number. When I carefully reread the letter that I passed the NCLEX, it said I have only 1 year to receive license number with fee. (Expired on 9/21) And after 1 year, I have retake the NCLEX.. Is that true? Unbelievable how stupid mistake I made. I called the the center that person who received my call said it’s 3years window (she seems she is not charging with RN license though..) restudying NCLEX is only option I have?? Am I able to get through this? I am very very depressed..

[amoLucia]

Which state?

[RNJ]

On 10/24/2021 at 4:55 PM, amoLucia said:

Which state?

Illinois.. do u have any options I have or any idea either 1 or 3 year expiration in Illinois?

[amoLucia]

Sorry, I can't help. I asked for others who might be able to offer info.

[CoffeeaddictRN85]

that is very strange. In ny when you pass the NCLEX, you automatically are given a license number. I believe in Illinois it is not automatically issues like in NY. I looked online and this is what it states according to Illinois Nurse practice act (225 ILCS 65/ Nurse Practice Act. (ilga.gov))--  An applicant for licensure by examination shall have one year after the date of notification of the successful completion of the examination to apply to the Department for a license. If an applicant fails to apply within one year, the applicant shall be required to retake and pass the examination unless licensed in another jurisdiction of the United States.

please don't get down on yourself. be kind to yourself. you are only human. I guarantee you are not alone in this. It isn't fair in my opinion.