How do I apply for my license? | LPN TO RN

Home Health Columnist / Guide · Aug 10

In PA PALS license system, under: "Please select the location of the nursing education program that qualified you for this license"

Select Other US States/ US Territories

Editorial Team / Admin · Aug 11

Im unclear if you want to transfer/endorse your NJ LPN license to PA or apply for your RN license.

If you are wanting to transfer/endorse your LPN License to PA check out this resource on how to do so, from the PA BON - https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/dos/department-and-offices/bpoa/nursing/Online Endorsement Combined Instructions.pdf

Then go to this link to apply for LPN license endorsement from NJ to PA https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dos/department-and-offices/bpoa/boards-commissions/nursing/application-information.html
This link also has instructions and applications for new graduates which you will need for your RN license.

Word of advice, as someone who has endorsed my license from PA to another state and also reactivated my license in PA after 10 years -- make sure to follow the instructions and keep records of all documents submitted (including dates/times/where it was submitted) and follow up. When I first endorsed my license from PA, it was seemingly taking forever, but the state of PA "didn't receive my payment" despite the check having been paid out to the BON.

Most recently, when I re-instated my PA license, their system seemed much improved, but they were still missing my state-mandated CEUs - in PA, it is child abuse, and you can find resources on the PA BON site. While I am not entirely sure if that is also a requirement for LPNs I am pretty positive it is.

If it is your RN license you are referring to, you will have to complete the program and pass the NCLEX-RN before applying for licensure.

Hope this helps!

kbrn2002, ADN, RN · Aug 13

You won't be able to register for the NCLEX until you complete the program. Then you can apply for whatever state you want to get your license in. After you apply and declare what state you are testing for you have to wait for the ATT [authorization to test] before you can schedule the NCLEX. It doesn't matter where you physically are, once you have the approval to test you can take the test at any authorized training center for whatever state you are submitting the license application for.

Every state has its own rules and regs so look at the PA BON website to learn what the requirements for licensure are for that state before submitting the application so you don't miss anything.