Is SSN mandatory to get the license as a RN?

BinkieRN, BSN, RN · Sep 19, 2008

I apologize if this thread was already discussed. I am in serious confusion about SSN requirement to sit in NCLEX exam in any US state nursing board. Why and When SSN is needed for any international applicant during the application for RN? If I don't have SSN, does that mean I will not get a RN license even if I passed the NCLEX? I will appreciate any posting that are relevent to this thread, and certainly will be helpful for my understanding.
Thank you for your time!

I don't know about needing your SSN to take the NCLEX but you'll never be able to work in the US without a SSN.

Silverdragon102, BSN · Sep 19, 2008

You do not need a SSN to apply for licensure as a foreign nurse however some states will not issue a license without a SSN and that you will not get until in the US and have a valid work visa. Currently with retrogression it will take years. If Ca is the BRN then you have 3 years to supply a SSN and if not they will destroy your file which includes your NCLEX results. They may give you an extension of 12 months as long as you apply before your time is up or apply for licensure with another BON and move your NCLEX results across. Much has already been written about SSN suggest a search

sudeni · Sep 19, 2008

I don't know about needing your SSN to take the NCLEX but you'll never be able to work in the US without a SSN.

Thank u for your response.....I am afraid I am still not clear....U mean I don't need SSN to get a license as a RN but to practice nursing. I am after this question because in my understanding it will be easy and fast to complete BSN here in the USA if I have a valid RN license.

:yeah:

BinkieRN, BSN, RN · Sep 19, 2008

I am after this question because in my understanding it will be easy and fast to complete BSN here in the USA if I have a valid RN license.

I think someone has given you the wrong information.

suzanne4, RN · Sep 19, 2008

Every state will permit you to sit for the NCLEX exam without having a SSN#, but many are not issuing a license to you without having the SSN#.

In order for you to get permission to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, you would have completed the requirements for the RN license. You may be wishing to continue your studies to get the BSN, but that would not require that you take a full four year program to obtain.

But you need to be aware that even if you come to the US to complete your BSN, that will not grant you permission to remain in the US to work afterwards. We have a retrogression that has been in effect for close to two years already. No special attention is given to those that attend school here in terms of getting a visa to work here afterwards.

Best of luck to you, would recommend that you take the time to do some reading here about what is actually happening here right now and not just concentrate on the actual license.