License by exam vs. endorsement

[rdavis37]

I recently got my first nursing job in Oregon. I applied for licensure in Colorado because I thought that's where I was going to work, but my plans changed. My NCLEX is June 21, and the Colorado BON takes about 3-4 weeks to process your application. I'm supposed to start my job in Oregon on August 7. This leaves 2-3 weeks for Oregon to process my endorsement application. Anyone know if this will allow enough time? I've been reading some of the threads and it seems Oregon can be slow, plus it is summer so it's a busy time. I've called both boards and they don't move your application up or anything, which I expected. My other option is to cancel my application for Colorado and just start over with Oregon. Anyone have advice? Thanks!

[klone, MSN, RN]

If you're going to work in Oregon, I recommend going through the Oregon BON for your licensure, and skip Colorado. No sense in paying for two licenses, and the process will take longer. You can still take the exam in Colorado (or anywhere you want).

[Orca, ADN, ASN, RN]

I wouldn't count on an endorsement being completed in 2-3 weeks. Some states (like mine) require the submission of fingerprint cards, which are processed by the state bureau of investigation before the BON does anything. As you can imagine, pre-licensure screenings aren't their top priority. The above is sound advice.

[Cvepo]

I wouldn't count on an endorsement being completed in 2-3 weeks. Some states (like mine) require the submission of fingerprint cards, which are processed by the state bureau of investigation before the BON does anything. As you can imagine, pre-licensure screenings aren't their top priority. The above is sound advice.

With timely instruction following, I got my Oregon license is about 3 weeks. And that was with fingerprinting, etc.