License Renewal question and career change advice needed

[GrooveeBabee]

Hello- I have a question and need some advice- if your license has lapsed for a significant amount of time- what is involved? Is it true that you actually may have to take the NCLEX again????

My issue is this- I let my license lapse becuase I don't want to work in nursing anymore- and I got into Pharmaceutical field where it wasn't a requirement to have the actual license- just the background. However- I really do not like what I am doing and miss using my nursing knowledge- so I want to change careers to something where my nursing background is used somehow, but I don't necessarily need to renew my license again.

Are there any career paths where this is possible? I don't mind getting some sort of certification or taking a few courses if needed. I had no idea I would actually have to go through such a process to reinstate my license or I NEVER would have let it expire.

Any advice is appreciated. My background is in Obstetrical nursing.

[PhDRN]

It depends on the original state your license came from and how long your license has lapsed. In my case, my original license was from California and it had been lapsed for 20 years. I had to take NCLEX to reinstate it. It's been 35 years since I've been in nursing school, but I took the exam and passed this week. Other states require a refresher course that includes clinical hours rather than retaking the NCLEX. Start with the Board website for your original license. Good Luck!

[caliotter3]

In CA you have to take the NCLEX again if your license is lapsed for more than four years. You can maintain an unused license in an inactive state by paying a smaller fee than the usual renewal fee. This is what is usually recommended. Most states probably work on a similar basis. I would go on your state's website and see where you stand or call and speak to someone. If it were me, I would maintain an inactive license to avoid another go at NCLEX, well worth the cost. You never know when a license will come in handy, so you want your license to be easily within reach. Good luck.

[PhDRN]

Actually, in California they give you 8 years of lapse before they require NCLEX. It's called the "8 Year Retake" application. There are less draconian measures for re-instating licenses lapsed less than 8 years. So if you are getting close to 8 years, tget on it today!