Licensed RN for years. Now need NCLEX to get licensed in another state

ChazzW · Feb 11, 2014

Hi, once a candidate passes the NCLEX, they no longer have to take it, as long as their license is maintained in an active status, meeting the requirements of that State's Board of Nursing. If that is the case, a Licensed RN from one state just needs to visit the new state they would like to get licensed in website or call that State's Board of Nursing to get instructions on how to apply for a licensure in that state, as an already Licensed RN.

Now, in your case, you said you are pre-NCLEX. You would need to verify with the Michigan Board of Nursing that they recognize your licensure and if so, get instructions on how to apply. If they do not, then you may be required to take the NCLEX-RN examination. However, you need to contact them. Google the Michigan Board of Nursing to get their website & number. I would have posted you a link, but there are strict rules on here not to post links. :laugh:

Saifudin · Feb 11, 2014

Thanks ChazzW for the reply. I spoke to someone in the licensing division in Michigan and she said I have to take the NCLEX. Actually, I don't find their website very helpful. If you don't mind, I'd like to ask your opinion on NCLEX prep books. Older versions say 2010 are much cheaper than 2013 books. Do you think there are significant changes in 3 years or so make buying the most recent materials better to purchase?

ChazzW · Feb 11, 2014

Hi Saifudin, The NCLEX Exam test plan was updated as of April 1, 2013, so you definitely want to get the most updated review book, unless you are willing to take the risk with an older/cheaper review book. If you like to speak via email or live, send me a Direct Message.

Saifudin · Feb 11, 2014

Thanks again for the quick response. I worked overseas for 18 years and now back I may be going back to my roots in nursing...

MissyNik · Feb 12, 2014

You would probably benefit from a program like Kaplan for the classroom review since its been 18 years. So does pre-NCLEX mean you never had to take the NCLEX?

Saifudin · Feb 12, 2014

Ouch...yep..pre-NCLEX for you 'young'ins' means state boards administered their own exams. It was not standardized and of course, not computerized. I might have good news. I wrote the the Michigan Nurses Association and what I was told regarding have to test again might be wrong. They are supposed to get back to me tomorrow. Either way, I don't mind a good review anyway and a refresher course is probably necessary. That's not a bad thing even if I don't return to practice. I haven't worked as a staff nurse since 1983, after completing my NP program. I might try to get back to NP practice which will be another intensive review.