Licensing in Tx

[usmc241632]

Hello nurses!

I'm looking to relocate to Tyler after finishing my nursing school here in Chicago. Once I graduate should I take my test here or in Tx? I read somewhere that it's all national now but I assume you still need to get licensed specifically for your state. Any advice on how to proceed?

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

in the US, all professional licensure is regulated at the state level. All states use the same licensing examination (NCLEX) for initial licensure eligibility. However, there are variations from state to state that also affect licensure, such as their individual positions on background issues that may affect eligibility. For instance, some states are much more stringent than others when considering any past criminal issues.

Beginning in 2000, states began to form the "Nurse Licensure Compact" to facilitate the mobility of nurses between states that are members of the compact. Texas is a compact state, but unfortunately, Illinois is not, so the process will be more difficult. If you already have firm plans for relocation, you could move to TX after graduation and take your NCLEX here -- then you would have a TX license. However, I would definitely NOT advise this unless you have a support system in TX because the new grad job market is very tight in many areas of the state, particularly if you are not a BSN grad.

TX also has an additional jurisprudence education requirement for licensure eligibility. Our Nurse Practice Act is unique in many aspects, so it important for any new nurse to be fully informed. You can find all of the information HERE.