Moving to TX- What Are the Steps for Obtaining a License?

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Hello,

I am finishing up my FNP program this year, and I am planning on moving to Texas within the next year. I currently live in Alabama, and I have heard mixed things about the Texas BON. I have heard there is an extra test you have to take just to get your Texas nursing license. When would you guys suggest starting the process on getting first a Texas RN license, and then an APRN license? I read on the website that you must have your Texas RN license prior to obtaining a APRN license. Thanks! Also, I am planning on moving to San Antonio, so any tips or advice for that area's job search would be appreciated.

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Specializes in Emergency Department.

Hi,

I'm a travel nurse and there is a test you have to take for your Texas license. I've never taken it, but I've been told by many other nurses that it's very basic. It's called the Nursing Jurisprudence Exam.

Welcome to the Texas Board of Nursing - Google Analytics

In regards to you getting your Texas license. Most states require you to apply for license by endorsement, send fingerprint cards, get your nursing license verified from another state (endorsed)[Texas requires every state you're licensed in to verify you] and pay an application fee (anywhere from $50 - $450)

Here's more about the licensure by endorsement process for Texas:

Texas Board of Nursing - Endorsement

I can't answer your questions about having your RN to get your APRN. I would suggest calling the TBON and ask them, but my NP friends in Georgia have told me they are required to keep their RN license active to maintain their NP license and I think that's a standard requirement.

Here are the TBON fees:

Texas Board of Nursing - Schedule of Fees

I think Texas usually takes about 2 - 4 weeks from receiving everything to issue your license, they're pretty quick from what I've heard.

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Thank you for the information :) I still have a few months left, but I want to start the process early so anything helps.

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Specializes in ICU.

Why Texas?

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We are moving out there for my husband's job.

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Specializes in ER, PCU, UCC, Observation medicine.

I first had my RN license in PA for 4 years. Then I applied for my Texas RN. I didn't take a test, at least none I remember. I had an active RN license already so I just sent them paperwork and a check. Getting the license was easy.

When you finish your NP program you're going to want to have your RN for Texas already. It will make things easier. Basically your program director will send Texas BON a notice that you graduated the program. Then you take your boards. Then you can apply for state license.

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Don't you think the best place to get this information is the Texas BON?

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just read everything in the website thoroughly. Jurisprudence exam is a one time thing. I never had to take it since when I graduated it wasn't implemented yet. So i just took CEU. You should try to obtain your RN license in TX prior to your NP. As far of job market in SA, may take a while. you may have to apply outside SA like maybe 30 mins to 1 hour away. There are places hiring in SA but it can be competitive for new grads. Join the Texas Nurse Practitioners group they have job postings.

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