NCLEX- Test for more than one state?

When I sit for the NCLEX can I test out of more than one state in a sitting? Do I have to reside in each state I'm interested in testing for? Thanks.

I think I understand your question. You only take NCLEX once (unless you fail the first time around and have to retake). If you're licensed in Ohio and want to move to Hawaii you'll have to apply for a license through the Hawaii board of nursing. You don't have to take NCLEX in every state you want to practice in. Hope this answers your question.

I think I understand your question. You only take NCLEX once (unless you fail the first time around and have to retake). If you're licensed in Ohio and want to move to Hawaii you'll have to apply for a license through the Hawaii board of nursing. You don't have to take NCLEX in every state you want to practice in. Hope this answers your question.

Thanks for the reply. So after I pass the NCLEX I am licensed in the state I took the exam, but no others until I apply for a license (probably pay some money, no test) in the state I plan to move to? Do traveling nurses have to do this when they travel to multiple states? Thanks again!

When you pass the test you will be licensed only in that state. However, many states are now "compact", meaning they recognize the license from other states that have signed the compact agreement. Your license will be from the state in which you primarily reside. This means a Texas nurse can live in TX and work in Louisiana with a TX license. If the state you are in is not on the compact list you will need a license for each state in which you plan to practice. Go to this site to find out which states are compact.

http://www.ncsbn.org

All states are reciprocal, meaning you don't have to re-test.

The above site also lists all the Boards of Nursing so you can get the real scoop from the right people. Good luck with your NCLEX!