New Grad - How Long For License?

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Hello, all!

I just graduated on October 14 and am wondering how long it will be before I have the opportunity to take NCLEX. The Live-Scan guy came to our class during the last day of school and fingerprinted us with a mobile unit. Also, we completed the state paperwork and authorizations for background checks during the last week of school.

I have been studying several hours daily and wanted to know when's the soonest I'd have a chance to take NCLEX. My philosophy is to just take it and don't wait too long. Considering a best-case scenario, what is the most I'd need to wait before taking the boards? Thanks! :)

[acebsn05]

To answer your question, I'll tell you my scenario:

State board received my transcript and applications on September 25th. I received my authorization to test on October 3rd, registered with Pearsonvue the same day. I took the NCLEX on the 21st and received my license on the 24th. In other words, once the state board gets your completed application with appropriate fees and transcripts, you should be able to take the exam in 2 weeks. It seems faster this time of year because not a lot of nursing schools finish at this time of year. That's just my scenario. I was pleasantly surprised at how fast it went. I understand your need to take the NCLEX soon...to get it over with, and stuff is still fresh in your head. Good luck!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

State board received my transcript and applications on September 25th.

How do you know when the state board receives your transcript and applications? Do they notify you of their receipt of your paperwork?

I was pleasantly surprised at how fast it went. I understand your need to take the NCLEX soon...to get it over with, and stuff is still fresh in your head. Good luck!

Thanks a whole lot! :)

[suzanne4, RN]

They do not notify you. But be aware that LVN licenses are handled completely different in California. You will not see your name posted with a license number for almost one month. You only pay for the exam when you are going for the license in CA, then once you pass, then you need to send the $100 for the license before it will be issued to you. This is completely different from the RN procedure. And all of it is done by snail mail.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Thanks again! :)

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

By the way, could I possibly register to take NCLEX in another state that processes things much more quickly? Any suggestions? I would have extreme difficulty with being out of work for the next three months.