New RN licensure

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So this might be a stupid question, but...

Upon my graduation in Dec 2012 and my passing of the NCLEX, do I have to start working as an RN before a certain time frame (i.e. 1 year, 2 years) in order to keep my license? Or could I graduate, get my license, then take a couple years off (not working as a nurse)?

Thanks!

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Specializes in ED.

You can graduate and take time off. However, after 1 year you are no longer consider a "new grad" according to some health care recruiters. Which will make you ineligible for the new grad internships and positions. Without that experience you will have to fight harder to get them to give you a chance. In 2012, 2013, or 2014 the economy may be recovering and new grad positions may not be so hard to get.

I would consider why you are taking time off, what you will be doing to maintain and gain skills, and how you plan to make yourself marketable as a non-new grad with no experience; as you decide whether or not you should take time off.

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Ok, thanks. But the Board in Texas won't revoke my license just because I took a year off? And it's a mandatory year off that I'll have to take due to personal reasons (I don't really have a say in this).

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Taking the time "off" won't affect your license, but it will make you much less desirable and competitive as an applicant when you do start looking for work. Employers will be much more interested in either nurses who have actual experience, or the new grads who are fresh out of school. You will be neither. They would have to have no applicants from either of those groups before they would be interested in hiring you. If there is any way for you to avoid taking the time off, I would really encourage you to not do it.

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Specializes in NICU Level III.

If you have to take the time off, you're likely to be asked about the reason why in interviews so have something that puts you in a favorable light ready!

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