do i take my NCLEX test in TX or IL?

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i am currently in a nursing program in TX and will be graduating in may. when i graduate i am wanting to move to IL. i am wondering if anyone knows if i can take the NCLEX test in TX but just put i want to be licensed in IL or if i have to take the NCLEX test in IL. TX and IL aren't sister states so i cant do the compact license.

if anyone could help me it would be greatly appreciated

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Specializes in NICU Level III.

You should be able to test in TX for IL, just notate that on the forms you fill out at your school before you graduate.

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Specializes in MICU for 4 years, now PICU for 3 years!.

The NCLEX is a national test, so you could go to Alaska and take it if you wish... Take it where ever you are most comfortable and will be able to get the most studying done after graduation.

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i am currently in a nursing program in TX and will be graduating in may. when i graduate i am wanting to move to IL. i am wondering if anyone knows if i can take the NCLEX test in TX but just put i want to be licensed in IL or if i have to take the NCLEX test in IL. TX and IL aren't sister states so i cant do the compact license.

if anyone could help me it would be greatly appreciated

If you take the test in TX, you can't "put that you want to be" licensed in IL. You would become licensed in TX. Each State has its own requirements for sitting for the NCLEX, so therefore the State you apply to for testing is the one that issues you a license. No State can issue you a license from another State, so that's not an option.

You can apply to IL for an endorsement, but honestly if you plan to work in IL, are moving there shortly, it makes the most sense to take your test there as well. That way, no delays and added expense for endorsements. Getting the endorsement to work in an another State isn't free.

If you meet the testing requirements and licensing requirements for a license in IL, my strong suggestion would be to apply there first, test there, and be done with it. Check with the State BON for IL and see that your school program will meet their requirements, and get everything in order that you need well in advance, so you aren't hung up after the move.

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If you take the test in TX, you can't "put that you want to be" licensed in IL. You would become licensed in TX. Each State has its own requirements for sitting for the NCLEX, so therefore the State you apply to for testing is the one that issues you a license. No State can issue you a license from another State, so that's not an option.

You can apply to IL for an endorsement, but honestly if you plan to work in IL, are moving there shortly, it makes the most sense to take your test there as well. That way, no delays and added expense for endorsements. Getting the endorsement to work in an another State isn't free.

If you meet the testing requirements and licensing requirements for a license in IL, my strong suggestion would be to apply there first, test there, and be done with it. Check with the State BON for IL and see that your school program will meet their requirements, and get everything in order that you need well in advance, so you aren't hung up after the move.

The NCLEX is a national exam. It's the same in any state you take it. And you can sit in one state and take the exam for another. You do need to give proper notification through your school ahead of time.

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Specializes in SRNA.

You can take the NCLEX in whatever state you want. I took the NCLEX in California and got my initial nursing license in Nevada. You do not have to take the NCLEX in the state that you want to get licensed in.

It all depends on which Board of Nursing you initially apply for your license at.

If you want to move to IL, check out the IL Board of Nursing website and look for directions on how to apply for a nursing license by examination. Most likely, they will just require your school(s) to provide transcripts.

Once you get your Approval to Test (ATT) and you make your appointment to test, you can select any Pearson-Vue testing center to take your test at and you also select which Board of Nursing you want the results to be sent to.

If you aren't going to live/work in Texas, don't bother getting a license there!

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thank you sooo much! that really helps me out :)

RENO1978 so will i have to do my fingerprints and background check in IL still or can i just do it in TX?

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Specializes in Developmentally Disabled, LTC, Clinic, Hospital.
thank you sooo much! that really helps me out :)

RENO1978 so will i have to do my fingerprints and background check in IL still or can i just do it in TX?

You will have to be fingerprinted and backgrounded in IL. They are real buggers from what I understand. I am licensed in Indiana because I live here, but since I live on the state line, I am considering getting my IL license so I have more freedom in picking a job. I was told that it would have been easier for me to get my IL license initially and then apply for reciprocity in Indiana. I will graduate (good Lord willing and the creek don't rise, lol) in May with my RN, and I am going to do the Illinois license first.

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i am from IL and moved to TX and did my nursing here. BUT i have heard the same thing that it is easier to have an IL license and go to another state than it is to have another state license and get one in IL. grrrr!

so will you be taking the NCLEX in IN???

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