State of Georgia Nursing Standards

You must meet several requirements to become a nurse in Georgia

Becoming a nurse in Georgia requires you meet several standards set by the Georgia Nursing Board. You must complete proper training and testing before getting your license. As with any state, Georgia sets strict guidelines for nurses to ensure the safety of patients.

Education

To become a nurse in Georgia, you must graduate from a nursing school approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. Licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) typically complete one year of training either in a hospital or community college. Registered nurses (RNs) may choose an associate of science in nursing, which is a two- year degree. Others may choose to get a bachelor of science in nursing.

Examination

Once you complete your education and graduate, you must take a national certification test. The test is called the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Depending on your degree, you will either take the NCLEX-RN, for registered nurses, or the NCLEX-PN for LPNs or LVNs.

Criminal Background Check

Part of ensuring the nurses of Georgia are competent and reliable is conducting criminal background checks. If you have a felony on your record, the State Board will not automatically disqualify you from licensure. They take into account factors such as how long ago the conviction was and if it involved violence or sexual misconduct.

Application

Once you have completed all steps, you must submit an application for your nursing license in Georgia. The 2010 price for the application is $40, according to the State Board of Nursing.

References

• All Nursing Schools: Types of Nursing Programs
• State of Georgia: Georgia Board of Nursing