- Every state develops its own set of nurse practicing guidelines which includes education and licensing requirements. General guidelines apply to most states but it is important to know the laws governing the state in which you want to be licensed. Contact your state's board of nursing for further details.
- All states require that a registered nurse complete a nursing degree. Both online and traditional schools offer nursing degrees. Many nursing programs have a grade point requirement to which you must adhere throughout your academic career. Depending on the state, you may need either an Associates or Bachelor's degree, which can take anywhere from two to five years to obtain.
- In order to be licensed as a registered nurse you must graduate from an accredited college or university and then you must pass your state boards, also known as the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination - Registered Nurse). In order to obtain your license, you must pay a fee and you must pass a background check in most states. Once you have a license, you will have to fulfill your state's requirements for continuing education each year to maintain it.
- Each state sets the passing standards for the NCLEX but the tests are relatively the same. The NCLEX is a computer-based test that consists of a combination of multiple choice, select all, put in order, and pick placement questions that are designed to test your ability to safely practice nursing. NCLEX testing sites are administered by a private company, such as Pearson Vue.
- Review your goals in becoming a nurse. Depending on your career goals you may need an advanced degree, special certifications or licensure in multiple states. Some options available to you include nurse educator, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, travel nursing, strike nursing, floor nursing, intensive care, obstetrics and psychiatric nursing.
