Intro
Unlock a career in nursing in the Lone Star State. Discover the Texas Board of Nursing license requirements, application process, and renewal guidelines. Learn about RN, LVN, and APRN licensure, NCLEX exams, and continuing education requirements. Get step-by-step guidance on how to become a licensed nurse in Texas and start your nursing journey today.
The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) is responsible for regulating the practice of nursing in the state of Texas. To ensure public safety, the BON sets and enforces standards for nursing education, licensure, and practice. If you're interested in becoming a licensed nurse in Texas, here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the requirements and application process.
Eligibility Requirements for Nursing Licensure in Texas
To be eligible for nursing licensure in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete an approved nursing education program (ADN or BSN)
- Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam
- Pass a background check
- Pay the required licensing fees
Education Requirements for Nursing Licensure in Texas
The Texas BON requires nursing education programs to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. The program must also be approved by the BON. There are several types of nursing education programs available in Texas, including:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) programs
- Diploma programs
Application Process for Nursing Licensure in Texas
The application process for nursing licensure in Texas involves several steps:
- Submit an application: Create an account on the Texas BON's online portal and submit an application for licensure.
- Pay the application fee: The application fee for RN licensure is $186, while the fee for LVN licensure is $116.
- Provide transcripts: Submit official transcripts from your nursing education program.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam: Register for the exam through Pearson VUE and pass the exam.
- Pass a background check: The Texas BON requires a background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety and the FBI.
- Provide proof of identity: Submit a valid government-issued ID.
- Complete a jurisprudence exam: Take an online exam on Texas nursing laws and regulations.
NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN Exam Requirements
The NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exams are computer-adaptive tests that assess your knowledge and skills in nursing. To pass the exam, you must answer a minimum number of questions correctly within the allotted time.
- NCLEX-RN exam: The exam consists of 75-265 questions and takes up to 6 hours to complete.
- NCLEX-PN exam: The exam consists of 85-205 questions and takes up to 5 hours to complete.
Licensure by Endorsement
If you're already licensed as a nurse in another state, you can apply for licensure by endorsement in Texas. To be eligible, you must:
- Hold a current RN or LVN license in another state
- Meet the Texas BON's education requirements
- Pass a background check
- Pay the required licensure fees
Continuing Education Requirements for Texas Nurses
The Texas BON requires nurses to complete continuing education (CE) courses to maintain their licensure. The requirements include:
- 20 hours of CE: Complete 20 hours of CE courses every 2 years.
- Jurisprudence exam: Take an online exam on Texas nursing laws and regulations every 2 years.
Renewal of Nursing Licensure in Texas
To renew your nursing licensure in Texas, you must:
- Submit an application: Create an account on the Texas BON's online portal and submit an application for renewal.
- Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee for RN licensure is $63, while the fee for LVN licensure is $56.
- Complete CE requirements: Complete the required CE courses and jurisprudence exam.
- Pass a background check: The Texas BON requires a background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety and the FBI.
Reinstatement of Nursing Licensure in Texas
If your nursing licensure has lapsed or been revoked, you can apply for reinstatement. To be eligible, you must:
- Meet the education requirements: Complete an approved nursing education program.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam: Register for the exam through Pearson VUE and pass the exam.
- Pass a background check: The Texas BON requires a background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety and the FBI.
- Pay the reinstatement fee: The reinstatement fee for RN licensure is $186, while the fee for LVN licensure is $116.
We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to navigate the Texas Board of Nursing license requirements and application process. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.
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FAQs
What are the education requirements for nursing licensure in Texas?
+The Texas BON requires nursing education programs to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. The program must also be approved by the BON. There are several types of nursing education programs available in Texas, including Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) programs, and Diploma programs.
How do I apply for nursing licensure by endorsement in Texas?
+If you're already licensed as a nurse in another state, you can apply for licensure by endorsement in Texas. To be eligible, you must hold a current RN or LVN license in another state, meet the Texas BON's education requirements, pass a background check, and pay the required licensure fees.
What are the continuing education requirements for Texas nurses?
+The Texas BON requires nurses to complete continuing education (CE) courses to maintain their licensure. The requirements include 20 hours of CE courses every 2 years and a jurisprudence exam every 2 years.