Nursing licensing by state
State-by-state licensing requirements for foreign-educated registered nurses to pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain licensure with a State Board of Nursing (BON).
Who this pathway suits
Internationally educated nurses seeking RN licensure in the US.
Eligibility at a glance
- Graduation from an accredited nursing education program
- Credential review via CGFNS CES report or directly with state board (e.g. New York, Texas, Florida, Illinois)
- Pass the Next Generation NCLEX-RN examination
- English language proficiency test
How the process works
- Apply to chosen State Board of Nursing
- Complete credential evaluation
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE
- Pass NCLEX-RN
- Obtain state RN license and VisaScreen for EB-3 Green Card
Documents you will typically need
- Nursing degree, transcripts, licensure validation forms, ATT letter, NCLEX score report
What to keep in mind
Registered nurses are designated on Department of Labor Schedule A, completely exempting them from the lengthy PERM recruitment process.
Official source: National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Nursing licensing by state
Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.
Supporting Tools & Verification Checklists
Institutional Legal Services & Representation
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