California Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
Pre-requisites
The general prerequisites to obtaining a nursing license in the state of California are as follows:
- You must meet the education or licensing requirements set by the California Board of Nursing.
- You must submit an online application and pay the required fees.
- You must provide US citizenship or lawful presence documentation to the California Board of Nursing.
- You must undergo a state and Federal criminal background check.
Remember, a permanent license won't be issued until the background check results are received.
License by Exam
Getting licensed as a nurse by examination in the state of California requires the following steps:
- Confirm Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet California's licensure requirements.
- Confirm You Meet Education Requirements: Hold a Diploma, Associate Degree, or Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing for RNs, or Diploma/Certificate for LPNs from a program approved by the California Board of Nursing.
- Register for a BreEZe account: Register for a BreEZe account (California’s online licensing and enforcement system.)
- RN Initial Exam Application: Select “RN Initial Exam Application” from the BreEZe dropdown menu on the homepage.
- Prepare Appropriate Documentation: Request your official nursing school transcripts, upload citizenship/alien status documentation to the BreEZe portal.
- Pay Fees: You must pay the appropriate application and testing fees associated with licensure.
- Fill out E-application: Fill out the electronic application via BreEZe and submit it to the California Board of Nursing.
- Submit to Fingerprinting/Background Check: Provide fingerprints for criminal record checks (if required).
- Pass the NCLEX Exam: Register with Pearson VUE and pass the NCLEX exam to demonstrate nursing competence.
- Respond to Deficiency Notices: Act promptly to avoid application withdrawal; otherwise, a new application and fee will be required.
After completing the above steps, you’ll be on your way to being licensed as a nurse by exam in the state of California. Now you need to check your application status. Monitor updates through the online nurse portal provided by the state board for about 30 business days.
License by Endorsement
Licensure by endorsement is a process that allows nurses who hold an active license in another state to obtain a nursing license in California without having to retake the licensing exam. This can be particularly beneficial for experienced nurses who are looking to relocate or start working in California.
- You must fill out the appropriate application form and pay the associated fees via the BreEZe online portal (includes application, license, and fingerprint processing).
- Confirm your residency status in the United States.
- Submit your fingerprints for a state and federal background check.
- Verify your nursing license with the AZBN (can be done through Nursys®).
- Have your nursing school mail over your official transcripts to the BRN.
Once you’ve completed the above steps, you’ll be on your way to getting a nursing license by endorsement in the state of California. Applicants can also apply for a temporary nursing permit while they wait for their license by endorsement.
Getting a Multi-state (Compact) License
California is not currently a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses cannot practice in California using a multistate (compact) license. Travel nurses must apply for and receive a California-issued nursing license before beginning practice.
Getting a Temporary License
If you need to work while your nursing license is being processed or you are unable to complete the entire licensing process due to a temporary situation, you may be eligible for a temporary nursing license.
To qualify for a temporary nursing license in California, you must:
- Complete an online application via the BreEZe portal.
- Pay the required fees.
- Provide documentation of your qualifications.
- Meet any other requirements set by the California State Board of Nursing.
You will not be able to practice while your application is being processed, but you will be able to work while your license is being evaluated.
Renewing your License
The California State Board of Nursing requires all nurses to renew their licenses every two years. The expiration date is tied to the nurse's birthday, the license expires the last day of the month following their birth month.
To renew your license, you will need to:
- Complete an online application through the BreEZe online portal.
- Pay the required fees associated with the online application.
- Provide proof of continuing education credits. (California requires 30 CE hours per two-year renewal cycle, including specific hours on specific topics.)
Associated Costs & Fees
You can find a comprehensive breakdown of the associated fees here.
Contact Info
California Board of Registered Nursing
1747 North Market Boulevard, Suite 150
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 322-3350
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, regulatory, or professional advice. Wanderly strives to keep this information up to date but does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness as nursing licensure requirements, renewal cycles, fees, and continuing education obligations vary by state and are subject to change without notice. Nurses are strongly encouraged to visit their state's official nursing board website or contact the board directly to confirm current requirements prior to submitting any application.
