Oklahoma Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
Oklahoma is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.
License by Exam
Licensure by Examination is one of the pathways to obtaining a nursing license in Oklahoma. This process is designed for individuals who have completed an approved nursing education program and are ready to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) or Licensed Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
To start the licensure by examination process, you will need to:
- Submit an application to the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing. This application includes providing your personal information, educational background, and other required documents. Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE, which allows you to schedule your NCLEX exam.
- After passing the NCLEX exam, you can:
- Apply for your nursing license through submission of additional documentation required by the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing.
- Pay the required fees.
License by Endorsement
If you're a nurse who already holds a license in another state and is looking to practice in Oklahoma, the process of licensure by endorsement may be your best option. This pathway allows experienced nurses to transfer their credentials from one state to another without having to retake the licensing exam.
To begin the process, you'll need to:
- Submit an application for licensure by endorsement. The application will require you to provide documentation of your current nursing license and proof of education. You may also need to request verification from your previous state's board of nursing.
- Pay the required fees.
Once your application has been received and reviewed, the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing will determine if you meet all requirements for licensure in the state. If approved, you'll then be issued an Oklahoma nursing license.
Getting a Temporary License
If you're a nurse looking to practice in Oklahoma on a temporary basis, you'll need to obtain a temporary license from the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing.
To apply for temporary licensing, you'll need to:
- Submit an application and provide documentation such as proof of current licensure, verification of employment, and any additional requirements specified by the board.
- Pay the required fees.
It's important to note that temporary licenses are not renewable and cannot be extended beyond the 90 days initial validity period granted. Once approved, you can begin practicing nursing in Oklahoma under your temporary license.
Renewing your License
Oklahoma nursing licenses are renewed every two years (biennially). A renewal schedule is published by the Board. Licenses typically expire on the last day of your birth month, and you can begin the renewal process up to 90 days before expiration through the Nurse Portal.
The process for renewing your nursing license in Oklahoma is relatively straightforward. You will need to:
- Submit an application for renewal.
- Pay the required fees to the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing.
- Provide proof of continuing education hours. To renew your RN or LPN license, you must demonstrate evidence of continuing qualifications for practice within the two years prior to expiration by completing one or more of the following:
- 520 work hours in a position requiring a nurse license (RN or LPN).
- 24 contact hours of continuing education applicable to nursing practice.
- Current specialty certification in a nursing area.
- Board-approved refresher course completion.
- Six (6) academic semester credit hours of nursing coursework at your level of licensure.
Contact Info
Oklahoma State Board of Nursing
2501 N. Lincoln Blvd., Ste. 207
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 962-1800
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.
