Pennsylvania Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
Pennsylvania is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.
License by Exam
Licensure by Examination is the most common pathway to obtaining a nursing license in Pennsylvania. This process allows individuals who have completed an approved nursing program to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
To begin the licensure by examination process, you must:
- Submit an application with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.
- Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter from Pearson VUE, which is the testing service contracted by the state board. The ATT letter provides instructions on how to schedule your NCLEX-RN exam at a designated testing center.
- After passing the exam, you must:
- Apply for your nursing license with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.
- Pay the required fees.
The State Board will issue a license upon approval of your application.
License by Endorsement
Licensure by endorsement is an option for nurses who have already obtained a nursing license in another state and want to practice in Pennsylvania. This process allows experienced nurses to transfer their credentials without having to retake the licensing exam.
To apply for licensure by endorsement, you will need to:
- Submit an application to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. The application will require you to provide documentation of your current nursing license, as well as any additional requirements specific to Pennsylvania like a background check and fingerprinting.
- Pay the required fees.
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be issued a nursing license in Pennsylvania.
Getting a Temporary License
Temporary Licensure in Pennsylvania is a valuable option for nurses who need to practice in the state temporarily. Whether you're relocating, working on a short-term assignment, or awaiting permanent licensure, obtaining a temporary license allows you to continue serving patients without delay.
To apply for a temporary nursing license in Pennsylvania, you must submit an application to the State Board of Nursing along with the required documentation. This includes proof of education and current licensure from another state or territory. The application fee is typically lower than that of a permanent license.
Once your application is approved, you will be issued a temporary nursing license that is valid for up to six months. During this time, you can work as a nurse in Pennsylvania while satisfying any additional requirements needed for full licensure.
Renewing your License
Keeping your nursing license current is essential to continue practicing in Pennsylvania. The state requires nurses to renew their licenses every two years. This process ensures that nurses stay up-to-date with the latest standards and regulations in the field.
To renew your license, you must:
- Submit an application.
- Pay the required fees.
- Complete the required number of continuing education hours. Pennsylvania requires 30 CE hours per two-year cycle INCLUDING a mandatory 2-hour child abuse recognition and reporting course.
Contact Info
Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing
2525 N 7th Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
+1 833-367-2762
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.
