Tennessee Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
Tennessee is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.
License by Exam
Licensure by Examination is the most common pathway for obtaining a nursing license in Tennessee.
To begin the process, aspiring nurses must:
- Submit an application to the Tennessee State Board of Nursing (BON) along with all required documents and fees. These documents typically include official transcripts from their nursing program, a criminal background check, and verification of passing scores on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN).
- Once the BON reviews and approves the application, candidates can register with Pearson VUE to schedule their NCLEX examination. The exam itself assesses knowledge and competency in various areas of nursing practice.
- After successfully passing the NCLEX, applicants will need to:
- Apply for a nursing license.
- Provide additional documentation (such as proof of citizenship or legal presence, background checks, fingerprints) before receiving their license.
- Pay required fees.
License by Endorsement
Licensure by Endorsement is an option for nurses who already hold a nursing license in another state and wish to practice in Tennessee.
To apply for licensure by endorsement, you must:
- Submit an application to the Tennessee State Board of Nursing along with supporting documentation such as verification of your current license, official transcripts, and proof of any additional certifications or training you have obtained.
- Pay the required fees.
Once your application is received, it will be reviewed by the Board to determine if you meet all eligibility criteria. If approved, you will be issued a Tennessee nursing license which allows you to legally practice within the state.
Getting a Temporary License
If you're a nurse who is looking to practice in Tennessee but haven't yet obtained your permanent license, don't worry! The state offers a temporary license option that allows you to practice while you work towards meeting the requirements for full licensure.
To be eligible for a temporary license, you must have already completed an approved nursing education program and passed the NCLEX exam. Additionally, you'll need to submit an application and pay the required fees. Once approved, your temporary license will typically be valid for six months.
Renewing your License
Nursing licenses in Tennessee are renewed every two years (biennially), and they expire on the last day of the nurse’s birth month.
To renew your nursing license in Tennessee, you will need to:
- Submit an online application through the Board's website. This application typically requires information such as your personal details, contact information, and employment history.
- You may also need to provide documentation of any continuing education or professional development courses that you have completed. Tennessee uses a continuing competency model - nurses must demonstrate two items from a list including employer evaluations, peer reviews, 5 CE hours, published articles, or active practice documentation. Non-practicing nurses need 10 CE hours.
The exact requirements for license renewal may vary depending on factors such as the type of nursing certification held and any additional credentials obtained since initial licensure. It is advisable always to review the specific guidelines provided by the Tennessee State Board of Nursing for accurate information regarding renewal requirements.
Contact Info
Tennessee State Board of Nursing
665 Mainstream Drive
Nashville, TN 37243
(615) 532-5166
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.
