Texas Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
Texas is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.
License by Exam
Licensure by Examination is the most common pathway for obtaining a nursing license in Texas.
To begin, aspiring nurses must:
- Submit an application to the Texas Board of Nursing along with the required fees and supporting documents, such as transcripts from their nursing program. Once their application is approved, they can then register with Pearson VUE to schedule their NCLEX exam.
- After passing the exam, candidates can:
- Apply for licensure through the Texas Board of Nursing.
- Submit supporting documentation and background check information.
- Pay the required fees online.
License by Endorsement
If you are already a licensed nurse in another state and want to practice nursing in Texas, the licensure by endorsement process is for you! This route allows experienced nurses to transfer their current license to Texas without having to retake the licensing exam.
To begin the licensure by endorsement process, you will need to:
- Submit an application to the Texas State Board of Nursing
- Provide proof of your current and active nursing license in another state, as well as verification from all states where you have ever held a license.
- Submit fingerprints for a background check.
- Pay the required fees.
Once your application is received and reviewed, the Board will determine if you meet all requirements for licensure in Texas. If approved, they will issue you a nursing license allowing you to practice within the state.
Getting a Temporary License
If you're a nurse looking to practice in the state of Texas while awaiting your permanent license, you may be eligible for a temporary license. This temporary license allows nurses to work under certain restrictions until their permanent license is issued.
To obtain a temporary license in Texas, you must first submit an application to the Texas State Board of Nursing (TSBN). The application will require you to provide documentation such as proof of education and completion of required exams.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your temporary license.
Renewing your License
The Texas Board of Nursing requires nurses to renew their licenses every two years. The renewal process can be completed online through the board's website, making it convenient and accessible for busy healthcare professionals.
To initiate the renewal process, nurses must complete a certain number of continuing education hours during each licensing period. Once you have gathered all required documentation and completed your continuing education requirements, you can:
- Submit your renewal application online.
- Provide proof of continuing education hours.
- Pay the required fees.
Contact Info
1801 Congress Avenue
Suite 10-200 Austin, TX 78701
(512) 305-7400
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.
