Utah Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
Utah is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.
License by Exam
Licensure by Examination is the most common pathway for obtaining a nursing license in Utah.
To begin the journey towards becoming a licensed nurse in Utah, you must:
- Graduate from an accredited nursing program, either BSN or LPN.
- Submit an application to the UtahState Board of Nursing along with all required documents and fees.
- Upon approval of your application, you will receive authorization to register for the NCLEX-RN exam. After passing the NCLEX-RN exam you must:
- Apply for your nursing license through the Utah State Board of Nursing.
- Submit required documentation for background checks and proof of education.
- Pay required fees.
License by Endorsement
Licensure by Endorsement is an option for nurses who hold a current license in another state and wish to practice nursing in Utah. To apply for licensure by endorsement, you must:
- Submit an application to the Utah State Board of Nursing along with supporting documentation. This may include verification of your original nursing education, proof of your current license, and verification of any additional certifications or specialties you hold.
- Pay the required fees.
Once your application is received, it will be reviewed by the Board to ensure that you meet all requirements for licensure in Utah. If approved, you will be issued a nursing license and can begin practicing as a nurse in the state.
Getting a Temporary License
If you're a nurse seeking to work in Utah while waiting for your permanent license, you may be eligible to apply for a temporary license. This temporary license allows you to practice nursing under certain conditions and for a limited period of time.
To obtain a temporary license, you must:
- Submit an application.
- Provide proof of education and licensure from another state.
- Undergo a criminal background check.
- Pay the required fees.
Once granted, the temporary license allows you to practice nursing in Utah for up to six months or until your permanent license is issued, whichever comes first. It's important to note that this type of license is not renewable or transferable.
For more information about obtaining a temporary nursing license in Utah, visit the official website of the Utah State Board of Nursing or contact them directly via phone or email.
Renewing your License
RN licenses in Utah expire January 31st of odd-numbered years, and LPN licenses expire January 31st of even-numbered years.
To renew your license, you will need to:
- Complete a renewal application.
- Provide proof of continuing education requirements being met. Utah's renewal options:
- 400 hours of licensed practice, or,
- 200 hours + 15 CE hours, or,
- 30 CE hours.
- Nurses must also complete 4 specific online suicide prevention training modules at each renewal.
- Submit the required fees.
The Utah State Board of Nursing provides an online portal for easy submission of renewal applications. It is essential to track the expiration date of your license and initiate the renewal process well in advance.
The Board conducts random audits of selected individuals during each renewal cycle to ensure compliance with continuing education requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to keep records of all completed educational activities for future reference.
Contact Info
Heber M. Wells Building 4th Floor
160 East 300 South, PO Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
(801) 530-6628
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.
