A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Nevada
A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Nevada
Nevada is an attractive state for nurses, offering high median salaries when adjusted for living costs, abundant recreational activities, excellent cuisine, and low crime rates. This makes Nevada a desirable location for nursing licensure.
This guide will cover: - Securing a Nevada nursing license via examination - Acquiring a license through endorsement - Renewal procedures for your nursing license in Nevada - Licensing fees - Continuing education obligations - Contact information for the Nevada Board of Nursing
Let's begin — what's your current nursing status?
How to Obtain a Nevada Nursing License by Examination
Step 1: Educational Requirements
The Nevada Board of Nursing provides a list of approved pre-licensure programs. Completing either a two-year or four-year degree from these accredited programs prepares you for a registered nursing role.
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Accelerated BSN for those with a prior bachelor's interested in nursing.
Step 2: Application Process
Create an account on the Nevada Nurse Portal to start your application. Do not send supporting documents before setting up your account. Submit your application with a $100 fee. Register for the NCLEX via Pearson VUE with a $200 fee, also notified to the Board.
You can request a 90-day Interim Permit after your application and graduation proof submission.
Step 3: Transcript Submission
Request your official transcript from your nursing school to be sent directly to the Board. Nevada graduates will also need an affidavit of graduation from their school. Out-of-state graduates must ensure their transcript is mailed to the Board.
Step 4: Background Check
A permanent license requires fingerprint reports from the Nevada Department of Public Safety and the FBI. Begin this early as it can take up to four months. You may submit fingerprints electronically if in Nevada, or by card. Electronic submission is by appointment in Reno and Las Vegas.
For card submission, use a law enforcement agency or private service with the FD-258 card, valid for a year from printing. Request cards through your application or the nurse portal.
Step 5: NCLEX Examination
After completing previous steps and NCLEX registration, an Authorization to Test is issued by Pearson VUE. The NCLEX checks your understanding of program material and clinical experiences. Topics include: - Safe and Effective Care - Care Management - Safety and Infection Control - Health Promotion - Psychosocial and Physiological Integrity - Basic Care and Comfort - Pharmacological Therapies - Physiological Adaptation
Results are processed in about a week. Your nurse portal will update with results. If passed, no hard card is issued; print your license from the Board's site. Failing the exam allows for up to four attempts.
Licensing by Endorsement for RNs
If you have a license from another state, apply for a Nevada license via endorsement through the Nurse Portal, submitting your application and fee. Requirements include: - Graduation proof, either a diploma copy or direct transcript from your registrar. - Original state license verification or endorsement, via NURSYS if applicable. - Complete electronic fingerprint submission or card submission. A permanent license awaits fingerprint report receipt and issue resolution.
How to Renew a Nevada Nursing License
Step 1: Renewal Application Timeline
The Board doesn't send expiration or renewal reminders. Track these dates yourself. Submit renewal applications on the Nurse Portal 60 days before expiration. The renewal link expires after the 60-day frame. The fee is $100, with late fees applicable post-expiration.
Step 2: Continuing Competency Fulfillment
Nurses must have practiced or passed the NCLEX within five years to renew. After your first renewal post-graduation, complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years, including cultural competency and diversity. A one-time bioterrorism course is also required.
The Board conducts random audits of continuing education, so retain certificates for four years.
Step 3: Renewal Application Submission
Submit your application and fee on the Nurse Portal.
Nevada Nursing Licensing Fees
Review the costs for nursing in Nevada, whether you're a first-time applicant or coming from another state.
Examination Fees: - NCLEX: $200 - Application: $100 (RN); $90 (LPN) - Fingerprint: $40
Endorsement Fees: - Application: $105 (RN); $95 (LPN); $200 (APRN) - Fingerprint: $40
Renewal Fees: - Application: $100 (RN/LPN); $300 (APRN)
*Fees are subject to change.
Continuing Education Requirements: - RN, LPN, APRN: 30 hours biannually; APRNs have additional specialty requirements.
How to Contact the Nevada Board of Nursing
Nevada State Board of Nursing Phone: (888) 590-6726
