A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Texas
Navigating Nursing Licensing and Renewals in Texas
Texas, the largest state in the continental U.S., offers diverse environments from deserts to subtropical areas, vibrant cities, and numerous innovative hospitals. Notably, Texas has no state income tax, making it an attractive place for healthcare professionals.
This guide will explore:
Acquiring a Texas nursing license via examination Obtaining licensure through endorsement Renewing your nursing license in Texas Associated fees Continuing education requirements Contact information for the Texas Board of Nursing
Discover job opportunities in your vicinity and find answers to your nursing career queries.
Let’s begin. What is your current profession? - Registered Nurse - Nursing Manager - Other
Obtaining a Texas Nursing License by Examination
Step 1: Educational Requirements The Texas Board of Nursing authorizes over 130 nursing education programs, licensing more than 27,000 new nurses each year. As you approach graduation from an associate or bachelor's degree program, it’s time to initiate your licensing application.
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Accelerated BSN for holders of a prior degree
Step 2: Application Process Applications must be submitted online via the Texas Nurse Portal. A valid email is essential for communication. Create a portal account to apply, renew, and update personal information.
To apply for a Texas nursing license, complete the online form and pay a $75 fee. A criminal background check is mandatory, along with submitting an Affidavit of Graduation and completing the Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Examination.
Register with Pearson VUE to take the NCLEX exam about 30 days before your graduation. This test costs $200.
Step 3: Submit Affidavit of Graduation Graduates from Texas nursing schools will have their affidavits automatically submitted. Those from out-of-state programs must send completed affidavits to the Texas Board via email.
Step 4: Criminal Background Check A criminal background check is required. Texas residents should book fingerprinting with MorphoTrust USA at an IdentoGo center, using code 119TF2, and bring a photo ID and payment.
Non-residents need a FAST Pass for ink card registration, following IdentoGO’s online or phone instructions.
Step 5: Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam Fifteen days post-application, you’ll get instructions for the online jurisprudence exam. It consists of 50 questions and requires a 75% pass rate. Retakes are allowed after 24 hours if needed.
Step 6: Taking the NCLEX Once your application, fees, background check, affidavit, and exam are processed, the Texas Board will notify Pearson VUE about your NCLEX eligibility. You’ll have 75 days to complete this exam, covering topics like:
- Safe and Effective Care - Care Management - Safety and Infection Control - Health Promotion - Psychosocial and Physiological Integrity - Basic and Pharmacological Care
Passing the NCLEX grants a certificate and online license verification. Failures can retake the exam every 45 days over four years.
Licensing via Endorsement Nurses licensed in other states can apply for Texas licensure via endorsement for $150. A temporary license may be granted within 15 business days, allowing practice for up to 120 days.
Applicants must have a Social Security number, no significant legal issues, and recent practice or NCLEX completion. Verification from all licensed states is required, often through the NURSYS system. The Nursing Jurisprudence Exam must also be passed.
Renewing a Texas Nursing License
Step 1: Renewal Application Post-examination or endorsement, licenses last 6-29 months, then renew every two years. The renewal fee is $68. Sixty days before expiration, a renewal notice is mailed.
Step 2: Continuing Education Renewing nurses must complete 20 hours of continuing education. First-time renewers are exempt. Certificates are needed only if audited.
Step 3: Submit Renewal Application Renew online via the Texas Board of Nursing portal.
License Fees - NCLEX: $200 - Application: $75 - Fingerprinting: $41.50
Endorsement Fees - Application: $150 - Fingerprinting: $41.50
Renewal Fees - RN: $68; LPN: $45; APRN: $50 (plus additional fees for Rx authority)
Texas is a compact state, allowing multi-state licenses.
Continuing Education Requirements - RN/LVN: 20 contact hours every 2 years - APRN: 20 hours or maintain national certification
Contact the Texas Board of Nursing: - Phone: (512) 305-7400 - Fax: (512) 305-7401 - Website: Texas Board of Nursing
