NCLEX State Requirements — Complete Guide
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Pearson VUE
Testing Center
NCLEX Quick Results
One of the most anxious moments for nursing graduates is waiting for NCLEX results. Here's what you need to know about the NCLEX Quick Results service:
- Availability: Unofficial results are available approximately 48 hours after completing the exam through the Pearson VUE website
- Cost: $7.95 for the quick results service
- Accuracy: Quick results are unofficial but have proven to be highly accurate
- Official results: Your state board of nursing will issue official results, typically within 2-6 weeks
Note: Quick Results are NOT available in all states. Illinois, Georgia, and a few other states do not participate in the quick results program.
State-by-State NCLEX Requirements
Each state Board of Nursing has slightly different requirements for NCLEX eligibility. However, all states share these common requirements:
- Graduation from an approved nursing program (ADN, BSN, or diploma)
- Criminal background check
- Application to the state Board of Nursing
- Registration with Pearson VUE to take the NCLEX
- Valid identification for exam day
Key Differences Between States
While the NCLEX exam itself is the same nationwide, states differ in:
- Application fees: Range from $75 to $200+ depending on the state
- Background check requirements: Some states require FBI fingerprint checks, others accept state-level checks
- Continuing education: Requirements for license renewal vary from 0 to 30+ hours per renewal period
- Temporary permits: Some states issue temporary practice permits while waiting for NCLEX results
- Compact licensure: 40+ states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice across state lines
CA BRN Requirements:
- Application fee: $150
- Fingerprint/background check required (LiveScan)
- No temporary permit issued
- NOT a Compact state
- Renewal: every 2 years, 30 CE hours required
TX BON Requirements:
- Application fee: $186
- Fingerprint/background check required
- Temporary Graduate Nurse Permit available
- Compact state (NLC member)
- Renewal: every 2 years, no CE required for first renewal
NY SED Requirements:
- Application fee: $143
- No fingerprint required for initial license
- Limited permit available (must work under supervision)
- NOT a Compact state
- Renewal: every 4 years, requires infection control coursework
FL DOH Requirements:
- Application fee: $110 + $75 exam fee
- Level 2 background screening required
- Temporary license not available
- Compact state (NLC member)
- Renewal: every 2 years, 24 CE hours + 2 hours on human trafficking
The NCLEX application involves two separate registrations:
Step 1: Apply to Your State Board of Nursing
Submit your application to the Board of Nursing in the state where you want to be licensed. This typically includes your nursing program transcript, application fee, and background check consent.
Step 2: Register with Pearson VUE
Once your state board approves your eligibility, you'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT). Register at pearsonvue.com/nclex and pay the $200 NCLEX examination fee.
Step 3: Schedule Your Exam
After receiving your ATT (via email), schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. ATTs are valid for 60-90 days depending on your state. Schedule early — popular dates fill quickly.
NCLEX Retake Policies
If you don't pass the NCLEX on your first attempt, here's what you need to know:
- Waiting period: You must wait a minimum of 45 days before retaking the exam
- Re-registration: You'll need to re-register with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee again
- State limits: Most states allow unlimited retakes, but some have limits (e.g., 8 attempts in some jurisdictions)
- New ATT: You'll need a new Authorization to Test from your state board
- Study strategy: Use your NCLEX Candidate Performance Report (CPR) to identify weak areas
Verify your nursing program is approved by your state board Submit application to your state Board of Nursing Complete background check/fingerprinting Register with Pearson VUE at pearsonvue.com/nclex Pay the $200 NCLEX examination fee Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) via email Schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center Bring valid government-issued photo ID on exam day Check Quick Results after 48 hours ($7.95) Monitor your state board website for official license posting NCLEX: Pros and Cons
Pros
- nclex practice test — nCLEX credential is recognized by employers and industry professionals
- Higher earning potential compared to non-credentialed peers
- Expanded career opportunities and professional advancement
- Structured learning path builds comprehensive knowledge
- Professional development that stays current with industry standards
Cons
- Preparation requires significant time and study commitment
- Associated costs for exams, materials, and renewal fees
- Continuing education needed to maintain credentials
- Competition for advanced positions can be challenging
- Requirements and standards may vary by state or region
How long does it take to get NCLEX results?
Unofficial NCLEX Quick Results are available approximately 48 hours after the exam for $7.95 through Pearson VUE. Official results from your state Board of Nursing typically arrive within 2-6 weeks.
What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?
The NLC allows nurses with a multistate license to practice in any compact state without obtaining additional licenses. Over 40 states are NLC members. Your primary state of residence must be a compact state to obtain a multistate license.
Can I take the NCLEX in a different state than where I want to be licensed?
Yes, you can take the NCLEX at any Pearson VUE testing center in any state. Your results will be reported to the state board where you applied for licensure, regardless of where you physically take the exam.
How many times can you take the NCLEX?
Most states allow unlimited NCLEX attempts with a 45-day waiting period between each attempt. However, some states limit the total number of attempts or require additional education after a certain number of failures.
What happens if my ATT expires?
If your Authorization to Test expires (typically after 60-90 days) before you take the exam, you'll need to re-register with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee again. Contact your state board to confirm your eligibility remains active.