A Guide to Kentucky Nursing Licenses and Renewals
Kentucky offers an affordable cost of living, excellent infrastructure, breathtaking natural beauty, and plentiful career opportunities. Nurses looking to advance their careers in this state should begin by applying for their registered nursing license.
This guide will address:
- Obtaining your Kentucky nursing license through examination - Achieving licensure by endorsement - Renewal process for your Kentucky nursing license - Associated licensing fees - Continuing education requirements - Contact details for the Kentucky Board of Nursing - Finding job opportunities in your area and getting answers to your nursing career queries
Let's begin by determining your current position:
- Staff nurse - Manager - Other
Obtaining your Kentucky nursing license via examination:
Step 1: Education
The Kentucky Board of Nursing suggests that students pursuing a nursing degree from an in-state program enroll in schools accredited by the board. Graduates from programs certified by other states are also recognized. Consider the following degrees to prepare for a registered nurse career:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing for individuals who already possess a bachelor’s degree and follow up with additional classes to qualify as a registered nurse.
Step 2: Apply
The journey to a Kentucky nursing license starts with filling out the state’s application while ensuring you meet all necessary requirements. The application can be submitted online, along with the fee. If requirements are not fulfilled within a year, reapplication will be needed. Candidates opting for a paper application can download the form, complete it, and send it via mail to the Kentucky Board of Nursing.
After completing the application, candidates must pass the Jurisprudence Exam with a minimum score of 80%. This open-book computerized test consists of 35 questions assessing knowledge of Kentucky nursing laws and is conducted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
To take the Jurisprudence Exam, applicants should submit their application and then access their application status link. Upon entering the necessary information, a link stating “Click here to take the Jurisprudence Exam” will appear, along with a Jurisprudence I.D. number needed for registration. Follow the linked steps to purchase and complete the course.
Additionally, you must apply for the NCLEX exam through the Pearson VUE website, either online or by phone.
After fulfilling all requirements, a provisional license will be issued, communicated via email. This provisional license allows the applicant to work under direct supervision.
Step 3: Submit Transcripts
Verification of your completion of an approved nursing program is required. If you graduated from a Kentucky nursing program, your school will notify the state of your graduation. Graduates from programs outside of Kentucky are required to submit an official transcript to the Kentucky Board of Nursing.
Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)
Candidates must complete both state and federal criminal background checks via IdentoGO. Register at the UEnroll website with the applicable service code. A fee applies for both reports.
Step 5: Take the NCLEX
After completing the application process, the Board will inform Pearson VUE, and you will receive Authorization to Test for the NCLEX-RN exam. This is a final evaluation of your nursing knowledge covering essential topics. If you do not pass, you will receive a performance report to help you prepare for a retake.
Licensing by endorsement (for those who already hold RN licensure):
If you are already licensed in another state and wish to be licensed in Kentucky, you need to apply for licensure by endorsement, completing the online application and paying the associated fee.
To renew your Kentucky nursing license, follow these steps:
Step 1: Renewal application timing
Registered nurses in Kentucky must renew their licenses annually during specified months.
Step 2: Compliance with continuing competency requirements
All nurses are required to complete mandatory continuing education in specific areas to keep their licenses active.
Step 3: Renew your application
You can renew your Kentucky registered nurse license online for a designated fee.
Licensing fees in Kentucky differ and apply whether you are new to the profession or transferring from another state. Continuing education requirements include a specified number of contact hours annually based on your role.
