A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in California
**Navigating Nursing Licenses and Renewal in California**
California stands out as an excellent place for nurses to both reside and practice, offering top-notch public health services and superior healthcare quality. It boasts the highest employment of registered nurses and the most lucrative average salaries for them.
In this piece, we'll explore:
- How to obtain your California nursing license via examination - Acquiring a license through endorsement - The renewal process for your California nursing license - Licensing costs - Continuing education prerequisites - Contact details for the California Board of Nursing
Discover local job opportunities and receive guidance on all your nursing career questions.
**Let's start this journey together.** What’s your current job title? - Staff nurse - Manager - Other
**Securing Your California Nursing License Through Examination**
**Step 1: Educational Requirements** The California Board of Nursing assesses both two-year and four-year nursing programs statewide. Graduates from these programs, and those from accredited out-of-state institutions, qualify for licensure by examination. - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Accelerated BSN for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree seeking RN qualifications.
**Step 2: Application Process** The Board encourages using the online application system for licensure, though paper applications are available. To apply online, create a BreEZe account. After signing up, log in, select "RN Initial Exam Application," and begin a new application. Pay $300 if you graduated from a California program or $350 for out-of-state graduates, and upload necessary documents. For paper applications, mail them with the fee to:
Board of Registered Nursing P.O. Box 944210 Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
Register for the NCLEX-RN exam through Pearson VUE once the Board deems you eligible.
**Step 3: Transcripts Submission** California nursing program graduates have their transcripts electronically sent to the Board. Out-of-state graduates need to have their school electronically send transcripts via a certified service like Parchment or directly from the institution.
**Step 4: Completing a Criminal Background Check** All applicants must submit fingerprints using Live Scan or an Applicant Fingerprint Card. Live Scan is recommended for quicker processing. For Live Scan, fill out the Request for Live Scan Service form at a California site and pay the fee. Results are sent within 1-2 weeks. Alternatively, request a fingerprint card, complete it, and have your fingerprints taken at a local agency. Return the card in a 9”x12” envelope with a $49 fee to the Board. Mark "DO NOT FOLD" and mail it to:
Board of Registered Nursing P.O. Box 944210 Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
Fingerprint card processing may take 1-2 months.
**Step 5: Taking the NCLEX** The NCLEX-RN assesses readiness for nursing duties. After processing your licensure application, Pearson VUE will email an Authorization to Test. The NCLEX covers: - Safe and Effective Care Environment - Management of Care - Safety and Infection Control - Health Promotion and Maintenance - Psychosocial Integrity - Physiological Integrity - Basic Care and Comfort - Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies - Physiological Adaptation
Passing updates your BreEZe account status. If unsuccessful, retake the exam after 45 days, up to eight times annually. You must pass within three years of graduation.
**Discover local job opportunities and receive guidance on all your nursing career questions.** **Let's start this journey together.** What’s your current job title? - Staff nurse - Manager - Other
**Transferring Nursing Licenses from Other States to California** For licensed RNs moving to California, apply for licensure by endorsement via BreEZe Online. Register for a BreEZe account, select "RN Endorsement," complete the application, and submit the $350 fee. Upload necessary documents. Required documents include a fingerprint set via Live Scan or an Applicant Fingerprint Card. Live Scan is preferred for faster results. Complete the Request for Live Scan Service form at a California site, pay the fee, and receive two copies. Results arrive in 1-2 weeks. Alternatively, complete a fingerprint card and take it to a local agency for processing. Submit it with a $49 fee to the Board. Clearly mark "DO NOT FOLD" on the envelope and send it to:
Board of Registered Nursing P.O. Box 944210 Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
Provide license verification. If your state uses NURSYS, utilize that system. Alternatively, fill out the Verification of Licensure form and send it to your state board before forwarding it to:
Board of Registered Nursing P.O. Box 944210 Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
Once completed, apply online for a temporary license while awaiting your permanent one.
**Renewing Your California Nursing License**
**Step 1: Timing Your Renewal** Your initial California RN license lasts two years, expiring on the last day of the month following your second birthday post-licensure. Subsequent renewals follow this pattern. Renewal notices arrive three months before expiration. Renewals aren't permitted more than three months in advance.
**Step 2: Continuing Education Requirements** During the initial two years, newly licensed nurses aren't required to pursue continuing education. Starting January 1, 2023, newly licensed RNs must complete a one-hour implicit bias course from an approved provider. Afterward, 30 contact hours of continuing education are needed for renewal.
**Step 3: Submitting Your Renewal Application** Renew online via BreEZe Online services for a $190 fee.
**California Nursing Licensing Costs** Costs for becoming a nurse in California, whether new or relocating, are outlined below. More information is on the Board of Registered Nursing's website. - **Licensing fees by examination (first-time applicants)** - NCLEX fee: $200 - Application fee: $300 - Temporary permit (optional): $100 - Fingerprint processing fee: $49
- **Licensing fees through endorsement (for current RN licensure)** - Application fee: $350 (RN); $500 (APRN) - Temporary permit: $100 - Fingerprint processing fee: $49 - License verification: $100
- **License renewal fees** - Application fee: $190 (RN); $150 (APRN) *Fees are subject to change.*
Military personnel or their spouses seeking a nursing license may have applications expedited. California might waive renewal fees, continuing education requirements, and other costs for deployed military personnel, benefiting nursing professionals in the state. Upcoming California legislation aims to make California a nursing compact state, allowing multi-state licenses. Stay informed with NCSBN updates.
**Continuing Education Requirements** 30 contact hours are needed every two years. From January 1, 2023, those within two years of licensure must complete a one-hour implicit bias course from an approved provider. This applies to LPNs, RNs, and APRNs.
**Contacting the California Board of Nursing** - Phone: (916) 322-3350 - Website: www.rn.ca.gov - Mailing address: Board of Registered Nursing P.O. Box 944210 Sacramento, CA 94244-2100 - Physical address: 1747 N. Market Blvd Suite 150 Sacramento, CA 95834-1924
