A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Georgia
Exploring Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Georgia Georgia is not just famous for its peaches; it's also known for pecans, peanuts, Coca-Cola, and a diverse array of museums and parks like Forsyth Park with its picturesque fountain. The state also offers a quaint coastline perfect for a beach day. If you're a registered nurse or aspiring to become one, this guide provides essential information on licensing, education requirements, job prospects, salary expectations, leading hospitals, and nursing associations to assist you in securing your ideal position.
Contents include: - Obtaining a Georgia Nursing License - Licensing Costs - Steps for Renewing Your Nursing License - Continuing Education - Contact Details
Obtaining a Nursing License in Georgia
Step 1: Education To become a registered nurse in Georgia, choose from several educational paths such as: - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Accelerated BSN for those with a degree in another field.
Regardless of the path, a degree from an approved nursing program is mandatory for licensure. The Georgia Secretary of State lists approved programs, but transcripts from any U.S.-approved institution are acceptable.
Step 2: Application Before submitting your application for licensure by examination to the Georgia Board of Nursing, register with Pearson Vue for the NCLEX and with GAPS/Gemalto. After registration, download, fill, and notarize your application, and submit it by mail or online. Include the fee, official transcripts, proof of program completion, NCLEX registration, a Background Consent Form, GAPS/Gemalto registration, and other necessary documents. A document processing fee applies: $5 online or $10 by mail.
Step 3: Transcripts Send official college transcripts with your notarized application or have your school send them electronically. A transcript service is also an option.
Step 4: Fingerprinting Fingerprints are required for background checks via Gemalto Systems/Georgia Applicant Processing Services. Register on their site for locations and to proceed before submitting your application.
Step 5: NCLEX An accredited program prepares you for the NCLEX, indicating your competence in nursing care. Register on PearsonVue to take the test. If unsuccessful, reapply with a $40 fee plus a $10 processing fee. You may reapply anytime, but Pearson requires a 45-day waiting period. Pass the NCLEX within three years of graduation. Each attempt costs $200, with 75-145 questions in five hours. - Application fee: $75 + $10 processing fee - Multistate upgrade: $50 - APRN initial authorization fee: $75 + $10 processing fee
Licensing Fees Fees for new nurses or those relocating include: - Examination Fee: - NCLEX: $200 - Application: $40 + $10 processing fee - Endorsement Fee (current RN license holders): - Renewal: $65
Georgia is a compact state, allowing for multi-state licenses.
Renewal Steps for Your Georgia Nursing License
Step 1: Renewal Application Georgia RN licenses are valid for two years, expiring on January 31. Your license will indicate the expiration date.
Step 2: Continuing Competency To renew, meet one of Georgia's continuing education options within the renewal period, such as 30 hours from a Board-approved provider, certification by a recognized body, or an accredited study program. Submit evidence via CE Broker.
Step 3: Renewal Application Renew online through Georgia's licensing site. Renewal costs $65.
If Licensed in a Compact State If your primary residence is in another compact state, do not apply in Georgia unless declaring it your primary residence.
If Licensed in a Non-Compact State If you have a license from a non-compact state, apply for Georgia licensure by endorsement. Register with GAPS/Gemalto for background checks. Include in your application: - Active license copy - College transcripts - Background check - Background Consent Form - Any legal or disciplinary documents - Explanation letters - Citizenship affidavit - Immigration documents if needed
Continuing Education Requirements
RN/APRN Complete one of the following every two years: - 30 hours of continuing education - Certification maintenance - Accredited academic program
LPN Complete one of the following every two years: - 20 hours of continuing education - Accredited program in professional nursing
Contact Information for the Georgia Board of Nursing - Phone: (404) 424-9966 or (844) 753-7825, \"Option One\" - Fax: (877) 371-5712 - Email: nursing@dch.ga.gov
