A Guide to Virginia Nursing Licenses and Renewals
Nursing Licensure and Renewal Insights
Whether starting your nursing journey or moving to Virginia, grasping the state's licensure and renewal processes is crucial.
This detailed overview covers:
- Obtaining a nursing license via examination - Licensing by endorsement - Renewing nursing credentials in Virginia - Associated fees - Continuing education mandates - Virginia Board of Nursing contact details
Embark on your nursing path or advance your career by addressing licensing essentials and seeking guidance.
### Steps to Acquire a Nursing License by Examination
**Step 1: Educational Requirements** Begin with a nursing degree from a recognized school. Options include:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Accelerated BSN for those transitioning into nursing from another field.
Education from outside Virginia is permissible.
**Step 2: Application Process** Post-degree, apply for Registered Nurse Licensure by Exam. This involves a fingerprint-based background check, reviewing laws, submitting an online application, and NCLEX registration on Pearson VUE. A minimum of 500 hours in direct patient care is required.
Licensure applications are only accepted online, with a $190 non-refundable fee.
Begin by visiting the Initial Applications page.
**Step 3: Transcripts Submission** Graduates from Virginia must have an Attestation letter sent to the Virginia Board of Nursing. Out-of-state students need to send an official transcript with clinical hours.
**Step 4: Background Check** A fingerprint-based Criminal Background Check is mandatory via Fieldprint VA before license issuance.
**Step 5: NCLEX Examination** Submit another application for the NCLEX-RN exam, typically after your initial application. The exam fee is $200, covering various nursing topics.
Virginia permits up to eight NCLEX attempts annually.
### Endorsement for Current RN License Holders
If you hold an RN license from another state, apply for Virginia licensure by endorsement:
- Review Virginia's nursing rules. - Complete a criminal background check. - Request electronic license verification from your previous state. - Provide a credential evaluation and proof of residence.
Virginia is an Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact participant, allowing practice across member states with a single license.
### Renewing Your Virginia Nursing License
**Step 1: Application for Renewal** Nurses renew every two years. A Renewal Notice is sent 60 days before expiration with an online renewal PIN.
**Step 2: Fulfill Continuing Education** Virginia's competency requirements can be met through workshops or academic courses. The Board provides a comprehensive list.
**Step 3: Submit Renewal** Log in or register with your renewal PIN.
### Licensing Fee Summary
Fees for nursing licensure in Virginia:
- Initial Application: RN: $190, LPN: $170, APRN: $125 - Renewal: RN: $140, LPN: $120, APRN: $80
### Continuing Education Guidelines
RNs and LPNs renew biennially, meeting specific education and competency criteria.
### Virginia Board of Nursing Contact
For more help, consult the Virginia Board of Nursing for detailed inquiries and assistance.
Utilize these insights to navigate your nursing career in Virginia effectively and enhance your professional path.
