Registered Nurses (RNs) are a component of Florida’s healthcare system, providing direct patient care in settings ranging from large hospitals to local clinics. They work with physicians and other healthcare professionals to assess patient needs, develop care plans, and support individuals through treatment and recovery. This guide provides a clear pathway through Florida’s licensing process for aspiring nurses.
Complete an Approved Nursing Education Program
In Florida, two primary degree paths prepare you for licensure: the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). An ADN program takes about two years to complete, offering a faster route into the nursing profession by focusing on core clinical skills. This option is often more affordable and allows for quicker entry into the workforce.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing requires four years of study and provides a more comprehensive education that includes advanced coursework in research, leadership, and community health. This broader academic foundation can open doors to more advanced career opportunities and leadership roles. Many employers express a preference for hiring nurses who have completed a BSN program.
Regardless of which degree you choose, the program must be approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, as graduating from a state-approved program is a requirement for obtaining an RN license. Prospective students should verify a program’s approval status on the Florida Board of Nursing’s official website. This step ensures your educational investment meets the state’s standards and will be recognized when you apply for your license.
Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
After graduating from an approved nursing program, every candidate must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This national exam is the standard used across the United States to ensure that each new nurse possesses the minimum level of knowledge and skill needed to practice safely and effectively.
The registration process for the NCLEX-RN is managed by Pearson VUE and is a separate action from your application to the Florida Board of Nursing. Candidates must register and pay the examination fee directly with Pearson VUE to schedule their test date. It is important to handle this step concurrently with your state licensure application to avoid delays.
The NCLEX-RN utilizes a format known as computer-adaptive testing (CAT). This technology adjusts the difficulty of questions based on the test-taker’s previous answers. The exam continues to present questions until it can determine whether the candidate’s ability is above or below the passing standard. The test ends once this determination is made, meaning the number of questions and the length of the exam can vary for each individual.
Apply for Licensure by Examination
For individuals who have completed their nursing education and have not been licensed in any other state, the path to a Florida license is “licensure by examination.” This process begins by submitting an application to the Florida Board of Nursing, which is completed through their online portal. This application requires detailed information about your educational background and personal history.
A part of this application involves undergoing a criminal background check for all applicants. Applicants must have their fingerprints electronically captured and processed through a Florida-approved LiveScan service provider. The results of this background screening are sent directly to the Board of Nursing for review as part of your application file.
In addition to the application form and background check, you must pay all required fees to the Board. Your nursing education program will also need to send official verification of your graduation directly to the Board. Once all components are received and you successfully complete the NCLEX-RN, the Florida Board of Nursing will issue your initial license, typically within 7 to 10 business days after receiving the passing result.
Apply for Licensure by Endorsement
Nurses who already hold an active RN license in another U.S. state or territory can become licensed in Florida through “licensure by endorsement.” This pathway is for established professionals who are relocating to practice in the state. A primary advantage of this method is that applicants are not required to retake the NCLEX-RN exam.
The endorsement application process starts with submitting the appropriate form and fees to the Florida Board of Nursing. Similar to new graduates, these applicants must also complete a criminal background check using an approved LiveScan vendor to meet Florida’s safety requirements.
Verification of your existing license is another component of the endorsement process. Most nurses will use the NURSYS system, a national database for license verification, to have their credentials sent to the Florida Board. This allows the board to confirm that the applicant’s license is active and in good standing. The application process for endorsement can take up to 30 days to complete.
Maintain Your Florida RN License
Once an RN license is issued in Florida, it must be maintained. The state requires all registered nurses to renew their licenses on a biennial basis, which means every two years. The renewal cycle is staggered based on the licensee’s original date of issue, and it is the nurse’s professional obligation to ensure their license remains active.
To be eligible for renewal, nurses must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) for each two-year renewal period. Within these hours, there are specific mandatory courses that must be completed. These state-mandated topics often include subjects such as human trafficking, domestic violence, and medical error prevention.
Completing these CE requirements ensures that nurses remain current with evolving standards of care, new medical knowledge, and important public safety issues. Nurses must attest to completing these hours when they submit their renewal application and are expected to keep records of their completed courses.