How to get your RN license in Louisiana

Getting licensed in Louisiana at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Louisiana

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and pay the $100 application fee.
3. 3Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee.
4. 4Complete the required fingerprint-based criminal background check.
5. 5Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), then schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN.
6. 6Apply for a temporary/graduate-nurse permit if you need to work before the permanent license issues.
7. 7The Louisiana State Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

Start at the source: Louisiana State Board of Nursing. Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Louisiana? See licensure by endorsement instead.

Louisiana RN licensing FAQ

Does Louisiana require fingerprinting or a background check for a nursing license?

Yes. Louisiana requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. LSBN requires all initial RN-by-examination applicants to submit fingerprints (Livescan via an Identogo location) for a criminal background check processed through the Louisiana State Police and the FBI.

How much does the Louisiana RN license application cost?

The initial Louisiana RN license-by-examination application fee is $100. This is separate from the NCLEX-RN exam fee ($200 to Pearson VUE) and any fingerprint/background-check vendor fee. Confirm the current amount on the Louisiana State Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

Can I work in Louisiana before my RN license is issued?

Louisiana issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. LSBN issues a 90-day temporary graduate permit allowing an applicant to practice as an RN in Louisiana while the examination result and full licensure are pending, provided the exam is taken within 3 months of graduation. Confirm the exact conditions with the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.

How do I apply for my first RN license in Louisiana?

Graduate from an approved nursing program, register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, apply for licensure by examination through the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, complete the required background check, then pass the NCLEX-RN. The board issues your license once every requirement clears.

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