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Applicant Frequently Asked Questions

Applicant General Questions

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1. How do I become a Registered Nurse (RN) in California?
For detailed information, please see the Careers in Nursing section of this Web site.

2. How can I inquire as to the status of my application?
It is highly recommended that you wait approximately four (4) to six (6) weeks after submitting your application before contacting the Board. Requests for application status before this time period will cause unnecessary delays in the processing of applications.

3. What is the Fingerprint Requirement?
All applicants are required to submit fingerprints. There are two (2) methods available for completing the fingerprint requirement:

  • Method 1 - Live Scan - For applicants residing in California you must use Live Scan to submit your fingerprints unless you obtain an exemption. To see a listing of the California Department of Justice (DOJ) applicant Live Scan agency locations, fees and hours of operation, see the Office of the Attorney General's Web site.
  • Method 2 - Fingerprint Card (Hard Card) - For applicants outside of California, you may use either Live Scan or a hard card. You may request a Live Scan form or a fingerprint card at https://app.dca.ca.gov/rn/requests.asp.

4. After submission of my application, how long does it take to receive my eligibility to take the examination?
Processing time depends on when the Board receives all required documents from schools, agencies, and other states. Prior convictions may delay the process. Usually, if the Board has received all information required for approval, you can expect to receive your eligibility letter within a period of four (4) to six (6) weeks.

5. What is the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)?
The NCLEX-RN examination is a Computerized Adaptive Test (CAT) designed to test knowledge, skills, and abilities essential to the safe and effective practice of nursing at the entry level. For detailed NCLEX-RN information please visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Web site.

6. How much does it cost to register for the NCLEX-RN examination?
The examination registration fee is $200. If you choose to schedule your NCLEX-RN examination at any of the international test centers, you will have to pay an additional international scheduling fee of $150 plus a Value Added Tax (VAT) where applicable. These fees will be charged when you schedule your examination appointment. For additional NCLEX-RN examination information please visit Pearson VUE's Web site.

7. I have registered to take the examination. When will I receive my Authorization to Test (ATT)?
After the Board determines that you are eligible to test, you will receive an Authorization to Test by mail/e-mail from Pearson VUE (the organization that provides test administration and services test development). You must have your ATT to schedule an appointment to take the NCLEX-RN examination. Additionally, at the testing center, you must present the ATT and acceptable identification to be admitted to the test.

8. Where can I take the NCLEX-RN examination?
The NCLEX-RN examination is administered at any Pearson Professional Center (PPC) located in the U.S.A. or its territories. Additionally, international testing centers are located in Australia, Canada, England, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Mexico, Philippines, and Taiwan. For specific testing center information please visit Pearson VUE's Web site .

9. How long does it take to receive my test results?
You should receive either your permanent RN license or notification that you did not pass the examination within two (2) to four (4) weeks after taking the examination.

10. I failed the examination. How do I assess my performance on the examination?
Candidates who fail the examination will receive a Candidate Performance Report (CPR). This report identifies the candidate's performance on the examination, provides the number of items administered to the candidate, and a summary of the candidate's relative strengths and weaknesses.

11. How do I reapply to take the NCLEX-RN examination?
To retake the NCLEX-RN Examination, you must submit to the Board a completed Request for Reapply/Repeat Examination form along with the reapplication fee of $75. When the Board issues a notice of failing result, the Request for Reapply/Repeat Examination form is provided to the candidate.

12. How can I check if my Interim Permit has been issued?
If you have submitted your request, your $30 fee, and have received your eligibility notice for the NCLEX-RN, you may access the Temporary Registered Nurse License - Interim Permit Verification page of this Web site to check if your Interim Permit has been issued. Your Interim Permit hardcopy will arrive by U.S. mail within two (2) weeks from the date of the eligibility letter, and is valid for six (6) months.

13. Does California require TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)?
The Board requires TOEFL only if an applicant attended a non-English speaking nursing school and is applying for an Interim Permit. For additional information please visit TOEFL's Web site.

14. I am licensed in another state. How can I become licensed in California?
Endorsement is the licensure method for registered nurses who hold a current and active license in another state in the US or Canada. The endorsement applicant must have passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), the State Board Test Pool Examination (SBTPE), or the five-part Canadian examination (prior to 1980). The Canadian Comprehensive Examination is not acceptable. For additional endorsement information please see the Licensure by Endorsement section of this Web site.

If you have not taken one of these three (3) examinations, you are not eligible for endorsement and must apply for Licensure by Examination.

15. I have taken the NCLEX, but my license has lapsed. What can I do to endorse into California?
In order to endorse, you must have a current and active license in another state, and meet all other licensure requirements. Contact your State Board and inquire as to the steps necessary to reactivate your license.

16. What is Nursys®?
Nursys® (Nurse System) is an online license verification program used to convey licensing and discipline information between state boards. Although the California Board of Registered Nursing is a non-participating board, information is obtained from Nursys® for those applicants endorsing into our state. For additional information and a list of participating states, please visit the Nursys® Web site.

17. How do I obtain the Nursys® License Verification Form?
The Nursys® registration form is included in the endorsement application packet. Additionally, you can visit the Nursys® Web site to obtain the form or to register online.

18. How do I apply for a Temporary License?
You may apply for a Temporary License at the same time you apply for licensure by endorsement or at any time prior to the issuance of a permanent registered nursing license. A Temporary License is valid for a period of six (6) months, allowing an applicant to work pending issuance of a permanent RN license. To qualify for a Temporary License, the applicant must submit:

  • Application - Completed Application for Licensure by Endorsement (which includes request for a Temporary License)
  • Applicable Fees - Check or money order in U.S. currency. Cash transactions require exact change.
  • Fingerprints - One completed Fingerprint Card (Hard Card) or second copy of the Live Scan Service Applicant Submission form (BCII 8016).
  • Verification of License - Proof of clear and active RN license from state of endorsement submitted via sealed envelope from State Board of Nursing or Nursys verification system. (Allow 7 working days for receipt)

The issuance of a Temporary License is normally completed within four to six weeks, but may be delayed if the application indicates a prior conviction(s). For information related to requesting a Temporary License, please visit the Licensure by Endorsement section of this Web site.

19. How can I check if my Temporary License has been issued?
You may access the Temporary Registered Nurse License - Interim Permit Verification page of this Web site to check if your Temporary License has been issued.

20. How long does it take before I receive my permanent RN license?
Processing times depend on when the Board receives all required documents from schools, agencies, other states, and countries. Prior convictions or disciplinary actions may delay the process. Delays may also occur with the fingerprint processing at the Department of Justice (DOJ) and /or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Fingerprint clearances must be obtained before a permanent license can be issued.

21. I need a Temporary License quickly. Can I obtain a Temporary License directly at the Board's office?
You may obtain a Temporary License in our office, as long as there are no prior convictions or previous disciplinary action against your license. You may hand-carry your application, fingerprint card, fees, and verification of license. (Verification of license must be in a sealed envelope.) For additional information please see Minimum Requirements for a Temporary License (TL) To Be Issued at Board Office .

22. Eight or more years have elapsed since the expiration date of my California RN license. What steps should I follow to renew my license?
If eight or more years have passed following the expiration date of a license and you have not been working as a registered nurse in another state, a licensee is required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). The NCLEX-RN is required to determine current clinical knowledge and fitness to resume the practice of registered nursing. For information on retaking the NCLEX-RN examination, please visit Reinstatement of a Lapsed RN License (8 Years or Longer).

If eight or more years have passed following the expiration date of a license and you have been working in another state, you do not have to re-take the NCLEX-RN. For information on how to renew your license, please visit Reinstatement of a Lapsed Registered Nurse License (8-Year Renewal).

23. What should I do if I have a name or address change?
To ensure receipt of important notices, please notify the Board within 30 days of any address change. Also, please notify the Board immediately of any change in name or e-mail. Please note that your name must match EXACTLY in ALL of the following areas:

  • Documents on file at the Board
  • Registration at Pearson VUE
  • Personal official identification
  • Authorization to Test

The Change of Address and/or Name for Applicants form may be sent via U.S. mail or faxed to the Board at 916-574-7697.

24. For a candidate with a disability, what is the process to receive reasonable accommodations for the examination?
A Request for Accommodation of Disabilities form must be submitted to the Board along with the application for licensure.

25. How do I obtain an Advanced Practice Certificate?

For Advanced Practice Certificate information, please click the corresponding title to access the information on the Board's Web site:

Applicant Prior Convictions and Disciplinary Actions Frequently Asked Questions

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1. What convictions or license discipline must be reported on the application?
All convictions must be reported, except for minor traffic violations. Both misdemeanor and felony convictions must be reported, and "driving under the influence" must be reported. Convictions must be reported even if they have been expunged under Penal Code Section 1203.4. Also, offenses must be reported even if the applicant has successfully completed a diversion program under the Penal or Article 5 of the Vehicle Code. All prior or current disciplinary action against a healthcare related license must be reported, whether it occurred in California or in another state or territory.

2. Can a person obtain a license as a registered nurse if they have a misdemeanor or felony conviction on their record?
The BRN reviews all prior convictions substantially related to the qualifications, functions or duties of a registered nurse. Each application is evaluated on a case by case basis. (Please refer to the Policy Statement on Denial of Licensure.) The BRN considers the nature, severity, and recency of the offense(s), as well as rehabilitation and other factors. The Board cannot make a determination for approval or denial of licensure without evaluating the entire application and supporting documentation.

3. Is there any specific conviction that will automatically disqualify an applicant from receiving a license?
No. There is not any one specific type of conviction that will disqualify an applicant. Again, the Board must review, on a case by case basis, all convictions and supporting documentation to determine if an application will be approved or denied.

4. Do I have to report charges if I completed a court diversion program and charges were dismissed?
Yes. Offenses must be reported to the Board even if a court diversion program has been completed. (Business and Professions Code section 492).

5. What type of documentation do I need to submit in support of my application if I have a prior conviction or license discipline?
In addition to the documents required for licensure, the BRN will require:

  • Certified official court document(s) and arrest report(s) relative to your conviction(s), showing the date(s) and circumstance(s) surrounding your arrest /conviction(s), sections of the law violated, and disposition of the case.
  • Copy of documents relative to any disciplinary action taken against any license as an RN or any healthcare related license or certificate, if applicable.
  • A detailed description of the circumstances surrounding your conviction(s) or disciplinary action and a thorough description of the rehabilitative changes in your lifestyle since the time of your conviction(s) or disciplinary action which would enable you to avoid future occurrences. It would be helpful to include factors in your life which you feel may have contributed to your conviction(s) or disciplinary action, what you have learned about yourself since that time, and the changes you have made that support your rehabilitation.
  • The burden of proof lies with the applicant to demonstrate evidence of rehabilitation. Examples of rehabilitation evidence include, but are not limited to:
    • If applicable to your conviction(s) or license discipline(s), documented evidence of professional treatment and counseling you may have completed. Please provide discharge summary, if available.
    • Letters of reference on official letterhead from employers, nursing instructors, health professionals, professional counselors, parole or probation officers, or other individuals in positions of authority who are knowledgeable about your rehabilitation efforts.
    • Proof of community work, schooling, and/or self-improvement efforts.
    • Court-issued certificate of rehabilitation or evidence of expungement, proof of compliance with criminal probation or parole, and orders of the court.

6. Can I receive an Interim Permit if my application is under review because of convictions?
No. If your application is referred to the Enforcement Program for review, you will not be allowed to receive an Interim Permit until the review has been completed, and a final decision has been made regarding your application.

7. How long will it take to review the information that I submit with my application?
The normal processing time is approximately 4 to 6 weeks. This assumes that all requested information for licensure and for the Enforcement Program has been received.

8. I am licensed in another state and want to receive my temporary license ASAP. Can I obtain a temporary license by coming to the Board's office if I have prior conviction(s) or out of state disciplinary action on my record?
No. Temporary licenses are not issued until all conviction, discipline, rehabilitation, and other evidence is fully evaluated.

9. How can I help facilitate how quickly my prior conviction or license discipline is reviewed?
The BRN strongly encourages all individuals with a conviction or discipline history to be fully prepared with information regarding their background, as specified in the policy statement on denial of licensure and the BRN application for licensure. Otherwise, your request for a license will experience a delay.

10. How do I appeal the denial of my application for licensure?
You have the right to appeal the license denial, and to have an administrative hearing, under the provisions of Section 485(b) of the Business and Professions Code. You must submit the appeal in writing to the Board office within 60 days from the service of the notice of denial. If you do not submit an appeal in writing to the Board, you will automatically waive your right to a hearing, and your application will be deemed denied.

Should you appeal, and the denial is upheld, the earliest date to reapply is one year from the date of service of the notice of denial.

11. What will happen if I choose not to appeal the application denial?
If you select not to appeal the application denial, you will be allowed to reapply for licensure one year from the date of the service of the notice of denial.