new york nursing license change of address

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Frequently Asked Questions for Registered Professional Nurse

1. what types of nursing professions are in new york state.

The 4 types of New York nursing professions are:

• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
• Registered Professional Nurses (RNs)
• Nurse Practitioners (NPs).  New York State certifies NPs in the following specialty areas: Acute Care; Adult Health; Family Health; Pediatrics; Women's Health; Psychiatry; Gerontology; Neonatology; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Oncology; Perinatology; School Health; College Health; Holistic Health; Community Health and Palliative care.
• Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs)  New York State certifies CNSs in the following specialty areas: Adult Health; Pediatrics; Psychiatric/Mental Health; and Oncology.

Note: In New York, midwifery is not considered a nursing profession. Midwifery is a separately licensed profession.

2. What fees are charged for New York nursing licenses, certifications and registrations?

New York Law requires the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to charge the following fees:

• If you are applying for an LPN license - you must pay a $143 fee to NYSED. This fee covers your license and your initial LPN registration.
• If you are also applying for a limited permit - you must pay an additional $35 fee to NYSED.
• If you are renewing your LPN registration - you must pay a $73 fee to NYSED.
• If you are applying for an RN license - you must pay a $143 fee to NYSED. This fee covers your license and your initial RN registration.
• If you are renewing your RN registration - you must pay a $73 fee to NYSED.
• If you are applying for a CNS certificate only - you must pay an $80 fee to NYSED. This fee covers your CNS certificate and your initial CNS registration.
• If you are applying for an RN license and a CNS certificate - you must pay a $223 fee to NYSED.
• If you are renewing your CNS and RN registrations, you must pay to NYSED $30 for each CNS certificate that you hold and an additional $73 fee for your RN registration.
• If you are applying for an NP certificate only - you must pay an $85 fee to NYSED. This fee covers your NP certificate and your initial NP registration.
• If you are applying for an RN license and an NP certificate - you must pay a $228 fee to NYSED.
• If you are renewing your NP and RN registrations - you must pay to NYSED $35 for each NP certificate that you hold and an additional $73 fee for your RN registration.

3. I am licensed in another state as a nurse. Does New York State participate in the Nursing Licensure Compact?

No. New York State is not a Nursing Licensure Compact State. Please reference this instructional checklist if you hold a registered nurse license in another U.S. state or territory and have graduated from a nursing school in the U.S.

4. What should I do if my name or address changes while I am applying for a license or certificate or after I am licensed or certified?

You are legally required to notify the New York State Education Department (NYSED) of your name and/or address change within 30 days. More information on how to notify NYSED of your name or address  change.

5. Must I disclose criminal convictions or prior misconduct when I apply for a New York State nursing license?

When you apply for a nursing license or to renew your nursing registration, you will be required to answer the following questions:

• Have you been found guilty after trial, or pleaded guilty, no contest or nolo contendere to a crime (felony or misdemeanor) in any court?
• Are criminal charges pending against you in any court?
• Has any licensing or disciplinary authority refused to issue you a license or ever revoked, annulled, cancelled, accepted surrender of, suspended, placed on probation, refused to renew a professional license or certificate held by you now or previously, or ever fined, censured, reprimanded, or otherwise disciplined you?
• Are charges pending against you in any jurisdiction for any sort of professional misconduct? Has any hospital or licensed facility restricted or terminated your professional training, employment or privileges or have you ever voluntarily or involuntarily resigned or withdrawn from such association to avoid imposition of such measures?

You must report all criminal convictions and disciplinary actions against you, regardless of whether it occurred in New York State or elsewhere. You do not have to disclose "youthful offender" offenses, if your records have been sealed.

6. Will a prior criminal conviction prevent me from obtaining a license or registration to practice nursing in New York?

Not necessarily. As part of the review of your license or registration application, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) will review your background including your prior conviction(s). NYSED decides on a case by case basis whether your prior criminal conviction(s) will disqualify you from being licensed as a nurse in New York. Note: Courts often notify NYSED when nurses are convicted of a crime.

7. Do I have to be a US citizen in order to qualify for a nursing license in New York State?

No. US citizens and other persons lawfully in the US may qualify for a nursing license.

8. Do I need a social security number in order to qualify for a nursing license in New York State?

No. You are not required to have a social security number. However, if you have a social security number, you must disclose it on your nursing license application and on your nursing registration renewal applications.

9. How can I verify whether a nursing school or a nursing education program is "approved" by New York State?

In New York State, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) is responsible for "approving" (registering) nursing education programs. A list of NYSED registered nursing education programs is available at www.nysed.gov/heds/IRPSL1.html . All out-of-state and online nursing education programs must be registered or approved by NYSED in order to place students in clinical rotations in New York State (except in federal U.S. Armed forces or Veteran's Administration facilities).

RN & LPN

10. what are the requirements for becoming a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in new york.

To be licensed and registered as an LPN in New York State, you must:

• be of good moral character;
• be at least seventeen years old;
• be a high school graduate (or the equivalent);
• be a graduate of a nursing education program acceptable to the New York State Education Department (NYSED);
• complete New York State required infection control coursework;
• pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) or another license examination acceptable to NYSED; and,
• apply for an LPN license with NYSED.

To learn about LPN licensure requirements, click here .

11. I was a student in an RN education program but did not graduate. Am I eligible to take NCLEX-PN to become licensed as an LPN?

No, you must be a graduate of a nursing education program acceptable to the New York State Education Department to be eligible to take the NCLEX-PN to become licensed as an LPN.

12. What are the requirements for becoming a Registered Professional Nurse (RN) in New York?

To be licensed and registered as an RN in New York State, you must:

• be at least eighteen years old;
• be a graduate of a nursing education program acceptable to NYSED;
• complete New York State required infection control coursework and child abuse reporting coursework;
• pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) or other license examination acceptable to NYSED; and,
• apply for an RN license with NYSED.

To learn about RN licensure requirements, click here .

13. Am I required to be licensed and registered as an LPN or RN by the New York State Education Department (NYSED)?

You must be licensed and registered as an LPN or RN by NYSED to practice nursing.

14. Is there a difference between being licensed and being registered as a nurse in New York State?

Yes. After you apply for and qualify for an LPN or RN license, NYSED will send you a nursing license parchment and a registration certificate . Your nursing license is valid for life unless it is surrendered, revoked, annulled or suspended by the New York State Board of Regents. Your registration certificate will authorize you to practice as a nurse for up to three years. You must renew your registration every three years to continue to practice nursing. You are not legally allowed to practice nursing while your registration is expired.

15. I am licensed by New York State to practice nursing. I want to apply online to renew my nursing registration, but I do not have my Personal Identification Number (PIN). How do I find out what my PIN number is?

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) sends PINs to nurses at the address it has on file. If you did not receive a PIN from NYSED, you may need to update your address (see question 4). To request a PIN, contact us . Your request must include the following information:

• Your full name
• Your profession (i.e., registered professional nurse, licensed practical nurse, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse practitioner)
• The last 4 digits of your social security number
• Your date of birth.

NYSED responds to PIN requests within two weeks. If your email request includes all required information, NYSED will reply with your PIN and a link where you can renew your registration online. TIP: When you renew your registration online, enter only your 6-digit nursing license number, including any zeros at the beginning of your license number. Do not include letters, dashes, or numbers after slashes when entering your license number. In addition, keep in mind when you register that your PIN is case-sensitive.

16. How do I satisfy the infection control coursework requirements for an LPN or RN license?

If you are applying for an LPN or RN license, you must complete New York State Education Department (NYSED) approved infection control coursework or qualify for an exemption. Thereafter, you must complete NYSED approved infection control coursework every four years or qualify for an exemption.

• Graduates of NYSED registered LPN or RN education programs.  If you recently graduated from an LPN or RN education program that is registered with NYSED as qualifying for LPN or RN licenses, you have already completed the infection control coursework requirement as part of your nursing studies. You do not have to take additional infection control coursework to qualify for a nursing license. However, after obtaining a New York LPN or RN license, you must take infection control coursework every four years or qualify for an exemption.
• Graduates of NYSED registered LPN or RN education programs.  If you did not graduate from a NYSED registered LPN or RN education program, you must complete NYSED approved infection control course within 90 days of the date that you are licensed as an LPN or RN in New York, or qualify for an exemption. For more information about taking an approved infection control course and a list of approved course providers, click here . After obtaining a New York LPN or RN license, you must take infection control coursework every four years, or qualify for an exemption.
• Exemptions.  You may qualify for an exemption from the infection control coursework requirement if you can demonstrate to the satisfaction of NYSED that: (1) you have taken infection control training that is equivalent to the infection control coursework required by NYSED; or (2) taking infection control coursework is not necessary due to the nature of your nursing practice. You can request this exemption when you apply for your nursing license. Thereafter, you must take NYSED infection control training, or apply and qualify for an exemption, every four years.

17. How do I satisfy the child abuse reporting course requirements needed for an RN license?

Before the New York State Education Department (NYSED) can issue you an RN license or limited permit, you must complete child abuse reporting coursework approved by NYSED or qualify for an exemption.

• If you graduated after September 1, 1990 from a nursing education program that is registered with NYSED as RN license qualifying, you already completed the child abuse reporting coursework requirement as part of your RN studies. You do not have to take additional child abuse reporting coursework to qualify for an RN license or limited permit.
• If you did not graduate from a New York State RN education program after September 1, 1990 and you do not qualify for an exemption, you must complete child abuse reporting coursework offered by a course provider approved by NYSED. For more information and a list of NYSED approved course providers, click here .
• You may qualify for an exemption from the child abuse reporting coursework requirement if you can demonstrate to NYSED that, during your nursing practice, you will not have contact with persons under the age of 18 or residents of nursing homes or residential care schools. You can request this exemption when you apply for your RN license.

NOTE: The child abuse reporting course requirement DOES NOT apply to LPNs.

18. What test must I pass to qualify for an LPN license in New York?

Most LPN license applicants must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Vocational or Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). The NCLEX-PN is designed to test knowledge and skills essential for safe and effective entry level LPN practice. In very rare circumstances, an applicant may qualify for a license by passing the State Board Test Pool Examination (SBTPE) or other LPN license examination accepted by another state or US territory.

19. What test must I pass to qualify for an RN license in New York?

Most applicants for an RN license must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). The NCLEX-RN is designed to test knowledge and skills essential for safe and effective entry level RN practice. In very rare circumstances, an applicant may qualify for a license by passing the State Board Test Pool Examination (SBTPE) or other RN license examination accepted by another state or US territory.

20. How do I sign up to take the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN?

Pearson VUE is a not-for-profit company that offers the NCLEX–PN and the NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN are administered at Pearson Professional Centers (PPC) located throughout the US and in US territories. Additionally, international testing centers are located in other countries, including Australia, Canada, England and Mexico. You must register directly with Pearson VUE to take the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN. You can register online at www.vue.com/nclex or by calling Pearson VUE at 1-866-496-2539. You must pay to Pearson VUE an examination registration fee of $200. If you schedule your NCLEX at an international test center, you may have to pay additional fees.

21. I have already registered to take the NCLEX with Pearson VUE. When will I receive my Authorization to Test (ATT)?

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) must review your RN or LPN license application to determine whether you are eligible to take the NCLEX. If NYSED determines that you are eligible to take the NCLEX, NYSED will inform Pearson VUE directly. Pearson VUE will then issue an ATT to you by mail or email. The ATT will include an ATT number. You must have an ATT number to schedule an appointment to take the NCLEX. Additionally, you must present the ATT and acceptable identification at the test center in order to be admitted to take the NCLEX.

22. Can the New York State Education Department issue me an ATT or an ATT number or tell me when Pearson VUE will issue me an ATT or ATT number?

No. The ATT or ATT number must be obtained directly from Pearson VUE.

23. Can a candidate with a disability obtain a reasonable accommodation when taking the NCLEX?

The candidate must complete the " Request for Reasonable Accommodations for Testing " form and submit it to the New York State Education Department (NYSED) at the address noted on the form. NYSED must approve or disapprove the request for a reasonable accommodation(s) before a candidate can sign up to take the NCLEX.

24. I failed the NCLEX. What do I need to do to retake it?

You must register again with Pearson VUE and pay a $200 fee to retake the NCLEX. For more information, visit: www.pearsonvue.com/nclex or call 1-866-496-2539. You DO NOT need to file another RN or LPN licensure application or pay additional fees to the New York State Education Department to retake the NCLEX.

25. Can a nursing school graduate provide nursing services before being licensed and registered to practice as an LPN or RN in New York?

In some limited cases, yes.

• Limited Permits. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) issues limited permits to nursing school graduates who apply for an LPN or RN license and a limited permit, who have met all criteria for the license except for taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The limited permit allows the new graduate nurse to practice under the direct supervision of an RN at the health care facility noted on the limited permit. The supervising RN must be on the patient care unit at all times when a new graduate provides care. The limited permit expires one year from the date of issue, or ten days after the limited permit holder is notified that she or he failed the NCLEX, whichever happens sooner. An expired limited permit does not legally authorize you to practice nursing.   Note: If you graduated from a nursing school that was taught in a language other than English, you may have to pass a test to demonstrate that you are English Language proficient before NYSED will issue you a limited permit.
• New Graduate Practice. If you graduate from a nursing program registered by NYSED as qualifying for licensure as an LPN or RN, and you apply for an LPN or RN license and limited permit with NYSED, you may practice nursing under the direct supervision of an RN during the 90 day period immediately following graduation. The new graduate must practice under the direct supervision of an RN at the health care facility noted on the limited permit application form. The supervising RN must be on the patient care unit at all times when a new graduate provides care.

26. What is the correct title for nursing school graduates who hold a limited permit issued by the New York State Education Department?

The correct title for an LPN license applicant who holds a limited permit is Graduate Practical Nurse (GPN). The correct title for an RN license applicant who holds a limited permit is Graduate Nurse (GN). These titles must be displayed on identification badges and must also be used when signing official patientcare documents.

Internationally Educated

27. i recently graduated with a bn/bscn/bsn degree from a canadian university. what are the steps for applying for licensure as an rn in new york state.

There are 5 methods for applying for licensure as an RN in New York State. If you were granted the BN, BSN, or BScN degree after January 1, 2015 from a university in a Canadian province (except Quebec), you may apply for licensure as a recent Canadian graduate (using RN method #4). If you don’t qualify, you may apply for licensure as an internationally educated applicant (using RN method #5). For instructions for applying for licensure as an RN in New York State, click here .

28. I didn't go to college in the United States. I graduated from a nursing school in another country. What are the steps for applying for licensure as an RN in New York State?

There are 5 methods for applying for licensure as an RN in New York State. If you graduated from a nursing school in another country, you can apply for licensure as an internationally educated applicant (using RN method #5). For instructions for applying for licensure as an RN in New York State, click here .

29. I went to nursing school in another country and want to be an RN in New York State. When will I be allowed to take the NCLEX-RN?

Before you will be allowed to take the NCLEX-RN, the following sequence of events must happen:

• apply for licensure as an RN with the New York State Education Department (NYSED);
• either have CGFNS verify your nursing education credentials or use Forms 2F and 3F for that purpose; and,
• register to take the NCLEX-RN with Pearson Vue.
• NYSED must review your RN license application, including your education credentials. If NYSED determines that you are eligible, NYSED will inform Pearson VUE that you are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN.
• Pearson VUE must issue an "Authorization to Test" or "ATT" to you. The ATT will include an ATT number. You must have an ATT number in order schedule an appointment with Pearson VUE to take the NCLEX-RN. Additionally, you must present the ATT and an acceptable form of identification at the test center to take the NCLEX-RN.

30. I was educated and licensed as a physician outside the United States. Can I qualify for a New York State RN or LPN license using my physician credentials?

Last Updated: August 15, 2019

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New York Board of Nursing | Board of Nursing New York (NY) Information | Registered Nurse RN

The New York Board of Nursing deals with licensures, nursing practice information, and more. To renew your license, or find out more about New York’s nursing board, visit the New York Board of Nursing website below.

It is very important to maintain the contact information for the board of nursing in your state, so you can make sure to stay up-to-date with all of the state rules and regulations regarding licensing renewals, continuing education, and so forth.

Nursing professionals should contact the New York board of nursing if there is any problems with license renewals, or if there is a change in personal information (such as address or name change).

The New York board of nursing website, phone number, address, and other contact information is below:

New York (NY) Board of Nursing Contact Information

• New York Board of Nursing NY State Education Department Office of the Professions Division of Professional Licensing Services Nurse Unit 89 Washington Avenue Albany, New York 12234-1000 Phone: 518-474-3817, ext. 280 Fax: 518-474-3398

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Update My Address

Recently moved learn how to update your address with the dmv., you must set up a mydmv account if you do not have one already, you will need your:.

• Driver license, permit, or non-driver ID card
• Date of birth
• Social security number
• ZIP code currently on file with DMV
• New address

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Why do I need to update my address with DMV?

New York State law requires that you to report a change of residence address on a driver license, permit, non-driver ID, or registration to the DMV within 10 days.

Changing your address with the DMV:

• Updates your DMV records
• Ensures you receive mail related to your registrations and driving privileges
• Does not require you to order new DMV documents displaying your new address

*An address change with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) does not update your address on DMV records. You must report your address change to both the DMV and the USPS. Change your address with the USPS .

Before you update your address online, you must first sign up for a MyDMV account. You will need your:

• NYS driver license, permit, or non-driver ID card
• Social Security number

Refer to this step by step process to update your address:

• Create a MyDMV account . If you already have an account, skip to step 2.
• Sign in to MyDMV.
• Under “DMV Services,” click “Change My Address.”
• Enter the required information.
• Click the “Enter and Verify” button.
• Keep the confirmation email for your records.

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Career Advice > Continuing Education > Credentialing and Licensing > New York Nursing License Renewal: 3 Steps

New York Nursing License Renewal: 3 Steps

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As a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse in New York, you probably know that if you can make it here — in a state of more than 19 million people — you’ll make it anywhere. Healthcare practitioners and healthcare support workers are two of the top 10 occupations with the largest employment numbers in the Big Apple. But in order to be legally allowed to practice without interruption as an RN or LPN, you have to go through the New York nursing license renewal process.

Unsure where to start? Not a problem. We’ll describe the three steps to renew a nursing license — NY makes the process easy. Read on to learn exactly how to fulfill the New York nursing license renewal requirements .

New York Nursing Facts

If you have additional questions regarding NY nursing license renewal or if you need a New York board of nursing application, try the contact information below for help.

Is New York part of the nursing licensure compact (NLC)?

How much do nurses in New York earn?

• The average CNA salary in New York is $46,020 per year.
• The average LPN salary in New York is $63,020 per year.
• The average RN salary in New York is $106,620 per year.

How can I contact the New York Board of Nursing?

Customer service: 518-474-3817, press 1 then ext. 570

Registration unit: 518-474-3817, press 1 then ext. 410

Website: https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions-index/nursing

New York Board of Nursing Address

NY State Education Department Office of the Professions 89 Washington Avenue Albany, New York 12234-1000

3 Steps to Renew a NY Nursing License

If you’re an RN or LPN in New York, follow the steps below. If you’re an out-of-state nurse, you can pursue licensure by endorsement or examination .

Step 1: Determine Your Renewal Deadline

In New York, an LPN license and an RN license are valid for three years. You can’t renew your license if there are more than five months left in your registration period or if your last valid registration period ended fewer than four months prior.

Four months before your license is set to expire, a registration renewal document and PIN will be sent to you in the mail . You will need this PIN to renew a nursing license. NY nurses who misplace their PIN can retrieve it online .

If you’re a CNA in New York , you have to renew your certification every 24 months.

Step 2: Complete Continuing Education Requirements

The second key part of your New York nursing license renewal are the CEU requirements . Every four years, RNs and LPNs must complete state-approved infection control coursework or qualify for an exemption.

CNAs must have received payment for eight consecutive hours of work as a nursing assistant within the previous 24 months in order to be eligible to renew their certification.

Need a good resource for continuing education? IntelyEdu is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and has a variety of courses .

Step 3: File Your New York Nursing License Renewal

Now it’s time to fill out your NY nursing license renewal form online. Have your registration renewal document with your PIN handy, as you’ll need the PIN to sign in to the system.

Once you sign in, select the license you are renewing. You have the option to change your registration address at this time. Then answer the questions that are in the application. You’ll then need to pay a renewal fee , which is $73 for RNs and LPNs. For tech help, email [email protected] or call 518-474-3817 ext. 410 on business days between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. ET.

After receiving your information, the New York State Education Department will contact you if it requires any additional information. Generally, it takes up to three days to process a renewal application. Your new registration will be mailed to you at the address on file. You can access the New York nursing license verification system online to look up the status of your renewal.

CNAs must fill out the New York Nursing Assistant Registry Renewal Form and include a money order for $40. Mail both to:

Prometric Attn: NY Nurse Aide Registry Recertification 7941 Corporate Drive Nottingham, MD 21236

Once your nursing license or certification are in good standing, if you want a fresh start, start searching for nurse practitioner jobs, RN jobs , LPN jobs , and CNA jobs in New York.

Great Areas in New York for Nursing Jobs

You can narrow your search to the areas of the state with large populations, including:

• New York City

Find Top New York Nursing Jobs

Completing the New York nursing license renewal process is quick and easy. But could you use some help finding a top place to work? Take a look at all nursing jobs in New York on IntelyCare right now, and find one that matches your needs.

Latest Jobs

Registered nurse – sign-on at clinity talent, rn clinic (per diem/cody) at billings clinic, rn operating room circulator at billings clinic, clinic rn (0.9 fte) – internal medicine – bozeman at billings clinic, inpatient day transplant rn; registered nurse at yale new haven health, related articles, s.t.a.b.l.e. certification: overview and faq, enpc certification: overview and faq, crrn certification: overview and faq, cbspd certification: overview and faq, what is acls certification overview and faq, related jobs.

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License Requirements for Registered Professional Nursing

General requirements.

You must be licensed and registered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) as a registered professional nurse (RN) to practice nursing as an RN or refer to yourself as an “RN”, “registered nurse” or “registered professional nurse” in New York State.

Licensure and Registration

To be licensed and registered as an RN in New York State, you must:

• be of good moral character;  
• be at least eighteen years of age;
• graduate from a nursing education program acceptable to NYSED;
• complete New York State required infection control coursework and child abuse reporting coursework;
• pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) or another license examination acceptable to NYSED; and,
• apply for an RN license with NYSED. 

After you qualify for a license as an RN, NYSED will issue you a license parchment and a registration certificate .

• Your license is valid for life, unless it is surrendered, revoked, annulled, or suspended by the New York State Board of Regents.
• Your RN registration certificate will authorize you to practice as an RN for 3 years in New York State. The second registration after licensure is shortened to move your re-registration period to align with your month of birth. The registration renewal fee will be prorated for that period. You must renew your registration every 3 years to continue to practice as an RN in New York State. You are not legally allowed to practice as an RN while your registration is expired

Laws that govern RN licensure are included in Education Law Article 139 and 8 NYCRR Part 64 .

You should also read the general licensing information applicable for all professions.

The fee for licensure and first registration is $143.

The fee for a limited permit is $35.

Fees are subject to change. The fee due is the one in law when your application is received. You will be billed for the difference if fees have been increased.

• Do not send cash.
• If you apply for licensure electronically using the online Application for Licensure, you will be required to pay by credit card.
• Other payments must be made by personal check or money order payable to the New York State Education Department. Your cancelled check is your receipt.
• Mail any required forms and fees to the indicated address on the form.

NOTE: Payment submitted from outside the United States should be made by credit card, check or draft on a United States bank and in United States currency; payments submitted in any other form will not be accepted and will be returned.

Partial Refunds

Individuals who withdraw their licensure application may be entitled to a partial refund.

• For the procedure to withdraw your application, contact the Nurse Unit by e-mailing [email protected] or by calling 518-474-3817 ext. 280 or by faxing 518-474-3398.
• The State Education Department is not responsible for any fees paid to an outside testing or credentials verification agency.

If you withdraw your application, obtain a refund, and then decide to seek New York State licensure at a later date, you will be considered a new applicant, and you will be required to pay the licensure and registration fees and meet the licensure requirements in place at the time you reapply.

Moral Character Requirements

You must demonstrate that you are currently of good moral character in order to be licensed or registered as an RN.  When you apply for a license or to renew your registration, you will be required to answer the following questions:

• Have you been found guilty after trial, or pleaded guilty, no contest or nolo contendere to a crime (felony or misdemeanor) in any court?
• Are criminal charges pending against you in any court? Has any licensing or disciplinary authority refused to issue you a license or ever revoked, annulled, cancelled, accepted surrender of, suspended, placed on probation, refused to renew a professional license or certificate held by you now or previously, or ever fined, censured, reprimanded or otherwise disciplined you?
• Are charges pending against you in any jurisdiction for any sort of professional misconduct?
• Has any hospital, licensed facility or clinical laboratory restricted or terminated your professional training, employment or privileges or have you ever voluntarily or involuntarily resigned or withdrawn from such association to avoid imposition of such measures?

A “yes” answer to one or more of these questions will not necessarily disqualify you from a license or a registration in New York State. The New York State Education Department decides on a case by case basis whether prior criminal conviction(s) or other issues will disqualify the applicant from being licensed or registered as an RN in New York State. 

Education Requirements

FRAUD ALERT :  Don't make the costly mistake of attending a “nursing school” in New York that will not qualify you to be licensed as an RN!!  Before you enroll in or pay for a nursing education program in New York State , VERIFY that it is a nursing education program registered by the New York State Education Department as licensure qualifying for RN. A list of these registered nursing education programs is on our website .

To meet the education requirements for licensure as an RN, you must graduate from an nursing education program acceptable to the New York State Education Department (NYSED). In addition, you must complete NYSED approved child abuse reporting and New York State required infection control coursework or qualify for an exemption from the coursework requirements.     

Education Programs

You must graduate from a nursing education program that meets one of the three criteria below.

• A nursing education program (associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degree or Diploma program) registered by NYSED as license qualifying for RN; or,
• A nursing education program located in another state or U.S. Territory, if approved by the licensing authority of the state or U.S. Territory as preparation for practice as an RN. (US territories include: Puerto Rico, Guam, US Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa); or,
• A general nursing education program located in a country outside of the United States or its territories, which is acceptable to NYSED.

Child Abuse Reporting Coursework

Before NYSED will issue you a limited permit or license, you must complete NYSED approved child abuse reporting coursework or qualify for an exemption.

• If you graduated from a nursing education program registered by NYSED as licensure qualifying for RN after September 1, 1990, you have already completed the child abuse reporting coursework requirement as part of your studies.
• If you did not graduate from a nursing education program registered by NYSED as licensure qualifying for RN after September 1, 1990 and you do not qualify for an exemption, you must take an NYSED approved child abuse reporting course. These courses are available online. For more information and a list of approved course providers .
• You may qualify for an exemption from New York’s child abuse reporting coursework requirement if you can demonstrate that, during your nursing practice, you will not have contact with persons under the age of 18 or residents of nursing homes or residential care schools. You can request this exemption when you apply for your license.

Infection Control Coursework

All practicing RNs must complete NYSED approved infection control coursework every four (4) years or qualify for an exemption. When you apply for a license, you will be required to show that you completed NYSED approved infection control coursework or qualify for an exemption.

• If you graduated from a nursing education program registered by NYSED as licensure qualifying for RN within the past four years, you already completed the required infection control coursework as part of your nursing studies. You do not have to take additional infection control coursework when you apply for a license.
• If you did not graduate from a nursing education program registered by NYSED as licensure qualifying for RN within the past four years, you must take an NYSED approved infection control course -or- qualify for an exemption from these coursework requirements. NYSED approved infection control courses are available in person and online. For more information and a list of approved course providers .
• You may qualify for an exemption from New York’s infection control coursework requirement if you can show NYSED that: (1) you took infection control training that is equivalent to NYSED required infection control coursework or, (2) taking infection control coursework is not necessary due to the nature of your nursing practice. You can request this exemption when you apply for your license.

Examination Requirements

In most cases, to meet the examination requirements for licensure as a RN, you must pass the National Council Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The NCLEX-RN was developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and administered by Pearson VUE. The NCLEX-RN is designed to test knowledge and skills essential for safe and effective entry level RN practice. If you were licensed as an RN in another state, U.S. Territory or Canada and passed the State Board Test Pool Examination (SBTPE) or the Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), you have already met the examination requirement for licensure as an RN. In all other cases, you must take and pass the NCLEX-RN.

Pearson VUE is a company that offers the NCLEX-RN throughout the U.S., in U.S. territories and in some other countries. Before you will be allowed to take the NCLEX-RN, you must:

• Apply for licensure as an RN and pay the $143 fee to NYSED.
• Register directly with Pearson VUE to take the NCLEX-RN at www.pearsonvue.com/nclex/ or by calling Pearson VUE at 1-866-496-2539.

Note: If you have a disability and are seeking a reasonable accommodation to take the NCLEX-RN, you must complete and submit a Request  for Reasonable Testing Accommodations  Form to NYSED. You can also request copy of the form by calling 518-474-3817 ext. 320 or by faxing 518-473-8222. NYSED will inform you in writing whether your request has been approved. You will not be allowed to take the NCLEX-RN until your request has been processed by NYSED. Please note in your Application for Licensure (Form 1) that you are requesting reasonable accommodation(s).

NYS Licensure Requirements for Applicants Licensed in Another U.S. State or Territory

An instructional checklist is available for registered nurse applicants licensed in another U.S. state or territory that have graduated from a nursing school in the U.S.

Limited Permits

If you have ever taken the NCLEX-RN, you are not eligible for a limited permit.

NYSED issues limited permits to nursing school graduates who have:

• applied to NYSED for a licensure as an RN and limited permit; and
• have met all requirements for licensure as an RN in New York State except for taking the National Council License Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

A limited permit holder (called a "Graduate Nurse" or "GN") can temporarilly practice nursing under RN supervision at the health care facility noted on the limited permit. The GN must be employed by the health care facility and the supervising RN must be on the care unit with the GN when the GN provides care.

A limited permit is valid for up to 1 year or until 10 days after the GN is notified that they failed the NCLEX-RN, whichever happens first. A GN who fails the NCLEX-RN must cease practicing nursing when the limited permit expires. A GN who changes employers will have to obtain a new limited permit from NYSED to practice nursing for the new employer.

New Graduate Practice

If you graduated from a nursing education program registered by NYSED as licensure qualifying for RN and you applied for licensure and a limited permit for RN, you may be legally allowed to practice nursing for 90 days immediately following graduation . To find out if you graduated from a qualifying New York nursing school, visit here . During the 90 day period, you must practice nursing as a GN while employed at the health care facility identified on your limited permit application and you must be personally supervised by an RN. The supervising RN must be on the patient care unit with you while you practice nursing.

Instructions for Applying for Licensure as a RN

NOTE: Read all instructions carefully! You must ensure that all required application forms, information and documentation are complete and are sent to the New York State Education Department (NYSED). You are responsible for asking organizations to send written verification of your education or other credentials directly to NYSED.

Choose a Pathway for applying for licensure as a RN in New York State:

• RN Pathway #1  For graduates of New York State approved nursing schools (and never licensed as a RN).
• RN Pathway #2  For graduates of nursing schools in another state or a U.S. territory (and never licensed as an RN).
• RN Pathway #3  For RNs who have been licensed in another state or U.S territory (and who graduated from nursing school in the U.S.).
• RN Pathway #4  For RN applicants with recent Canadian BSN, BN or NScN Degrees.
• RN Pathway #5  For graduates of foreign nursing schools (outside the U.S. and U.S. territories).

Your Complete Guide: How to Transfer an RN License to Another State

Introduction

Finally, you have taken and passed the NCLEX-RN Exam . . . way to go! The next step now involves becoming licensed as a RN and it will probably seem like it takes forever. Licensure is the process that each state board of nursing goes through in order to grant each individual who has been determined to exhibit competency to perform care within the RN scope of practice. Each state has their own board of nursing and criteria that will determine whether or not each applicant has the necessary skills to practice safe and effective care to become licensed as a RN. But what happens when you want to move to another, how do you transfer an RN license? This guide will take you through all the steps.

To Transfer an RN license to from state to state, may not be as complicated as you may think. Thanks to the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC allows nurses to have one license that is valid in multiple states…up to 25 states and counting. Through the NLC, nurses have the ability to practice across participating state lines both physically and electronically through a simple process without any additional fees or applications. Nurses will have the ability to practice in both their home state and other states that participate in the NLC. You are eligible to obtain a multistate license if you:

• Are a legal resident of a state included in the NLC.
• Hold an active RN license that is in good standing.
• Meet licensure requirements in your home state, in addition to licensure standards, and exhibit competency to practice within the RN scope if you reside in a remote state that does not participate in the NLC.

Keep in mind the different characteristics of the states in which you practice. There is a party state (any state that participates in the NLC), a home state (the nurse’s primary state of residence), and a remote state (any party state other than the home state). Following are examples if you were to decide to reside in another state and practice as a RN.

See a list of State Boards of Nursing (BON) with state fees and continuing education requirements and a list of nursing compact states .

Current NLC States and Status

Map as of 1-12-21. For the latest NLC map or to contact your legislator see: https://www.ncsbn.org/nurse-licensure-compact.htm

How to Transfer an RN License from Non-Compact to Compact State

• You must apply for licensure by endorsement in the new state of residency.
• Your individual state license issued by the non-compact state will not be affected and remain active if you continue to maintain it, meaning you will have to resume your continuing education hours, practice within the laws of that state, and renew it by the deadline.

How to Transfer an RN License from Compact to Non-Compact State

• Your compact license will be changed to a single-state license valid only in the state you have chosen.
• You must notify the board of nursing in the state you moved out of so they can take actions to inactivate your license from their board.

How to Transfer an RN License from Compact to Compact

• You can practice on the former residency license for up to 30 or 90 days depending upon the new state to which you have moved.
• You will be required to apply for licensure endorsement at least 1 to 2 months in advance of a move, pay any applicable fees, and complete a declaration of primary state of residency in the new home state.
• You will be issued a new multistate license and your former license will be inactivated.
• You must notify the board of nursing in the former residency state that you have moved.
• Proof of residency may be required.

Here is a scenario to kind of put it all together for you: Nicole holds an active RN license in her primary state of Colorado. However, she lives near the four corners, (Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado), and all those states participate in the NLC. Therefore, Nicole can drive across the borders to practice or practice electronically without any additional fees or applications. Later though, Nicole decides to move and change her primary residence to New Mexico. She will now have a 30-day grace period to practice on her current license, but by the end of those 30 days, Nicole will need to have obtained her new multi-state license. Ultimately, this is why it is a good idea to apply for new licenses in advance of any move so there is not a lapse in your ability to practice.

Steps to Transfer RN an License

If you have to transfer your RN license it will occur via a process referred to as endorsement. Of course, the endorsement process is only able to be carried out once you have passed the NCLEX-RN  and hold an active license in good standing with your particular state board of nursing. The process includes:

• Choosing the state in which you would like to endorse your license with to access their board of nursing and rules to fill out an application for endorsement.
• Visiting the “Nursys” licensure verification site to obtain online verification for endorsement to practice in another state.
• The board of nursing in the state to which you are applying for endorsement will then have to accept your application, perform new background checks and ensure all your information is correct.
• Payment of predetermined fees for your RN endorsement in the state you have chosen.
• Within 1 or 2 months you will be notified whether or not your information has been approved to hold a license in your chosen state.

The whole process to transfer an RN license may seem complicated, however with the technology we have today and since we are able to do much of the process electronically. It’s not as complicated as it could be. Ultimately, obtaining a nursing license is a strict process, because let’s face it…we don’t want just anyone to be able to take the lives of others into their hands unless they are highly qualified to provide safe and effective care. Find all the information you need to make your process simple at https://www.ncsbn.org/licensure.htm .

Best Ranked Nursing Schools by State

One of the best measures of a nursing program’s ability to prepare its students to become a nurse is to look at an institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates. We went directly to each state board of nursing to find, report and rank the best nursing schools in each state. Find a great nursing school that offers ADN, BSN, MSN, NP, DNP degree programs in the state you plan to move to. We rank schools and offer information about tuition costs, average loan rates, and additional data points that will help you find the best RN program for your career.

The length of RN to BSN degree programs vary per student and student background. Request information from individuals schools and find out from these sponsored programs.

• How to Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
• Privacy Policy
• RN Salary Guide for ADN and BSN Nurses
• Best RN to BSN Programs for 2024
• How to Pay for Nursing School
• LPN Salary Guide - What Can You Expect to Earn

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