If you continue to work without an active status, you can face punishment. Likewise, nurses from other eNLC states can practice in Pennsylvania using their multistate licenses. No statutes or acts will be found at this website. The Missouri Board of Nursing explains the distinction between inactive and expired licenses. %PDF-1.3 % In this section, well demystify the restoration process, guiding you through each step toward restoring your nursing license. 663.1(b)), may reactivate the license by following the state guidelines and would not be eligible to hire into an LPN role until that time. 2022Pennsylvania Certification Board. In Pennsylvania, there are various types of nursing licenses available for aspiring healthcare professionals. The results will display key information, including the licensees name, license type, license status, and expiration date. Remember that youre not alone and it is not the end of the world. Step 4: Document Your CE Credits Keep accurate records of the CE credits you earn, including course titles, dates, providers, and certificates of completion. A licensed practical nurse whose license has lapsed for 5 years or longer or has been placed on inactive status for 5 years or longer, as permitted in section 13.1(b) of the act (63 P.S. PCB has established an Emeritus Status for certified professionals who are retired from the work force but wish to maintain a connection to PCB. Both versions serve the same purpose and have a similar structure, they do differ in content and scope. You must pass state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background checks. Current and former clients include The HOTH, Bisnode Sverige, Nutracelle, CLICK - The Coffee Lover's Protein Drink, InstaCuppa, Marketgoo, GoHarvey, Internet Brands, and more. Please direct comments or questions to. (c)A CRNP who places his prescriptive authority approval on inactive status for 3 years or longer or whose prescriptive authority approval is lapsed for 3 years or longer, may reactivate the prescriptive authority approval by meeting one of the following conditions: (1)Complete the requirement in 21.283(b)(1) (relating to authority and qualifications for prescribing, dispensing and ordering drugs) by taking at least 45 hours of course work in advanced pharmacology. Applicants will be notified by PCB of the approval or denial of Emeritus Status via email approximately 7-10 business days after the request is received. 0000002643 00000 n Inactive status provides flexibility for nurses who need to pause their practice temporarily. In Pennsylvania, RNs and LPNs must complete a designated number of CE credits within each renewal cycle. For LPNs, the fee is $35, and for RNs, the fee is $45. (If your license is INACTIVE or EXPIRED, you must submit a reactivation application by logging into your account at www.pals.pa.gov.) To regain active licensure and resume practice, these nurses must undertake the restoration process. Submit a written request for reactivation to PCB. Although each state has its renewal process, it is illegal to work without an active license in all states. The application may require details about your nursing education, employment history, and license status. Step 7: License Issuance Upon passing the NCLEX, the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing will issue your nursing license. Your employer could issue fines, probation, or even suspension from work. 211(k) and 218.1(c)). Inactive status refers to a nursing license that is not currently active, meaning the nurse cannot legally practice in Pennsylvania. 49 Pa. Code 21.332a. 2 0 obj startxref Nursing Schools Rankings and Reports for All 50 States, Are you considering a career in nursing? Nursing licenses, like many professional licenses, require regular renewal to remain active. 0000002395 00000 n Remember that licensure by endorsement requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. Send a written request to: Credentia Registry Team 3 Bala Plaza West Suite 400A Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 Registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs) in eNLC member states can hold a single multistate license, granting them the ability to practice in any eNLC state without obtaining additional licenses. School of Nursing University of Pittsburgh 3500 Victoria Street Victoria Building Pittsburgh, PA 15261. In most cases, you will be responsible for additional fines upon renewing your license. (ii)The scope of the prescriptive authority in the other jurisdiction is equivalent to prescriptive authority in this Commonwealth. Pennsylvania Licensing System. Step 4: Examine the Verification Results Upon submitting your search parameters, examine the verification results to identify the nursing license in question. Step 5: Await Approval The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing will review your application and supporting documents. 0000000998 00000 n Many nurses face NCLEX challenges on their first attempt, here are some tips if you do not pass on your first time. Step 6: Record Verification Results (If Applicable) Optionally, record the verification results for your records. The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), enhanced as the eNLC, is a groundbreaking agreement among participating U.S. states that facilitates nursing practice mobility. If you havent had a job during that time, you must complete a remedial course approved by the state board of nursing. Pennsylvania is the 37th jurisdiction to have enacted the NLC. The two versions of the NCLEX exam are NCLEX-RN the NCLEX-PN. By adhering to these steps, you can confidently verify the status of any nursing license, ensuring adherence to state regulations and professional standards. Many nurses would like to stay . What Is The NCLEX Exam, And How Do I Prepare For It? By doing so, they maintain their qualifications and contribute to positive patient outcomes. With diligent preparation, a strategic approach, and a positive mindset, you can conquer the exam and embark on a rewarding journey as a licensed nurse. In PA, nurses are considered mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect. However, there are circumstances in which a nurse may choose or need to place their license in inactive status. This section cited in 49 Pa. Code 21.332 (relating to requirement of continuing education). changes effective through 53 Pa.B. 0000003167 00000 n A nurse on retired status is required to renew the retired nurse license every two years and pay the retired nurse renewal fee at a reduced rate. Nurses can verify their licenses by completing the Nursys verification process for $30 per license type, per each board of nursing where the nurse is applying. The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing administers this biennial renewal process, ensuring that nurses uphold professional standards. BOX 2649 HARRISBURG, PA 17105-2649 PHONE: (717) 783-7142 . Please enable scripts and reload this page. If your license has been inactive for longer than five years, you have three options to prove competency and restore your licensure. The provisions of this 21.332a issued under sections 2.1(k) and 8.1(c) of The Professional Nursing Law (63 P.S. In this section, well walk you through the process of performing a nursing license lookup in Pennsylvania. Step 1: Review Reactivation Requirements Consult the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing to determine the specific requirements for reactivating your nursing license. No statutes or acts will be found at this website. For an inactive status of over five years, it's imperative to provide proof of competency. 16 NORTH STREET, EXETER, EX4 3QS TEL: 01392 255 838. If you are in a position to help nurses with your writing, and you'd like to find out more about contributing to our site, reach out using the contact us form. Why Choose Inactive Status? If so, this blog post is for you! To request that the Board electronically send a Verification of License with History to another state licensing agency, login with your User ID and Password and locate the "Professional License Details" section on your dashboard. After applying, you could start working in as little as 24 hours. Note: This mailbox is reserved for receipt of documentation specific to letters of good standing, exam information, disciplinary documents, transcripts and other education or employment verifications, and any other outside agency or related communications. You can check the status of your license online or by calling the state board of nursing. If you live in Iowa, you may submit the renewal request online and pay a $225 reactivation fee. Q: What it the Address, Phone Number and URL of the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing?A: The address, phone number and URL of the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing is:Address: 2601 North Third Street, P.O. The program you choose depends on the level of nursing licensure youre pursuing (LPN, ADN, or BSN). 717.540.4455 Each nursing license type requires completion of an accredited nursing program and passing the appropriate NCLEX exam. *%y3?zx EDI&Ebd$A~s)|9 _rkw{eIQEHB Step 4: Pay the Reactivation Fee Submit the applicable fee for license reactivation as outlined by the Board. To obtain the complete Nurse Aide registry which includes all active, inactive and annotated Nurse Aides' names and addresses, please do one of the following: Send an email requesting registry to paregistryrequest@credentia.com. No part of the information on this site may be reproduced forprofit or sold for profit. <>/Font<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI] >>/Annots[ 9 0 R 10 0 R 17 0 R] /MediaBox[ 0 0 612 792] /Contents 4 0 R/Group<>/Tabs/S/StructParents 0>> The retired nurse renewal fee is currently set at $15. Step 2: Apply for Pennsylvania nursing license. To Reactivate An Expired or Inactive RT License in PA: For a license that has been inactive/expired less than 4 years: Contact the Board office at 717-783-1400 or 717-787-2381 or via email at st-medicine@state.pa.us to request a reactivation application packet. The compact allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs) to have one multistate license, with the ability to practice in person or via telehealth, in both the primary state of residence and other NLC jurisdictions. Her goal is to help businesses understand and reach their target audience in new, creative ways. Your state government will allow the State Board of Nursing to apply a set of standards to obtain these credentials. The NCLEX assesses your nursing knowledge and skills. With a temporary your are allowed to practice nursing under supervision for a limited period. <>/Metadata 91 0 R/ViewerPreferences 92 0 R>> If you plan on stepping away from your career as a nurse, you have the option of moving your license into an inactive status. Apply online to start your new nursing career journey today! US Team: Agoura Hills, CA; Cumming, GA; Beverly Hills, CA; Marquette, MI; Lilburn, GA; Terre Haute, IN; Pittsburgh, PA; Loma Linda, CA; Carlsbad, CA, Worldwide Team: Salford, United Kingdom; Cairo, Egypt; Novovolynskiy, Ukraine; Ahmedabad, India; Alexandria, Egypt; Kushtia, Bangladesh; Kyiv, Ukraine; Toronto, Canada, Nurse AnesthetistNurse PractitionerNurse MidwifeNurse ResearcherClinical Nurse Specialist, CaliforniaTexasFloridaNew YorkPennsylvaniaIllinoisOhioGeorgiaNorth CarolinaMichigan, 2009 2023 RNCareers.org About|Contact|Experts|Data Sources| Sitemap|Privacy|Terms of Service|Advertising Disclosure| Cookie Policy |Do Not Sell My Information | Ranking Methodology, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner CRNP. With an active license, nurses can continue contributing to the healthcare community in Pennsylvania. Options for search parameters may include license number, name, or other identifiers. Verification of your original nursing license. Pass a criminal background check. Proudly founded in 1681 as a place of tolerance and freedom. You must also submit a full set of fingerprints if you're switching to active status. In Pennsylvania, the State Board of Nursing mandates specific CE requirements for registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) as a condition for license renewal. Staying informed and adhering to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursings guidelines are vital. Inactive status means the nurse is not currently authorized to practice nursing in Pennsylvania. Upon application for reactivation of prescriptive authority approval, the CRNP shall show proof of meeting the continuing education requirements for the biennial period immediately preceding the request for reactivation. <]>> (b)A CRNP who places his prescriptive authority approval on inactive status for less than 3 years is not required to meet the continuing education requirements in 21.332(b)(2) (relating to requirement of continuing education) during the period the prescriptive authority approval is on inactive status. At times, nurses in Pennsylvania may find their licenses inactive or lapsedoften a consequence of missed renewal deadlines or practice interruptions. Step 1: Visit the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) Access the Pennsylvania Department of States official online verification system, known as the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS). Q: What is the time frame for obtaining a Temporary License?A: The time frame for obtaining a Temporary License is approximately 3-4 weeks. Follow the instructions provided by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. The steps required to obtain or renew a nursing license vary by state. Florida Board of Nursing Home Administrators: How Do I Change the Status of My License to Inactive? According to news reports, many nurses are reaching retirement ageif not now, then in the next 15 years. This process allows licensed nurses to obtain Pennsylvania licensure without retaking the NCLEX exam. You will need to complete the renewal application and continuing education courses. Consider a mix of educational formats, such as online courses, in-person workshops, and conferences. This means that, not only will your profession suffer, but you could also face legal disciplinary action. Step 1: Verify Eligibility Before proceeding, ensure that you hold an active nursing license in good standing in another state or jurisdiction. Here is an approximate timeline for each nursing license type: As an aspiring nurse, youll face the NCLEX exama critical milestone on your path to licensure. Phone: (717) 783-7142. Certified professionals who are approved for Emeritus Status will receive a certificate(s) from PCB for all credentials held. 0000001158 00000 n If you let your license expire, you must pay late renewal fees to activate it. Status - Inactive, olorado's State of Emergency was rescinded on July 8, 2021, per 7/8 announcement. %%EOF CE plays a vital role in enhancing nurses knowledge and skills, promoting patient safety, and improving healthcare outcomes. Find "Duplicate License" or "Duplicate Wall Certificate" in the dropdown request selection with the license associated with the duplicate you wish to order. (i)The CRNP has practiced, for at least 1 of the last 3 years, as a CRNP with prescriptive authority in another jurisdiction. Step 2: Locate the License Verification Tool On the PALS homepage, find and select the license verification tool. Next, you must send a completed criminal history background waiver form, two completed fingerprint cards and proof of continuing education to the board. Do not let the nursing license expire. Official transcripts from your nursing education program. The PA nursing license renewal process for an inactive status is the same as a standard renewal, unless you have been out of the workforce for over five years. Q: What is the time frame for obtaining a Permanent License?A: The time frame for obtaining a Permanent License is approximately 6-8 weeks. Completion of48 hours ofPA Board approved or NAB approvedcontinuing education, which includes 2 hours of Child Abuse CE and 12 hours in subject areas of emergency preparedness and infection control,is required for renewal. You will receive a letter from PCB acknowledging the certification is on Inactive Status. Harrisburg, PA 17109, Phone: How Do I Apply For A Nursing License In Pennsylvania? PENNSYLVANIA STATE BOARD OF NURSING P.O. In this section, well explore the eNLC, its benefits, and its implications for Pennsylvania nurses, now that Pennsylvania has joined the eNLC. Q: Does Pennsylvania Offer Walk-Through Licenses?A: No, Pennsylvania does not offer walk-through licenses. You will need to complete the required continuing education and pay the necessary fees. It is illegal to practice nursing without this license. A nursing license might also be placed in an inactive status upon a nurse's retirement. Whether you receive this notification or not, it's critical to get your license renewed. In summary, continuing education is integral to nursing practice in Pennsylvania. Board-approved courses meet the standards for quality and relevance. How Long Does It Take To Get A Nursing License In Pennsylvania? Your first step will be to contact the Board of Nursing Office and provide them with your Pennsylvania license number. To renew an expired or inactive license, contact the state board of nursing and submit your request. You can only reactivate an active license; if it expires, you must follow extra procedures to restore an expired license, and these rules may be stricter. However, you may use your nurse title and provide volunteer services. In Pennsylvania, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), pass a background check, and pay certain fees. The steps to get out of a delinquent status involve paying a hefty renewal fee, completing a reactivation application, passing a background check, and possibly completing continuing education courses. The State Board of Nursing in PA will notify you biennially to renew your licensure. Step 5: Stay Informed of Changes Stay informed of any changes to CE requirements by regularly checking the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing website and subscribing to relevant newsletters or updates. In most cases, it's necessary to submit an application form, undergo a criminal background check and show proof of continuing education. It can be easy to allow. Have you been researching how to get your nursing license in Pennsylvania? In this section, well delve into the key considerations for maintaining your nursing license in Pennsylvania, equipping you with the knowledge to thrive in your nursing career. 0 Whether youre an aspiring LPN, ADN, or BSN, the licensure process involves a series of similar steps which are outlined below: Obtaining a nursing license in Pennsylvania involves several fees associated with education, examination, and licensure. The nurse's license verification is available immediately to the endorsing board of nursing. Retired status is intended to recognize a certified nurse's years of service caring for acutely and/or critically ill patients and to acknowledge their dedication to having been certified. I Let My Cosmetology License Expire: How to Get It Back, Missouri Board of Nursing: License Status Explanations, Washington State Department of Health: Frequently Asked Questions - Inactive and Retired Active Status, California Board of Registered Nursing: License/Certificate Renewal, Iowa Board of Nursing: Instructions for Reactivation of a License. Is the status "volunteer retired nurse" a special type of nursing license? Organized in 1981, it provides standards & examinations to certification and licensing boards in 24 countries, 47 states and territories, five Native American regions, and all branches of the U.S. military. If your license has been inactive for several years, you may be required to take a refresher course approved by the board. When seeking licensure, you are not part of an alternative program. xb```f``Zqxb 1q Credentials placed on Inactive Status are not eligible for reciprocity. Inactive or lapsed Pennsylvania Registered Nurse license seeking reinstatement or renewal. In her daily life, Ms. Picincu provides digital marketing consulting and copywriting services. In this section, well explore the CE requirements for nurses in Pennsylvania, discuss the importance of CE, and provide guidance on how to fulfill these requirements and stay informed. Inactive status is for certified professionals who expect to be inactive for a minimum of six months. It's beneficial to not default into inactive or delinquent statuses so that you can begin work immediately. The fee amount may vary based on individual circumstances. (a) A CRNP who places his certification on inactive status is not required to meet the continuing education requirements in section 8.1 (c) of the act (63 P.S. How Do I Maintain My Nursing License In Pennsylvania? 0000002677 00000 n Utilize official study materials, take practice tests, and review nursing concepts. Please note that there will be a brief blackout for new licenses in certain Boards/Commissions while we complete our system conversion. Retirement from clinical practice can take place for many reasons including illness or disability, career change or choice. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. The eNLC establishes uniform licensure requirements for multistate nursing licenses. The Postal Service does NOT forward licenses. We only work with the most respectful clients that offer competitive wages and flexible schedules. 0000000596 00000 n (2) Payment of the current biennial renewal fee as set forth in 20.3. H\U T?!#>V~x(YFly( OE)r%@ V5A1}F4ZkLj} @,D qs*3vl.sW 7&j%H_[=;m;qG~q@i.;,b|_)9Uqj|%sJ7[7gF>BJvj You can search by license number, name, or other identifying information. When ready to return to active practice, nurses can follow the steps outlined by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing to reactivate their licenses. Inactive status and reactivation. A lapsed (expired) license, on the other hand, can be renewed only after you pay a $50 penalty fee. Your license will stay active until its expiration date. If you plan to take time away from your nursing job but plan to come back to nursing someday, it would be best to maintain an active status. 218.1(c)) during the period the certification is on inactive status. By obtaining a multistate license, nurses can broaden their practice horizons and contribute to healthcare delivery across state lines. Nurses with a multistate license can provide care across state lines, whether in person or through telehealth, in all eNLC states. This step may be necessary for employers conducting background checks or for other official purposes. When you choose Cynamed, you get unmatched nursing support, resources, and training. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649Phone Number: (717) 783-7142URL: https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Nursing/. If the license type you are applying for is not available, please email ra-bpoa@pa.gov on or after February 24, 2018. Therefore, you must complete the continuing education course to identify and respond to signs of child abuse. 0000031770 00000 n A person is eligible for licensure by endorsement if they graduated from an approved professional nursing education program in the United States or Canada, or a professional nursing program deemed to be equivalent to the program of study required in Pennsylvania at the time the program was completed, and obtained licensure in another jurisdiction If the state where you have your license has an inactive status (not every state does) then you usually have to take a refresher course to reactivate your license. (a)A CRNP who places his certification on inactive status is not required to meet the continuing education requirements in section 8.1(c) of the act (63 P.S. Back to Topics 696 (January 28, 2023). This evaluation ensures your education aligns with Pennsylvanias nursing standards. Q: What is the Fee for Fingerprint Card (If Out-of-State)?A: The fee for Fingerprint Card (If Out-of-State) is $28.25. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649. BSN programs generally last for 4 years and delve deeper into advanced nursing concepts, leadership, and evidence-based practice. You will receive a letter from PCB acknowledging the certification is on Inactive Status. As a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), it is a state requirement to acquire and maintain proper licensure. Step 6: Receive Your Pennsylvania Nursing License Once the Board approves your application, youll receive your Pennsylvania nursing license. An active license will typically display a status such as Active or Current.. Pursuing a nursing career in Pennsylvania requires obtaining a nursing license, which allows you to practice within the state. Step 2: Navigate to the License Verification Page From the PALS homepage, navigate to the license verification page. How to Transfer an RN License Probation to Another State. Continuing to work without this requirement could land you in trouble at work, or even legal trouble. %PDF-1.7 Request "Inactive Status" in writing stating the specific reason (s) for the request. NCLEX examination fee: The fee for taking the NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) or the NCLEX-RN (for ADN and BSN graduates) is $200. A LPN retired nurse license will expire May 31 of each even-numbered year. LPNs typically complete a 12 to 18-month educational program focused on basic nursing skills. Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing application fee: The application fee for licensure varies based on the type of license. Failing to renew your license, even by an oversight, can lead you to practicing without benefit of licensure (BON). With licensure secured, you can launch your nursing career in Pennsylvania. Graduation from an approved nursing education program. State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators. Your original license must have been obtained through successful completion of the NCLEX exam or an equivalent examination. 4%*e>eE]z^ QyciI>)B8+VnQU`pC"8.G 58$n&b1G\l`o1+#+$l6 Experiencing a setback on the NCLEX exam can be disheartening. In this section, well navigate the renewal process, shedding light on essential steps and considerations. Working with an expired nursing license can result in hefty fines, probation or suspension. 0000001333 00000 n 0000001131 00000 n The permit is valid for a limited period, typically up to one year, and may be subject to renewal. Completion of 48 hours of PA Board approved or NAB approved continuing education, which includes 2 hours of Child Abuse CE and 12 hours in . The Board of Nursing's electronic database serves the primary source of licensure information for nurses in North Carolina. Similar conditions apply in Washington. Ss qiI[$m 4 "XBJv9@l(1~H&pV7XD3500@` r Inactive status and reactivation. In summary, the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) provides a streamlined and secure method for verifying nursing licenses in Pennsylvania. LPN candidates must take the NCLEX-PN exam, while ADN and BSN candidates must take the NCLEX-RN exam. Home; About Us. To continue working as a nurse, you must make sure to renew your license before the expiration date. Requirements may vary based on the duration of inactivity and individual circumstances. Verifying the status of a nursing license is a crucial step for employers, patients, and nurses themselves. For Pennsylvania nurses, joining the eNLC brings valuable opportunities: In conclusion, the eNLC offers Pennsylvania nurses the advantages of mobility, flexibility, and efficiency. Step 6: NCLEX Exam Day Arrive at the testing center equipped with necessary identification and a readiness to tackle the computer-adaptive test. HVF}WK@%KaYx0,lrKiSoaSuN:5|xe=[?P4~), '^2-|](@W|[3{g'B2V~e *YAY36wUoj$Y*x-txQc/JUPb $ZvCprR*^Dc,AV/80y9LB~k`*zbj`#%+/X=lk8V }=WF" This renewal process can be completed by visiting the State Board of Nursings website and applying online. Call the Board of Nursing Office. To become a nurse in Pennsylvania, you must meet the following requirements: Once you have fulfilled all these requirements, the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing will issue your nursing license, allowing you to practice nursing within the state. To contact the Board with general or application questions or assistance related to your license, application and/or for any technical support pertaining to the PA Licensing System known as PALS, please reference the link below. What are the Costs To Obtain A Nursing License In Pennsylvania? The Nursing Requirements State Board Information Resource provides answers about renewing licenses in all 50 states. While on retired status, you cannot practice for monetary compensation. The California Board of Registered Nursing, for example, requires 30 hours of continuing education. LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians and provide basic nursing care to patients. CynaMed will be happy to help match you with the perfect nursing position. Step 3: Licensure by Examination Application With verified credentials and language proficiency, you can apply for licensure by examination. Complete an accredited nursing education program (LPN, ADN, or BSN) approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Click here and submit your application. The next step is the application. The form to do so can be found at https://pr.mo.gov/nursing.asp under Licensure and then Form to Renew Expired Missouri License. [ 1] Much has been written on whether an individual . 3483 0 obj <> endobj You can request a verification/certification of license online at www.pals.pa.gov. Graduates of ADN programs are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. Submit an application for licensure to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. All Rights Reserved. This step may be necessary for official documentation, background checks, or compliance purposes. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) administers this standardized test that assess your ability to deliver safe and effective nursing care.Both registered nurse (RN) and a licensed practical nurse (LPN), need to pass the NCLEX to before they practice nursing.