The Florida Board Nursing Application form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to become licensed nurses in Florida. This form collects essential information needed to evaluate your eligibility for nursing licensure, including details about your education and background. If you're ready to start your nursing career, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
The Florida Board Nursing Application form serves as a crucial gateway for individuals aspiring to become licensed nurses in the state. It encompasses several key sections that guide applicants through the licensure process. For those who have served in the military or are spouses of military personnel, the form includes specific questions that may qualify them for certain benefits. The application also highlights Florida's participation in the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows registered and licensed practical nurses to practice across state lines, provided they adhere to the regulations of the state in which they are working. Eligibility criteria are clearly outlined, detailing the types of nursing education programs that qualify for licensure by examination. This includes graduates from Florida-approved programs, accredited institutions, and military nursing programs, among others. Furthermore, the form emphasizes the importance of registering with Pearson VUE, the testing service responsible for administering the NCLEX, and outlines the necessary steps to ensure a smooth application process. Applicants must be aware of the identification requirements and the implications of not following through with their scheduled examinations. Additionally, the form provides information on fees, personal information requirements, and the option for email notifications regarding application status, all of which are essential for a successful licensure journey.
ARMED
FORC ES
L I C E N S I N G
Are you an active duty member of the United States Armed Services?
Are you a veteran of the United States Armed Services?
Are you the spouse of a veteran of the United States Armed Services? Are you the spouse of an active member of the United States Armed Services?
If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, you may qualify for a reduction in
Health’s commitment to serving members and veterans of the United States Armed
Forces and their families online at
Nurse Licensure Compact State Information
Florida is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC allows a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse licensed in a Compact State to practice across state lines in another Compact State without having to obtain a license in the other state unless the nurse moves and declares the new Compact State as their new primary state of residence. It is important to understand that the NLC requires nurses to adhere to the nursing practice laws and rules of the state in which they practice under their Compact license. The Compact does not include Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. If a nurse moves from one state to another and establishes residency, the nurse must apply for licensure in that state. Visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website https://www.ncsbn.org/nurse-licensure-compact.htm for a list of states that have implemented the Compact.
Who is Eligible to Apply for Licensure by Examination?
Graduates from:
Florida approved nursing education programs as defined in section (s.) 464.003, Florida Statutes (F.S.).
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited nursing programs that have been issued a National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) code by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
Nursing education programs that have been approved or recognized by the jurisdiction in which it is based and that has been issued an NCLEX code by NCSBN.
Military nursing programs* that have been issued an NCLEX code by NCSBN.
Generic Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or higher programs that have been issued an NCLEX code by NCSBN.
A non-NCSBN jurisdiction or international education program that the Board of Nursing determines is equivalent to an approved program.
Practical Nurse examination based on practical nurse equivalency (PNEQ)- Applicants who have successfully completed courses equivalent to practical nursing education in a registered nursing program (See Nursing Education History, Section 7 in the application for more information).
Canadian Registered Nurses who took the Canadian Nurse Association Testing Service (CNATS) Examination after August 8, 1995 must take the NCLEX unless licensed in another U.S. state or territory. If test scores are in an acceptable range approved by the Board of Nursing, Canadian Registered Nurse applicants who took the CNATS prior to August 8, 1995 may be eligible for endorsement. Unless licensed in another U.S. state or territory, or have taken the NCLEX, Canadian Licensed Practical Nurses are required to apply by examination.
*Other military health related programs (not issued an NCLEX code by NCSBN) are not equivalent to professional nursing programs in Florida. Programs completed to qualify as a hospital corpsman, technician, physician or a physician’s assistant are not classified as registered or practical nursing programs and are not equivalent.
Important Information: In addition to applying for licensure with the board, all applicants must register with Pearson VUE and pay the fee. All fees paid to Pearson VUE are nonrefundable. You may view the NCLEX Candidate Bulletin and register with Pearson VUE online at www.vue.com/nclex or by telephone at
1-866-496-2539. Failure to register for the examination with Pearson VUE will delay the approval of your Authorization to Test (ATT). Applicants should register with Pearson VUE prior to approval by the board, except for applicants educated outside the United States, who should wait for board approval.
DH‐MQA 1094, Revised 6/2020, Rule 64B9‐3.002, F.A.C.
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Pearson VUE
Applicants who register with Pearson VUE after they have been made eligible must contact the board office to report their registration. This notification is necessary to ensure approval is sent to Pearson VUE.
Changing your address may cause you to be turned away from your examination. To avoid delays, you should notify the board office of any address changes in writing as soon as possible. Address changes can be emailed to [email protected].
Any applicant who does not take their scheduled examination within 90 days of the Authorization to Test (ATT) being issued must re-register with Pearson VUE and notify the board office. The board is not able to grant extensions.
The name and address listed on your application and provided to Pearson VUE must match the identification that you intend to provide on the day of your examination.
When you arrive at the test center, you will be required to present your ATT Letter and Acceptable Identification.
If you arrive without these materials, or the materials do not match, you will be turned away and will be required to re-register and repay Pearson VUE’s examination fee of $200.00
Several security measures will be enforced during the administration of the examination. Strict candidate identification requirements have been established by NCSBN. Find out more at https://www.ncsbn.org/1213.htm. Only the identification listed below will be accepted:
U.S. Driver License
Provincial/Territorial or State Identification Card
Passport (The only identification acceptable for testing centers outside the U.S.)
U.S. Military Identification
Permanent Residence Card
All identification, including temporary identification*, must:
Be valid
Include a photograph
Not expired
Contain your name in Roman characters
Include a signature
Be government-issued
* Examples of temporary identification include limited term IDs and any ID reading “temp” or “temporary.”
Graduate Nurse Status
An applicant approved for Graduate Nurse (GN) Status may practice nursing before passing the NCLEX. Applicants with GN status must practice nursing under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. Direct supervision is defined as the physical presence within the patient care unit of a registered nurse who assumes legal responsibility for the nursing practice of graduate nurses.
GN Status is only valid within three months of graduation. To qualify for GN status you must apply to the Florida Board of Nursing and be approved. Applicants who graduated three months or more prior to submitting their application will not be eligible for GN status. Applicants who do not pass the first examination lose their GN status and are no longer eligible for employment in that capacity. Employers will require you to present your eligibility letter from the board and your ATT from Pearson VUE.
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Nursing Licensure by
Examination Application
Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 6330
Tallahassee, FL 32314-6330
Fax: 850-617-6460
Email: [email protected]
Do Not Write in this Space For Revenue Receipting Only
Per s. 464.008(3), F.S., any applicant who has failed a licensing examination three consecutive times, regardless of jurisdiction in which the examination was taken, shall be required to complete a board approved remedial course. https://floridasnursing.gov/education-and-training-programs/florida-board-of-nursing-approved-remedial-courses/
Select application type:
Total fee of $110.00 includes the following:
Registered Nurse (RN) 1701- $110.00
Processing Fee
$50.00
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 1702- $110.00
Initial Licensure Fee
Student Loan Forgiveness Fund
$5.00
Unlicensed Activity Fee
Fees must be paid in the form of a cashier’s check or money order, made payable to the Department of Health. An applicant who is denied licensure or withdraws their application is entitled to a $60.00 (Initial Licensure Fee, Student Loan Forgiveness Fund, and Unlicensed Activity Fee) refund. Fees are refundable for up to three years from the date of receipt.
1. PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name: ______________________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: _______________
Last/Surname
First
Middle
MM/DD/YYYY
Mailing Address: (The address where mail and your license should be sent)
_____________________________________________________ ________ _______________________________
Street/P.O. BoxApt. No. City
_____________________________ _________ _____________________ ________________________________
State
ZIP
Country
Home/Cell Telephone (Input without dashes)
Physical Location: (Required if mailing address is a P.O. Box- This address will be posted on the Department of Health’s website.)
_____________________________________________________ _________ ______________________________
StreetApt. No. City
________________________________ _________ ___________________ _______________________________
Work/Cell Telephone (Input without dashes)
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY DATA:
We are required to ask that you furnish the following information as part of your voluntary compliance with 41 CFR Part 60-3-Uniform Guidelines on Employee Selection Procedure (1978); 43 FR 38295 and 38296 (August 25, 1978). This information is gathered for statistical an d reporting purposes only and does not in any way affect your candidacy for licensure.
Gender:
Male
Race:
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
Hispanic or Latino
White
Female
American Indian or Alaska Native
Black or African American
Asian
Two or More Races
Email Notification: To be notified of the status of your application by email check the “Yes” box and fill in your email address on the line provided. If you choose to be notified via email you will be responsible for checking your email regularly and updating your email address with the board office.
Yes
No
Email Address: ____________________________________________________
Under Florida law, email addresses are public records. If you do not want your email address released in response to a public records request, do not provide an email address or send electronic mail to our office. Instead contact the office by phone or in writing.
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2. SOCIAL SECURITY DISCLOSURE
This information is exempt from public records disclosure.
Pursuant to Title 42 United States Code § 666(a)(13), the department is required and authorized to collect Social Security Numbers relating to applications for professional licensure. Additionally, s. 456.013(1)(a), F.S., authorizes the collection of Social Security numbers as part of the general licensing provisions.
Last Name: _____________________________________________________________
First Name: _____________________________________________________________
Middle Name: ___________________________________________________________
Social Security Number: __________________________________________________
(Input without dashes)
Social Security Information- * Under the Federal Privacy Act, disclosure of Social Security numbers is voluntary unless specifically required by federal statute. In this instance, Social Security numbers are mandatory pursuant to Title 42 United States Code, § 653 and 654; and s. 456.013(1), 409.2577, and 409.2598, F.S. Social Security numbers are used to allow efficient screening of applicants and licensees by a Title IV-D child support agency to ensure compliance with child support obligations. Social Security numbers must also be recorded on all professional and occupational license applications and will be used for license identification pursuant to Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Welfare Reform Act. 104 Pub. L. Section 317). Clarification of the SSA process may be reviewed at www.ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
4052 Bald Cypress Way Bin C‐02
Tallahassee, FL 32399‐3252
You may apply for licensure before obtaining a Social Security number. However, you will not be issued a license until proof of a U.S. Social Security number is received.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
3.SPECIAL TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS
Applicants must have a qualifying medical condition in order to receive special accommodations. Applicants requiring special accommodations should verify that the accommodations are available prior to scheduling their examination.
Do you require special testing accommodations?
Applicants who require special accommodations should be aware that the process to have accommodations approved is quite lengthy, usually taking a minimum of 60 days. To apply for special accommodations, download the information booklet at http://www.floridasnursing.gov/special-testing-accommodations or contact the Special Testing Coordinator at (850) 245-4252. Accomodation requests must be sent to:
Department of Health, Division of Medical Quality Assurance
Bureau of Operations, Attention: Special Testing Coordinator
4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C‐90
Tallahassee, FL 32399‐3260
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Name: _____________________________________________
4.NURSE LICENSURE COMPACT (NLC)
Requirements that must be met in order to qualify for a multistate license from Florida:
Florida must be the Primary State of Residence*
Florida’s requirements for initial licensure must be met
License status must be clear and unencumbered **
Must not have a felony conviction***, regardless of adjudication
Must not be enrolled with the Intervention Project for Nurses (IPN) or any other treatment program for impaired practitioners
Must have a U.S. Social Security number
Terminology:
*Primary state of residence is defined by the Compact as the “person’s declared fixed permanent and principal home for legal purposes; domicile."
**Encumbrance means “revocation or suspension of, or any limitation on, the full and unrestricted practice of nursing, imposed by a licensing board.”
***Felony conviction is defined as being “convicted or found guilty, or has entered into an agreed disposition other than a disposition that results in nolle prosequi, for a felony offense under applicable state or federal criminal law.”
Proof of primary residence may include but is not limited to:
Driver license with a home address
Voter registration card displaying a home address
Federal income tax return declaring the primary state of residence
W2 from U.S. Government or any bureau, division, or agency thereof indicating the declared state of residence
A. Do you declare Florida to be your primary state of residence and are you providing a Florida address?
Yes No
If you do not have a current Florida mailing address, and wish to have a multistate license, you must provide one of the documents listed above. If Florida is not your primary state of residence, you are not eligible for a Florida multistate license and your application will be processed for a single state license.
B. Do you hold an active NLC multistate license in another state?
A nurse may only hold one multistate license. If your declared primary state of residence is another Compact state and you are not changing your primary residence to Florida, you are not eligible for a multistate license in Florida and should not submit this application, as your NLC license allows you to practice in Florida.
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5.APPLICANT BACKGROUND
A.List any other name(s) by which you have been known in the past. Attach additional sheets if necessary.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
B.What name did you use when you were first licensed? ___________________________________________
C. Have you ever applied for nursing licensure in Florida?
If “Yes,” complete the following:
Application Method
License Type
Date (MM/DD/YYYY)
Examination
Endorsement
LPN
RN
D. Have you ever held a nursing license in Florida?
E.Do you hold, or have you ever held a license to practice nursing or any other health-related license(s)?
F.List all health-related licenses (active, inactive or lapsed).
License
Type
License # State/Country
Original Date
Issued
(MM/DD/YYYY)
Expiration
Date
Status of License
6. DISASTER
Would you be willing to provide health services in special needs shelters or to help staff disaster medical
assistance teams during times of emergency or major disaster?
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7.EDUCATION HISTORY
A. List the nursing school(s) you attended.
School Name:
School Address: (Street, City, State, ZIP, Country)
Graduation Date*
Degree Awarded:
Diploma
ADN
BSN
(MM/DD/YYYY):
*Graduation date or anticipated graduation date.
B.What name(s) did you use when you received your nursing education?
______________________________________________________________________________________
Practical Nurse Equivalency
Applicants who have successfully completed courses equivalent to practical nursing education in a professional nursing program may qualify for NCLEX-PN based on practical nurse equivalency (PNEQ). All professional courses taken must have been successfully completed with a grade of “C –” or better and must have included theory and clinical instruction. The professional or practical nursing curriculum must document clinical experience and theoretical instruction in medical, surgical, obstetric, pediatric, and geriatric nursing. Each curriculum plan must document clinical training experience in appropriate settings that include, but are not limited to, acute care, long-term care, and community settings.
Only LPN PNEQ applicants- Place a checkmark here if you did not graduate from the RN program you attended and are applying for NCLEX-PN based on PNEQ, as defined above. Do not check if you are in or graduated from an LPN program.
PNEQ applicants are required to have their school submit the following items directly to the board office:
Official Transcripts
Course Descriptions
Practical Nurse Equivalency Application Letter (found at the back of the application)
Documentation must be mailed to:
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Applicants educated outside the U.S., or Graduates from U.S. Territories whose regulatory nursing board is not a member of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) are required to have a full education credentials review by a Florida board-approved credentialing agency.
An original copy of the credentials report must be sent electronically to the board directly from the agency. The board does not accept paper copies. Applicants are responsible for paying all fees the agency charges for these services.
Credentials reports received from a credentialing agency not listed below will not be accepted.
Board-Approved Education Evaluation Providers
Ashland Educational Services
Educational Records Evaluation Service, Inc.
Foreign Credentials Evaluation Agency
601 University Avenue, Suite 127
15192 S.W. 137 Street, Suite 10
Sacramento, CA 95825-6738, USA
Miami, FL 33196, USA
Phone: (916) 921-0790 or (866) 411-3737 (Toll Free)
Phone: (786) 457-4608
Fax: (916) 921-0793
Web: http://ashlandeducationalservices.com/
Web: www.eres.com
Josef Silny & Associates, Inc.
Commission on Graduates of
International Education Consultants
Foreign Nursing Schools
7101 S.W. 102 Avenue
3600 Market Street, Suite 400
Miami, FL 33173, USA
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2641, USA
Phone: (305) 273-1338
Applicant Inquiries: (215) 349-8767
Fax: (305) 273-1338
Customer Service Fax: (215) 622-0425
Automated Phone System (to check status):
Web: www.jsilny.org
(215) 599-6200
Web: www.cgfns.org
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Filling out the Florida Board Nursing Application form is an important step in your journey to becoming a licensed nurse. This process may seem daunting at first, but by following a clear set of steps, you can complete the application with confidence. Below are the steps to guide you through the process.
Once you submit your application, the next steps will involve waiting for the board to process your information. Be prepared to register with Pearson VUE for the examination, as this is a necessary part of the licensure process. Stay organized, and keep track of your application status for a smooth journey ahead.
Eligibility for licensure by examination includes graduates from several types of nursing education programs. These programs must meet specific criteria, such as:
If you have questions about specific programs or qualifications, it is best to contact the Florida Board of Nursing for guidance.
To register for the NCLEX, follow these steps:
It is important to register with Pearson VUE before you receive approval from the Board, unless you are educated outside the U.S.
On the day of your exam, you must present valid identification that meets the following criteria:
Acceptable forms of ID include a U.S. Driver License, a state identification card, a passport, a U.S. Military ID, or a Permanent Residence Card. If you do not bring the required ID, you will not be allowed to take the exam.
Graduate Nurse Status allows applicants who have graduated from a nursing program to practice nursing under the direct supervision of a registered nurse before passing the NCLEX. To qualify for GN status:
Keep in mind that if you do not pass the NCLEX on your first attempt, you will lose your GN status and cannot work in that capacity.
The total fee for applying for nursing licensure is $110. This fee covers:
Payment must be made via cashier’s check or money order made out to the Department of Health. If your application is denied or you withdraw, you may receive a partial refund of $60.
If you change your address after submitting your application, it is crucial to notify the Board of Nursing as soon as possible. You can do this in writing or by email. If your address does not match the identification you present on exam day, you may be turned away from the exam. To avoid delays, keep your contact information updated.
Filling out the Florida Board of Nursing Application form can be a daunting task, and it's easy to make mistakes that could delay your licensure. Here are five common pitfalls to avoid.
One frequent error is incomplete personal information. Applicants often forget to fill in all required fields, such as their full name, date of birth, and contact information. Leaving out even one detail can lead to processing delays. Always double-check that every section is complete before submitting your application.
Another mistake is not matching identification information. The name and address you provide on your application must match the identification you will present on the exam day. If there’s a discrepancy, you could be turned away from the testing center. Ensure that your application details align with your ID to avoid unnecessary complications.
Many applicants also overlook the importance of registering with Pearson VUE before applying for licensure. This step is crucial because failure to register can delay your Authorization to Test (ATT). It’s advisable to take care of this registration early in the process to ensure a smooth transition to the examination stage.
Another common oversight is address changes. If you move after submitting your application, it’s essential to notify the board office in writing. Failing to do so can result in delays or even being turned away from your examination. Always keep the board informed of any changes to your address.
Finally, applicants sometimes neglect to check eligibility requirements for Graduate Nurse (GN) status. If you graduated more than three months before applying, you won’t be eligible for GN status. This can limit your ability to practice while waiting for your NCLEX results. Understanding these timelines can help you plan your application process more effectively.
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can navigate the application process with greater confidence and ensure that your journey to becoming a licensed nurse in Florida goes as smoothly as possible.
When applying for nursing licensure in Florida, several additional forms and documents may be required alongside the Florida Board Nursing Application form. These documents help ensure that your application is complete and processed efficiently. Below are some commonly used forms and documents:
Gathering these documents can help facilitate a smoother application process. Make sure to review each requirement carefully to avoid any delays in your licensure approval.
The Florida Board Nursing Application form shares similarities with the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) application. Both documents require detailed personal information, including name, date of birth, and contact details. Each application mandates that candidates meet specific eligibility criteria before they can proceed. For instance, both forms stipulate that applicants must have completed an accredited nursing program. Additionally, both applications involve a registration process with Pearson VUE, emphasizing the importance of accurate identification and compliance with examination protocols.
Another similar document is the application for licensure by endorsement in various states. This application also requires candidates to provide proof of education and prior licensure. Like the Florida Board Nursing Application, it assesses the applicant’s qualifications and ensures they meet the standards set by the respective state’s nursing board. Both applications also include a fee structure and a clear outline of the necessary steps for approval, which helps streamline the process for applicants transitioning between states.
The application for military nursing licensure resembles the Florida Board Nursing Application in its focus on qualifications derived from military training. Both documents recognize the unique experiences of military personnel and provide pathways for licensure based on military education. Each application outlines specific criteria that military applicants must meet to ensure their training is equivalent to civilian nursing programs. This acknowledgment of military service reflects a commitment to supporting veterans and active duty members in their pursuit of nursing careers.
The application for a nursing program admission shares features with the Florida Board Nursing Application in that both require detailed educational histories and personal information. Applicants must provide transcripts and proof of completion of prerequisite courses. Additionally, both documents often include a section for personal statements or essays, allowing candidates to express their motivations for pursuing a nursing career. This aspect highlights the importance of personal commitment and readiness for the demands of the profession.
The application for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license is similar in structure to the Florida Board Nursing Application. Both applications require candidates to provide personal details and proof of completion of an accredited training program. Each document also emphasizes the importance of background checks and adherence to state regulations. This similarity reflects the foundational role that CNAs play in the healthcare system and the need for standardized qualifications across various nursing roles.
The application for a nurse practitioner (NP) license mirrors the Florida Board Nursing Application in its focus on advanced education and clinical experience. Both documents require applicants to demonstrate completion of accredited programs and relevant clinical training. Additionally, both applications involve a review of the applicant's professional history and any disciplinary actions taken in previous roles. This thorough vetting process ensures that only qualified individuals are granted the privilege to practice in these advanced roles.
Lastly, the application for a nursing scholarship or grant often mirrors the Florida Board Nursing Application in its request for personal and educational information. Both forms typically require applicants to outline their financial need and academic achievements. Additionally, they may ask for letters of recommendation or personal essays that discuss the applicant's goals in the nursing field. This similarity highlights the importance of supporting aspiring nurses through financial assistance while maintaining rigorous standards for eligibility.
When filling out the Florida Board Nursing Application form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure a smooth application process. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do.
Understanding the Florida Board Nursing Application form can be challenging. Here are six common misconceptions that applicants often have:
Being aware of these misconceptions can help streamline the application process and ensure a smoother journey toward licensure.
Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements before applying. Graduates from Florida-approved nursing programs or accredited institutions can apply for licensure by examination.
Military Considerations: If you are an active duty member, veteran, or spouse of a service member, you may qualify for a reduction in fees. Check the specific criteria to see if you qualify.
Registration with Pearson VUE: All applicants must register with Pearson VUE and pay the examination fee. This step is crucial and should be completed before receiving board approval, unless educated outside the U.S.
Graduate Nurse Status: If approved for Graduate Nurse status, you can practice nursing under supervision before passing the NCLEX. This status is only valid for three months post-graduation.
Identification Requirements: When attending the examination, present valid identification that matches the name on your application. Acceptable forms include a U.S. Driver License or Passport.
Fee Structure: Be aware of the total application fee of $110, which includes various components. Refunds are available under certain conditions if your application is denied or withdrawn.
Fill in Your Florida Board Nursing Application Form