From graduation to your first nursing license

1. 1

   Choose the jurisdiction

   Decide where you are seeking initial licensure and read that nursing regulatory body's requirements. Application forms, deadlines, background checks, accommodations, and fees are jurisdiction-specific.

2. 2

   Apply to the regulatory body

   Submit the licensure or registration application required by that jurisdiction. The regulatory body determines whether you are eligible to take the NCLEX.

3. 3

   Register with Pearson

   Complete the NCLEX registration process and provide the required program and payment information. Use a first and last name that exactly matches the identification you will present at the exam.

4. 4

   Watch for eligibility and your ATT

   After the regulatory body declares you eligible and registration is complete, Pearson sends the Authorization to Test email. Check the name, exam type, jurisdiction, and validity dates immediately.

5. 5

   Schedule and prepare

   Schedule within the ATT validity dates. Review the current candidate bulletin, candidate rules, test plan, tutorial, identification requirements, and rescheduling rules on the official NCLEX site.

6. 6

   Test and verify the outcome

   Follow exam-day rules. Your regulatory body issues the official result and license; verification timing and available result services vary. Confirm license status through the board or Nursys where applicable.

Official resources