The Florida Board Nursing Application form is a crucial document for individuals seeking licensure as registered nurses or licensed practical nurses in Florida. This form collects essential personal and educational information to assess eligibility for nursing practice in the state. If you are ready to begin your nursing career, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
Embarking on a nursing career in Florida involves navigating the essential Florida Board Nursing Application form, a critical step for aspiring nurses. This form serves as the gateway to licensure, ensuring that applicants meet the necessary qualifications to practice safely and effectively. Key components of the application include personal information, eligibility criteria, and specific instructions for both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). For those with military ties, the form recognizes active duty members, veterans, and their spouses, offering potential fee reductions. Additionally, it outlines the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which facilitates multi-state practice for nurses licensed in participating states. Applicants must also register with Pearson VUE to take the NCLEX examination, a requirement that underscores the importance of thorough preparation. Understanding these elements not only streamlines the application process but also sets the foundation for a successful nursing career in the Sunshine State.
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.
Page 3 of 22
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 mqa.nursingappstatus@flhealth.gov.
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.
Page 4 of 22
Nursing Licensure by
Examination Application
Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 6330
Tallahassee, FL 32314-6330
Fax: 850-617-6460
Email: mqa.nursingappstatus@flhealth.gov
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.
Page 5 of 22
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
Page 6 of 22
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.
Page 7 of 22
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?
Page 8 of 22
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:
Page 9 of 22
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
Email: Admin@AshlandEducationalServices.com
Email: edu@eres.com
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
Email: info@jsilny.org
Automated Phone System (to check status):
Web: www.jsilny.org
(215) 599-6200
Email: info@cgfns.org
Web: www.cgfns.org
Page 10 of 22
Filling out the Florida Board Nursing Application form is an essential step for those seeking licensure in nursing. Completing this form accurately ensures that your application is processed smoothly and efficiently. Below are the steps to guide you through the application process.
After submitting your application, be prepared for the next steps in the licensure process. This will include registering with Pearson VUE for the NCLEX examination and awaiting approval from the Board of Nursing. Stay proactive in checking your application status and ensure all information is up to date.
1. Who is eligible to apply for licensure by examination in Florida?
Eligibility for licensure by examination includes graduates from Florida-approved nursing education programs, as well as those from accredited programs recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Additionally, military nursing programs and certain international education programs may qualify. It's essential to ensure that your program has been issued an NCLEX code by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) to be eligible.
2. What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and how does it affect my application?
The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows registered nurses and licensed practical nurses licensed in one Compact State to practice in other Compact States without obtaining a new license. If you move to a different Compact State and declare it as your primary residence, you must apply for a new license there. However, the NLC does not cover Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. Make sure to adhere to the nursing laws of the state where you are practicing under your Compact license.
3. What should I do if I change my address after submitting my application?
If you change your address after submitting your application, it is crucial to notify the Florida Board of Nursing as soon as possible. You can send an email to mqa.nursingappstatus@flhealth.gov with your updated information. Keeping your address current helps avoid any delays or issues related to your examination and licensure process.
4. How do I register for the NCLEX exam, and what are the associated fees?
To register for the NCLEX exam, you must register with Pearson VUE and pay a nonrefundable fee of $200. This fee is separate from the application fees you pay to the Florida Board of Nursing. It's advisable to register with Pearson VUE before your application is approved, except for applicants educated outside the U.S., who should wait for board approval. Be sure to check the NCLEX Candidate Bulletin for detailed registration instructions.
5. What happens if I do not pass the NCLEX exam on my first attempt?
If you do not pass the NCLEX exam on your first attempt, you will lose your Graduate Nurse (GN) status and will no longer be eligible for employment in that capacity. You must re-register for the exam and may need to complete a board-approved remedial course if you have failed the exam three consecutive times. It's important to stay informed about the requirements and prepare adequately for your next attempt.
6. What identification do I need to bring on the day of the NCLEX exam?
On the day of your NCLEX exam, you must present your Authorization to Test (ATT) letter along with an acceptable form of identification. This identification must be government-issued, valid, and include your name in Roman characters, a photograph, and a signature. Acceptable forms include a U.S. Driver License, a state identification card, a passport, a U.S. Military ID, or a Permanent Residence Card. Ensure that the name and address on your application match the identification you present.
Filling out the Florida Board Nursing Application form can be a daunting task, and mistakes can lead to delays or even rejection of your application. Here are nine common mistakes to avoid.
First, many applicants fail to provide complete personal information. Missing details such as your full name, date of birth, or mailing address can cause significant delays. Ensure that every section is filled out accurately and completely before submitting.
Second, using a P.O. Box for your physical location can lead to complications. If your mailing address is a P.O. Box, you must provide a physical address as well. This physical address will be publicly posted, so be prepared for that requirement.
Third, some applicants overlook the importance of matching identification. The name and address on your application must match the identification you present on exam day. Discrepancies can result in being turned away from the testing center.
Fourth, failing to register with Pearson VUE before applying can delay your process. It’s crucial to register and pay the fee as soon as possible. Remember, all fees paid to Pearson VUE are nonrefundable.
Fifth, neglecting to notify the board of any address changes can create issues. If you change your address after submitting your application, notify the board office in writing to avoid delays in receiving important correspondence.
Sixth, not providing an email address can hinder your ability to receive updates about your application status. If you choose to provide an email, remember that it becomes a public record under Florida law.
Seventh, failing to check eligibility for Graduate Nurse (GN) status can lead to missed opportunities. If you graduated more than three months before applying, you will not qualify for this status, which allows you to practice under supervision.
Eighth, many applicants forget to include all required fees. Ensure you submit the correct amount in the form of a cashier's check or money order. Incomplete payments can delay your application process.
Lastly, ignoring the NCLEX requirements can be detrimental. If you are a Canadian Registered Nurse or have taken the CNATS examination, make sure you understand whether you need to take the NCLEX or apply for endorsement based on your test scores.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can streamline your application process and move one step closer to your nursing career in Florida.
When applying for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing, several additional documents are often required to complete the application process. Each of these documents plays a crucial role in ensuring that applicants meet the necessary qualifications and standards for nursing practice.
Each of these documents is vital for a smooth application process. Ensuring that all required forms are completed and submitted can help facilitate timely licensure and support the applicant's journey into the nursing profession.
State Nursing License Application: Similar to the Florida Board Nursing Application, state nursing license applications require personal information, proof of education, and completion of a national examination. Both forms ensure that applicants meet the necessary qualifications to practice nursing.
National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) Registration: Like the Florida application, NCLEX registration involves submitting personal details and proof of eligibility. Both processes are essential for aspiring nurses to demonstrate their competence in the field.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Application: The CNA application shares similarities with the Florida Board Nursing Application in that both require background information, proof of education, and compliance with state regulations to ensure safe practice.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Application: This application is akin to the Florida nursing application as it demands educational credentials, proof of national certification, and adherence to state-specific regulations for advanced practice.
Healthcare Provider License Application: Similar to the Florida Board Nursing Application, this document requires verification of educational background and professional qualifications to ensure that applicants meet the standards set for healthcare providers.
Physical Therapy License Application: The physical therapy application mirrors the Florida nursing application by requiring personal information, educational verification, and proof of examination completion, ensuring that all practitioners are qualified.
Occupational Therapy License Application: This application shares common elements with the Florida Board Nursing Application, including the need for educational proof, background information, and examination results to ensure competence in the field.
Pharmacy License Application: The pharmacy application is similar to the Florida nursing application in that it requires applicants to provide personal information, educational background, and examination results to validate their qualifications for practice.
When filling out the Florida Board Nursing Application form, it is essential to approach the process with care. Below are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
Understanding the Florida Board Nursing Application form is crucial for a smooth licensure process. Here are some common misconceptions:
Awareness of these misconceptions can help streamline your application process and ensure compliance with all requirements.
Here are some key takeaways regarding the Florida Board Nursing Application form: