Content Overview
Understanding Florida Board Nursing Application
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Who is eligible to apply for licensure by examination in Florida?
Eligibility for licensure by examination in Florida includes several categories of graduates. These include:
- Graduates from Florida-approved nursing education programs.
- Graduates from ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing programs with an NCLEX code.
- Nursing programs recognized by the jurisdiction where they are based, also with an NCLEX code.
- Military nursing programs issued an NCLEX code.
- Generic Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or higher programs with an NCLEX code.
- International education programs deemed equivalent by the Board of Nursing.
- Applicants with practical nursing education completed in a registered nursing program.
- Canadian Registered Nurses who took the CNATS Examination after August 8, 1995.
It is important to note that applicants must also register with Pearson VUE and pay the required fee.
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What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and how does it affect my practice?
The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows registered nurses and licensed practical nurses licensed in one Compact State to practice in other Compact States without needing a separate license. However, nurses must adhere to the nursing practice laws of the state where they are practicing. If a nurse moves to a new state and establishes residency, they must apply for a license in that state.
It's essential to check the NCSBN website for a list of states that participate in the Compact.
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What is Graduate Nurse (GN) Status and how do I qualify for it?
Graduate Nurse (GN) Status allows an applicant to practice nursing under the direct supervision of a registered nurse before passing the NCLEX. To qualify, you must apply to the Florida Board of Nursing and be approved. This status is valid for only three months after graduation. If you graduated more than three months prior to your application, you will not be eligible for GN status.
Employers will require your eligibility letter from the board and your Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE.
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What should I do if I need to change my address after submitting my application?
If you change your address after submitting your application, you must notify the Board of Nursing in writing as soon as possible. This notification is crucial to ensure that all correspondence, including your ATT, is sent to the correct address. You can email your address change to mqa.nursingappstatus@flhealth.gov.
Failure to update your address may result in delays or complications with your examination process.
Common mistakes
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Incomplete Personal Information: One of the most common mistakes is failing to provide complete and accurate personal information. Ensure that your name, date of birth, mailing address, and contact details are filled out completely. Omitting any part of this information can lead to delays in processing your application.
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Incorrect Fees: Applicants often make errors in the payment of fees. It is essential to double-check the total fee required for your application type. Ensure that you pay the correct amount using a cashier’s check or money order, as personal checks are not accepted.
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Failure to Register with Pearson VUE: Many applicants forget to register with Pearson VUE after submitting their application. This registration is crucial for scheduling your examination. If you do not register, your Authorization to Test (ATT) will be delayed.
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Address Changes: Changing your address without notifying the board can lead to significant issues. Your application and registration with Pearson VUE must match the identification you present on the day of your examination. Always inform the board of any address changes promptly.
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Missing Required Identification: On the day of the examination, you must present specific forms of identification. Arriving without the required documents, or with documents that do not match your application, will result in being turned away. Make sure to check the list of acceptable IDs beforehand.
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Neglecting to Apply for Graduate Nurse Status: If you are a recent graduate, you may be eligible for Graduate Nurse (GN) status, which allows you to practice under supervision before passing the NCLEX. However, if you graduated more than three months before applying, you will not qualify for this status. Be aware of the timelines involved.
How to Use Florida Board Nursing Application
Completing the Florida Board Nursing Application form is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a licensed nurse in Florida. Follow these steps carefully to ensure that your application is filled out correctly and completely.
- Gather Required Information: Collect your personal details, including your name, date of birth, mailing address, and contact numbers.
- Fill Out Personal Information: Enter your name, date of birth, and mailing address in the designated fields. Ensure accuracy to avoid delays.
- Provide Physical Location: If your mailing address is a P.O. Box, include your physical address as well. This information will be publicly posted.
- Complete Equal Opportunity Data: This section is voluntary. Fill in your gender and race if you choose to provide this information.
- Email Notification: Indicate whether you want to receive application status updates via email. If yes, provide your email address. Remember that email addresses are public records.
- Application Type: Select the type of application you are submitting, either Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
- Payment Information: Prepare a cashier’s check or money order for the total fee of $110. Make it payable to the Department of Health.
- Review Your Application: Double-check all entries for accuracy and completeness before submitting.
- Submit Your Application: Send your completed application along with payment to the Florida Board of Nursing at the provided address.
Once submitted, your application will be processed. Make sure to register with Pearson VUE for the NCLEX examination as soon as possible to avoid delays in your testing authorization.
File Specs
| Fact Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility for Licensure | Applicants must be graduates from Florida-approved nursing programs or accredited programs recognized by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). |
| Nurse Licensure Compact | Florida is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice across state lines without obtaining a new license, provided they adhere to the nursing laws of the state where they practice. |
| Graduate Nurse Status | Applicants approved for Graduate Nurse (GN) Status may practice under supervision before passing the NCLEX, but this status is valid only for three months post-graduation. |
| Application Fees | The total fee for licensure is $110, which includes processing and initial licensure fees, among others. Refunds are available under certain conditions. |
| Identification Requirements | Applicants must present valid government-issued identification that matches their application details on the day of the examination. Failure to do so may result in being turned away. |
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