The Florida Board Nursing Application form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to obtain a nursing license in Florida. This form serves as the gateway for applicants to demonstrate their qualifications and eligibility, particularly for those who have graduated from approved nursing programs or are members of the Armed Forces. If you are ready to begin your nursing career, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
Applying for nursing licensure in Florida involves navigating a comprehensive application form that addresses various essential components. First and foremost, the form includes questions regarding military service, offering potential benefits for active duty members, veterans, and their spouses. This reflects Florida's commitment to supporting those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Additionally, the application outlines the eligibility criteria for licensure by examination, specifying that graduates from Florida-approved nursing programs, as well as accredited institutions recognized by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, can apply. It also highlights the implications of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice across state lines without obtaining additional licenses, provided they adhere to the nursing laws of the state in which they practice. Applicants must also register with Pearson VUE, the testing service, and pay associated fees, which are nonrefundable. The form requires personal information, including contact details and identification, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate records to avoid complications during the testing process. Furthermore, it introduces the Graduate Nurse status, allowing recent graduates to practice under supervision while awaiting their licensure examination results. Understanding these aspects is crucial for prospective nurses to ensure a smooth application process and successful entry into the profession.
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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Completing the Florida Board Nursing Application form is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a licensed nurse in Florida. This process involves providing essential personal information, selecting the appropriate application type, and ensuring that all required fees are submitted. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is completed accurately and efficiently.
After submitting your application, you will need to register with Pearson VUE and pay the examination fee. This step is essential for obtaining your Authorization to Test (ATT). Be sure to keep track of your application status and any notifications from the board to ensure a smooth process moving forward.
To be eligible for licensure by examination in Florida, applicants must have graduated from specific nursing education programs. These include:
Canadian Registered Nurses and Practical Nurses also have specific requirements based on their testing history and licensure status. Ensure you review the detailed eligibility criteria before applying.
After you submit your application for licensure, it is essential to register with Pearson VUE, the testing service for the NCLEX examination. You must pay the examination fee, which is nonrefundable. Registration can be completed online at the Pearson VUE website or by calling their customer service. It is advisable to register as soon as possible, even before receiving approval from the board, to avoid delays in your Authorization to Test (ATT).
Applicants educated outside the United States should wait for board approval before registering. Remember, if you do not take your scheduled examination within 90 days of receiving your ATT, you will need to re-register and pay the fee again.
On the day of your examination, you must present valid identification that matches the name and address provided in your application. Acceptable forms of identification include:
All identification must be government-issued, valid, contain a photograph, and include your signature. If you arrive without the required identification or if it does not match your application details, you will be turned away and required to re-register.
Graduate Nurse (GN) status allows an applicant to practice nursing under the direct supervision of a registered nurse before passing the NCLEX. To qualify for GN status, you must apply to the Florida Board of Nursing and be approved. This status is only valid for three months following your graduation.
If you graduated more than three months prior to your application, you will not be eligible for GN status. Additionally, if you do not pass the NCLEX on your first attempt, you will lose your GN status and will no longer be eligible for employment in that capacity. Employers will require proof of your eligibility letter and ATT from Pearson VUE.
Failing to read the entire application before starting. This can lead to misunderstandings about requirements and deadlines.
Not providing accurate personal information. Ensure that your name, date of birth, and contact details are correct and match your identification.
Overlooking the need for valid identification at the examination center. You must present acceptable identification that matches your application details.
Neglecting to register with Pearson VUE before or after board approval. This can delay your examination and licensure process.
Failing to notify the board of any address changes promptly. This can result in missed communications and delays in processing your application.
Not applying for the Graduate Nurse (GN) Status if eligible. This status allows you to practice under supervision before passing the NCLEX.
Submitting the application without the required fees. Ensure you include the correct amount and payment method as specified.
Ignoring the 90-day rule for taking the examination after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT). Failure to comply requires re-registration.
Not checking for updates or notifications from the board. Regularly check your email or contact the board to stay informed about your application status.
Misunderstanding the requirements for military applicants. Ensure you know what qualifies for licensure if you are a veteran or active service member.
When applying for nursing licensure in Florida, several additional forms and documents may be required alongside the Florida Board Nursing Application form. These documents provide necessary information and support for the application process. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents.
Each of these documents plays a crucial role in the licensure process, ensuring that applicants meet all necessary requirements. It is important to gather and submit these documents in a timely manner to avoid delays in obtaining nursing licensure in Florida.
The Florida Board Nursing Application form shares similarities with the Nurse Practitioner Application. Both documents require applicants to provide personal information, educational background, and proof of clinical experience. Each application also includes sections that address eligibility requirements and necessary documentation. Just like the nursing application, the Nurse Practitioner Application emphasizes the importance of adhering to state regulations and guidelines for practice.
Another similar document is the Physician Assistant Licensure Application. This form, like the nursing application, requires detailed information about the applicant’s education and training. Both documents also include sections for background checks and verification of credentials. They both aim to ensure that only qualified individuals are allowed to practice in their respective fields.
The Medical Licensing Application is another document that aligns closely with the Florida Board Nursing Application. Both applications require verification of education and training, as well as proof of passing relevant examinations. They also include sections that address any disciplinary actions or criminal history, ensuring that applicants meet the ethical standards required for practice.
The Pharmacy Licensure Application has similar features as well. Both forms require applicants to provide personal details, educational history, and proof of examination completion. Each application also emphasizes the importance of compliance with state laws and regulations, ensuring that only qualified professionals are licensed to practice in their fields.
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Application is another document that resembles the Florida Board Nursing Application. Both require applicants to submit proof of education and training, along with background checks. They also include sections on eligibility criteria and necessary documentation, ensuring that applicants meet the standards set by the state for safe practice.
The Occupational Therapy Licensure Application shares similarities as well. Both documents require detailed personal information, educational history, and proof of passing relevant examinations. Each application also emphasizes compliance with state regulations, ensuring that only qualified individuals are granted licensure.
The Social Work Licensure Application also mirrors the Florida Board Nursing Application in several ways. Both require applicants to provide their educational background and proof of supervised experience. Each application includes sections for background checks and verification of credentials, ensuring that applicants meet the ethical and professional standards required for practice.
Lastly, the Speech-Language Pathology Licensure Application is similar to the nursing application. Both documents require personal information, educational history, and proof of clinical experience. They also include sections that address eligibility requirements and necessary documentation, ensuring that only qualified individuals are licensed to practice in their respective fields.
When filling out the Florida Board Nursing Application form, it is essential to approach the process with care and attention. Below are some important guidelines to help ensure a smooth application experience.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application process is as efficient and successful as possible. Remember, taking the time to prepare and review your application can make a significant difference in achieving your nursing licensure goals.
Misconceptions about the Florida Board Nursing Application form can lead to confusion and delays in the licensure process. Below are seven common misconceptions, along with clarifications to help you better understand the application requirements.
Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure a smoother application process. It is always advisable to refer to the official Florida Board of Nursing resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.