Registration for the NCLEX-PN requires advance authorization.
After graduating from an accredited nursing program and earning a certificate in nursing, all licensed practical nurses (LPN) must take and pass a state licensing exam. The standardized nursing certification exam for LPNs is known as the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX, which measures a candidate's understanding of basic nursing procedures. Candidates for employment as LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN (Practical Nurse) exam with their state. The first step in this important process is registration for the exam. Careful attention to all required steps makes the process less stressful.
Instructions
1. Apply to take the NCLEX-PN examination. You must first contact your state board of nursing (see the Resources section). You may do this in writing, via email as well as over the phone. All nursing boards must verify a candidate's eligibility to take the exam before the registration process may begin. Some nursing certification programs will complete this initial step for you.
2. Fill out the required NCLEX-PN Examination Candidate Bulletin. The bulletin will come in the mail shortly after you contact the board. You will be asked for detailed information about your qualifications. Officials want evidence that you have completed all requirements for a certificate in nursing before you may begin. This includes proof of passing grades in nursing classes as well as a completed term of off-site clinical education at a nursing home or hospital.
3. Register for the NCLEX-PN. Registration can be done by phone or via completion of a mail-in form. Registration does not guarantee you the right to take the exam. The state board of nursing must give you permission to do so after it has verified your credentials.
4. Complete the form known as Authorization to Take the Test (ATT). The ATT is an official permission slip from the state board of nursing to take the NCLEX-PN. This should come in the mail after you've registered. The form will contain official verification from state board officials that you have met necessary criteria to take the exam. At this time, you also will receive information with details about local testing centers where the exam is given. You must pay a fee before you can take the exam. As of August 2010, the fee is $200, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
5. Schedule a date for the exam. Most state boards allow you to choose from a specific range of dates. Give yourself enough time to review all important study notes, become familiar with actual contents of the exam and take any timed practice exams.
