Passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a critical step on your path to becoming a registered nurse. Before you sit for the test, there are several NCLEX exam requirements you’ll need to meet. From education and background checks to state-specific licensure rules, understanding the requirements can help you avoid delays and feel more confident as exam day approaches.

The essentials of the exam journey include how to register, what to expect from your NCLEX schedule, and which documents and qualifications you’ll need to provide along the way. Graduation from an accredited nursing program is the first requirement for NCLEX eligibility.

All About the NCLEX Exam

• Page 1) NCLEX Exam Requirements: What You Need to Know Before You Test
• Page 2) How to Prepare for the NCLEX: 11 Tips
• Page 3) What is the NCLEX Pass Rate?

Educational Requirements: Earning an Approved Nursing Degree

Before you apply for RN licensure through your state board of nursing, you will need to earn an approved nursing degree in order to be granted permission to take the NCLEX:

• An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – possibly earned in an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.

Your nursing program must be approved by the state board of nursing and accredited by recognized bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA), or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Choose a program with high NCLEX pass rates and preparation support within the curriculum to enhance your likelihood for first-time success on the test.

Clinical Hour Requirements: Hands-On Experience Before the Exam

Completion of clinical hours as specified by the program requirements of your nursing school is a standard NCLEX exam requirement across all states. While the exact number of hours varies depending on the program and state, these hands-on experiences are designed to give you supervised practice in real health care settings.

Clinical hours must be logged and verified by your nursing program before you become eligible to apply for licensure. Many programs will automatically send your transcripts or a certificate of program completion to your chosen state board after graduation. In most cases, you cannot complete NCLEX registration until you’re officially graduated and your school has confirmed your eligibility.

Some nursing programs streamline this process by sending transcripts and graduation verification directly to the state board shortly before your last semester ends, allowing you to begin the registration process sooner. It’s a good idea to talk to your school’s nursing advisor (or NCLEX coordinator) to find out when you can start the process and what steps they will handle on your behalf.

Background Checks and Proofs of Identity

Before you can receive Authorization to Test (ATT), states require a fingerprint-based criminal background check. This check may include both federal and state records. Background checks are often completed through a designated vendor or law enforcement agency and may need to be scheduled in advance.

A criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you from becoming licensed, but it may delay approval. Each board of nursing will evaluate the nature of any offense individually. The application for nursing licensure by examination must be completed with the state nursing regulatory agency before registering for the NCLEX. An ATT is issued only after the state has approved you to take the test.

All NCLEX applicants must submit valid identification, which typically includes a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). Your name must match across all documents including your school records, NCLEX registration, and state nursing license application. Inconsistencies can lead to delays or denial of your ATT.

NCLEX Registration: How to Register for the Exam

NCLEX registration is a two-step process involving both your state board of nursing and Pearson VUE, the official testing service.

Step 1: Apply to Your State Board of Nursing

First, you will need to complete an application for licensure through your state’s board of nursing (or state licensing agency). This application for licensure via examination may include:

• Proof of graduation (transcript or verification from your school)
• Background check documentation
• Application fee (varies by state)
• Other state-specific forms

Only after your state board confirms your eligibility will you receive your ATT.

Step 2: Register with Pearson VUE

Second, you will register for the exam through Pearson VUE where you will:

• Pay the NCLEX fee (currently $200)
• Create an account using the same name used in your application
• Receive your ATT via email once your eligibility is approved

Once you receive your ATT, you can choose your NCLEX schedule.

NCLEX Schedule: Choosing Your Exam Date

The ATT is typically valid for 90 days, but exact time frames can vary by state. Scheduling early is recommended to secure your preferred date and testing location. Pearson VUE testing centers operate throughout the U.S. and internationally. Test dates and availability can fill up quickly, especially during peak graduation months (May through July).

On exam day, you can expect:

• Test length of up to 5 hours total
• Minimum of 85 questions (maximum 150)
• Optional breaks
• No returning to previous questions once submitted

You will need to bring the same identification that you used during registration.

State-Specific NCLEX Exam Requirements

Each state has its own nursing licensure procedures. Below is a snapshot of what to expect in Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska.

Missouri

To take the NCLEX in Missouri, you'll apply through the Missouri State Board of Nursing, which outlines all the steps for licensure. Make sure to complete the fingerprinting process and gather any required documents ahead of time.

• Apply via the Missouri State Board of Nursing
• Fingerprinting through Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS)
• Official transcripts and proof of approved nursing program completion
• May require notarized forms or other additional documents

Kansas

Your nursing license application is submitted to the Kansas State Board of Nursing. It's important to plan ahead, especially for background checks and transcript submissions.

• Fingerprinting through the Kansas Bureau of Investigation
• Transcripts sent directly from your nursing program
• Complete the state application before the Pearson VUE registration

Iowa

The Iowa Board of Nursing uses a three-step application process, and everything must be submitted within a year of graduation. This includes your fingerprints, transcripts, and fee.

• Submit state application, fingerprint cards, and payment
• Official transcripts are required before ATT is issued
• All requirements must be completed within 12 months of graduation

Nebraska

Licensure in Nebraska is managed online through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

• Submit your online application with required documentation
• Complete fingerprinting via the Nebraska State Patrol
• Official transcript must be sent directly from your nursing school

Becoming a registered nurse is about meeting the requirements that ensure your readiness to provide safe, competent care. Understanding the NCLEX exam requirements, getting organized about your NCLEX registration, and selecting your NCLEX schedule wisely will help you start your nursing career with confidence.

Prepare for NCLEX Success with Rockhurst University’s Hybrid ABSN Program

Rockhurst University's Hybrid ABSN program supports your success beyond graduation with a 1-credit NCLEX Study Prep Strategies course during your final semester and 1:1 coaching after graduation. This added layer of support helps prepare you to take the NCLEX-RN with confidence.

With a 93% NCLEX pass rate for BSN graduates, dedicated NCLEX prep support, and hands-on training through expert-led instruction and clinical placements, Rockhurst University's Saint Luke’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences equips you with a strong foundation for nursing licensure.