The Florida Board of Nursing is responsible for issuing licenses to nurses who wish to work in Florida. To be eligible for licensure, foreign-educated nurses must meet certain requirements established by the board. This article will explain Florida Board of Nursing Requirements for Foreign Nurse Licensure.
Details of Licensure Requirements for Foreign Nurses
All foreign-educated nurses must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credentialing organization. The Board of Nursing has published the list of recognized institutions on its website. Once the credentialing organization has assessed the nurse’s credentials, they will provide the Board of Nursing with a report.
The next step is to attend and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The NCLEX is a standardized exam that all nurses must take to be licensed in the United States. Foreign-educated nurses may be required to take an additional English proficiency exam.
After passing the NCLEX, the nurse must submit a licensure application to the Board of Nursing. The application must include all required documentation, as well as the fee. Once all of these steps are completed the nurse will be issued a license and will be able to start practicing in Florida.
Evaluation Process
The Florida Board of Nursing requires all foreign-educated nurses to have their credentials evaluated by an approved credentialing organization, take and pass the NCLEX, and submit a licensure application with all the necessary documentation. Once these steps have been completed, the nurse will be issued a license and can begin practicing in Florida.
Florida Board of Nursing Requirements for Foreign Nurse Licensure- FAQ
1. What are the requirements for foreign nurse licensure in Florida?
To be licensed as a nurse in Florida, foreign-educated nurses must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credentialing organization and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Additionally, the nurse must submit a licensure application to the Board of Nursing that includes all required documentation. Once these steps have been completed, the nurse will be issued a license and can begin practicing in Florida.
2. What Credentialing organizations are approved by the Florida Board of Nursing?
The Board of Nursing has a list of approved credentialing organizations on its website.
3. What is the NCLEX?
The NCLEX is a standardized exam that all nurses must take to be licensed in the United States. Foreign-educated nurses may be required to take an additional English proficiency exam.
4. Where can I send my licensure application with the Board of Nursing?
The application must include all required documentation, as well as the fee. Once the Board of Nursing has received and reviewed the application, they will issue a license to the nurse.
5. What is the cost of obtaining a license?
There is a fee associated with submitting a licensure application to the Board of Nursing. The cost of the license itself will depend on the type of license. Please visit the Board of Nursing website for more information about licensure fees.
6. What documents are required as part of the application process?
The application must contain all the required documentation and the cost of application. Documentation required is but is not restricted to:
- A fully filled application form
- Official transcripts of your nursing program
- Proof of completion from a recognized nursing school
- A copy of your RN license (if applicable)
- A copy of your passport
- A recent photograph
7. How long does the licensure process take?
The length of time it takes to complete the licensure process will vary depending on the individual nurse and the type of license required. It is recommended to wait for six weeks for the whole procedure to be complete.
8. Once I am licensed, can I begin practicing in Florida?
Yes, once the Board of Nursing has issued you a license, you can begin practicing as a nurse in Florida.
9. Are there any special considerations for nurses who have obtained their education and training outside of the United States?
Yes. Foreign-educated nurses must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credentialing organization and pass the NCLEX. Additionally, the nurse must submit a licensure application to the Board of Nursing that includes all required documentation. Once these steps have been completed, the nurse will be issued a license and can begin practicing in Florida.
10. I am a foreign-educated nurse. How can I have my credentials evaluated?
The Board of Nursing has a list of approved credentialing organizations on its website. These organizations can evaluate your credentials and determine if you are eligible for licensure in Florida.
11. Can nurses practice without a license if they are in the process of applying for one?
No. To practice nursing in Florida, nurses must have a valid license. Nurses who are not licensed and practicing without a license may be subject to disciplinary action by the Board of Nursing.
12. What is the process to become registered in Florida as a nurse?
First, the nurse must graduate from an accredited nursing program. Once the educational requirements have been met, the nurse must pass the NCLEX exam. After passing the NCLEX, the nurse must submit a licensure application to the Board of Nursing that includes all required documentation. . After the application is reviewed and accepted, the nurse will be issued a license and can begin practicing in Florida.
13. How often do I need to renew my license?
Florida licenses must be renewed every two years. Nurses must complete continuing education requirements to renew their license.
14. What are the continuing education requirements for nurses in Florida?
Nurses must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their license, with a minimum of 12 of those hours must be obtained through an accredited provider. Additionally, nurses must complete a course on Florida laws and rules governing nursing practice.
15. Can I complete my continuing education requirements online?
Yes, nurses can complete their continuing education requirements online. However, not all courses are available online. Nurses should check with their chosen provider to ensure that the course they wish to take is offered online.
16. How can I find out if a particular course is approved for continuing education credit?
The Board of Nursing has a list of approved continuing education providers on its website. This list includes all providers that have been approved to offer continuing education courses for nurses in Florida.
17. I am a nurse who works in another state. Can I get a license in Florida?
Yes, you may apply for endorsement to your licensure when you’re currently certified in another jurisdiction, and you meet the requirements for Florida’s licensure. To apply for licensure by endorsement, you must submit a licensure application to the Board of Nursing that includes all required documentation. . After your application is accepted and reviewed you will be issued a license and can begin practicing in Florida.
Florida Board of Nursing Address
4042 Bald Cypress Way, Room 120
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Website: https://floridasnursing.gov/
Telephone: (850) 488-0595
Monday to Friday
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET
Also Read: California RN License Renewal Requirements
