If you’re considering a career in nursing in the state of Virginia, it’s important to understand the requirements and steps involved in obtaining a nursing license. The Virginia Board of Nursing is the authoritative body responsible for granting nursing licenses in the state.
To start your journey towards a Virginia nursing license, the first step is to complete a nursing education program from an accredited nursing school. This is a crucial requirement to ensure you have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality patient care.
Once you have completed your education, you can apply for licensure through the Virginia Board of Nursing. There are two pathways to choose from depending on your situation: licensure by exam or licensure by endorsement.
Licensure by exam is for individuals who have completed a nursing education program and are seeking their first nursing license. The application process includes submitting an application, undergoing a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and registering for the NCLEX exam, which is the national licensing examination for nurses.
Licensure by endorsement, on the other hand, is for nurses who hold a license from another state and wish to practice in Virginia. The process involves submitting an application, providing license verification from your original state of licensure, and completing a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
It’s important to note that Virginia participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which allows nurses from compact states to practice with a multi-state license in Virginia and other compact states. This provides more flexibility for nurses who want to work across state lines.
Once you have successfully met all the requirements and obtained your Virginia nursing license, it’s important to keep it current by renewing it every two years. This involves completing continuing education or practice hours, paying the renewal fee, and submitting the necessary documents to the Virginia Board of Nursing.
Having a Virginia nursing license opens up a world of opportunities in the healthcare field. Whether you want to work in a hospital, clinic, or any other healthcare setting, your nursing license serves as proof of your qualifications and dedication to providing excellent patient care.
Key Takeaways:
- Obtaining a Virginia nursing license requires completing a nursing education program from an accredited school and meeting the licensure requirements set by the Virginia Board of Nursing.
- There are two pathways to obtain a Virginia nursing license: licensure by exam for first-time license applicants, and licensure by endorsement for nurses licensed in other states.
- Virginia participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing nurses from compact states to practice with a multi-state license in Virginia and other compact states.
- Renewing your Virginia nursing license is necessary every two years and involves completing continuing education or practice hours and submitting the required documents and fees to the Virginia Board of Nursing.
- Holding a Virginia nursing license opens up diverse job opportunities in the healthcare industry, providing you with the ability to make a positive impact on patients’ lives.
How to Obtain a Virginia Nursing License
If you’re interested in becoming a licensed nurse in Virginia, there are two paths you can take: licensure by exam or licensure by endorsement. Here’s a breakdown of each process:
Licensure by Exam
- Complete a nursing education program from an accredited school
- Meet the minimum direct client care hours requirement
- Submit a Virginia nursing license application
- Undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Register for the NCLEX exam
- Pay a non-refundable exam fee of $190
Once you have successfully passed the NCLEX exam and fulfilled all the requirements, the Virginia Board of Nursing will issue you a nursing license.
Licensure by Endorsement
- If you already hold a nursing license from another state:
- Submit a Virginia nursing license application
- Complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Provide license verification from your original state of licensure
- Submit proof of primary state of residence
- If your education was obtained in a foreign country, submit a credential evaluation
It’s important to note that Virginia participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). If you hold a multi-state license from a compact state, you can practice in Virginia without obtaining a separate license.
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Renewing and Maintaining Your Virginia Nursing License
Once you have obtained your Virginia nursing license, it is important to keep it current and renew it every two years. The renewal process involves completing the required continuing education or practice hours, paying the renewal fee, and submitting the necessary documents to the Virginia Board of Nursing.
The renewal fee for Registered Nurses (RNs) is $140 and for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is $120. Late renewals will incur additional fees. The Board sends out a License Renewal Notice approximately 60 days before the license expiration date, which includes a unique PIN code for online renewal.
During the renewal process, you need to log into the Department of Health Professions (DHP) license application portal to check the status of your application. If you meet all the Uniform Licensure Requirements and your primary state of residence is Virginia, you will be granted a license with multi-state privilege. This allows you to practice not only in Virginia but also in other compact states.
To maintain your license, you must also meet the continued competency requirements, which can include workshops, seminars, conferences, or post-licensure academic courses. It is essential to keep track of your continuing education documentation and provide it if requested by the Board. Renewing and maintaining your nursing license ensures that you can continue practicing as a nurse in Virginia.
FAQ
How do I obtain a Virginia nursing license?
To obtain a Virginia nursing license, you need to complete a nursing education program from an accredited nursing school and then apply for licensure by exam or licensure by endorsement if you have a nursing license from another state. The application process involves submitting an application, undergoing a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and registering for the NCLEX exam.
What are the requirements for Virginia nursing license application?
The requirements for Virginia nursing license application include completing a nursing education program, meeting the minimum direct client care hours requirement, and submitting an application along with a non-refundable fee of 0. Additionally, a fingerprint-based criminal background check is required.
What is the process for licensure by endorsement in Virginia?
If you already have a nursing license from another state, you can apply for licensure by endorsement in Virginia. The process involves submitting an application, completing a fingerprint-based criminal background check, providing license verification from your original state of licensure, and providing proof of your primary state of residence. If your education was obtained in a foreign country, you may need to submit a credential evaluation.
How do I renew my Virginia nursing license?
To renew your Virginia nursing license, you need to complete the required continuing education or practice hours, pay the renewal fee, and submit the necessary documents to the Virginia Board of Nursing. The renewal fee is 0 for RNs and 0 for LPNs, and late renewals will incur additional fees.
What are the continuing competency requirements for maintaining a Virginia nursing license?
The continuing competency requirements for maintaining a Virginia nursing license can include workshops, seminars, conferences, or post-licensure academic courses. It’s important to keep track of your continuing education documentation and provide it if requested by the Virginia Board of Nursing.
