NCLEX® registration is arguably the most important step on your journey to becoming a nurse. After all, you can't pass an exam that you don't take. Navigating through any bureaucracy can feel overwhelming, but the registration and scheduling process is actually quite simple once you break it down. Below we'll show you how to schedule your exam appointment in four simple steps and discuss everything you need to know regarding NCLEX-RN® and NCLEX-PN® registration, eligibility, and cost.
If you want to practice nursing in the US or Canada, you must take the NCLEX after graduating from an accredited nursing program. While each jurisdiction's nursing regulatory body (NRB) has its own eligibility requirements, common requirements include:
Accurate assessments that predict your readiness
In the US, there are two versions of the NCLEX—NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN. The one you take depends on the level of nursing you wish to practice (see below). Canadian nurses, however, only take the NCLEX-RN. Check with the Nursing Regulatory Board (NRB) of the state where you want to obtain licensure for specific requirements.
| NCLEX-RN vs. NCLEX-PN | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exam Type | License | Requirements | Test Fee | Test Site |
| NCLEX-RN | Registered Nurse | Diploma from RN licensure program or an Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN), or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | $200 USD* $360 CAD** | Pearson Vue Testing Center |
| NCLEX-PN | Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse | Diploma or degree in practical nursing (LPN) or vocational nursing (LVN) | ||
*Additional fees for licensure are determined by the individual State Boards of Nursing
** Excludes local taxes
Most NRBs allow you to take the NCLEX about 45 days after graduating from an accredited nursing program, but you should always check with your NRB for details. However, just because you can take the NCLEX after 45 days doesn't necessarily mean you should.
Asking yourself the following questions will help clarify things:
Below, we'll walk you through the registration and scheduling process in 4 easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: Apply for Licensure
Once you graduate from an accredited nursing school, you can apply for licensure with the Nursing Regulatory Board in the state where you want to be licensed. If you require testing accommodations, you can make a request to the NRB.
Step 2: Register with Pearson VUE
Payment and scheduling for the NCLEX are done through Pearson Vue. You must register online and provide your program code, an email address, and an acceptable form of payment. The name you use when registering must exactly match the ID you present on exam day. If you don't receive confirmation of your registration within two days, contact Pearson Vue Candidate Services.
Step 3: Receive your ATT
After you have registered through Pearson VUE, the NRB will review your application. If they determine that you're eligible to sit for the NCLEX, you'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) via the email address you used to register. Your ATT is essential, and you must have it to schedule your NCLEX appointment. Pay careful attention to the validity dates on your ATT. You must test within the dates provided by Pearson Vue. They will not be extended.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
Now it's time to find a testing location and schedule your exam appointment. You can do this online via the Pearson Vue website or by calling Pearson Vue Candidate Services directly.
Register through the Pearson Vue website. Payments can be made with a debit card, prepaid Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card.
It's recommended that you register online to expedite the process. Simply sign in and request your time/date/location preference.
Use Pearson Vue Candidate Services to find the correct telephone number for your region/language. Payments can be made with debit, prepaid Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card.
Be ready to provide your ATT number and information to verify your identity, then request your time/date/location preference.
Upon graduation from an accredited nursing program, the earliest you can take your NCLEX exam is approximately 45 days. This varies from state to state, so be sure to check with your NRB to find out what the requirement is in your state.
You'll receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) via email once you've registered through Pearson Vue and the NRB declares that you're eligible to sit for the NCLEX. This email is critical as you must have it to schedule your NCLEX appointment. Your ATT is valid for 90 days on average. However, validity dates are set by individual NRBs, so it's essential that you check with yours.
You can cancel your NCLEX registration, but registration fees (including international scheduling fees) will not be refunded under any circumstance. That includes accidentally registering twice, not showing up to your appointment, and forgetting to cancel or reschedule your appointment. You can change an appointment, but you must do so at least one full business day before your scheduled exam.
Missing your NCLEX appointment automatically forfeits your exam fee and invalidates your ATT. If you need to reschedule, you must do so 1 business day (24 hours) in advance of your appointment.
You can take the NCLEX at any domestic Pearson Professional Testing location. For those seeking licensure in the US, that means testing centers within the US and its territories—American Samoas, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and the US Virgin Islands. For candidates seeking licensure in Canada, valid testing centers include those in Canadian provinces and territories and the US mainland (excluding its territories).
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