State Nursing Boards
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing, tests potential nursing candidates to ensure public protection. Therefore, it is required that every nurse, that resides in the United States, take the NCLEX (National Council of State Boards of Nursing Exam). There are two different licensure examinations; the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses and the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses. There is a difference between the two exams, because Registered Nurses and Practical Nurses require different skills, and it would not be sufficient for them to be tested on the same material.
In order to be eligible to take the NCLEX test, you first must register with the board. Once you are declared an eligible candidate, you will receive an authorization to test. Each state has their own nursing board that follows with the NCLEX’s regulations and rules. They will be the ones administering the test. The content on the exam might also be different, depending on the state’s requisites. For more information on the National Nursing Board and the exam please visit their website.