Many nursing graduates and internationally trained nurses feel uncertain about where they are allowed to sit for the NCLEX. A common concern is whether testing outside the state where you applied for licensure could affect your results or delay your license.
If you are asking can I take the NCLEX in another state, this article explains how testing locations work, where your results go, and what to consider when planning licensure, using only the facts provided.
The Short Answer
Yes, you can take the NCLEX in another state.
The testing location does not affect your eligibility, your score, or where your license is issued. You may take the NCLEX in any state or United States territory that has an approved testing center.
Why Testing Location Does Not Matter
The NCLEX is administered through a contracted testing company. Because of this setup:
- You can test anywhere in the fifty states or the United States territories
- You may choose the testing site that is most convenient for you
- The physical location of your exam does not determine licensure
What matters is where you applied for your Authorization to Test and initial licensure.
Where Your NCLEX Results Are Sent
No matter where you take the exam, your results are sent to the Board of Nursing or Nursing Regulatory Body where you applied.
Key points to understand:
- Your NCLEX results are routed to the Board where you applied for licensure
- Your license will be issued by that same Board if you pass
- Testing in another state does not change which Board grants your license
Your license will appear under the state Board of Nursing you originally applied to, not the state where you physically tested.
Where You Should Apply for Licensure
You should apply for licensure in the state where you intend to legally live or practice.
This is important because:
- Licensure is issued by individual state Boards of Nursing
- You must be licensed in a state in order to work there
- Testing location and licensing state are separate decisions
Example of Testing in Another State
A common scenario looks like this:
- You apply for licensure and Authorization to Test in State A
- You register with Pearson VUE
- You select a testing center in State B
- You take the NCLEX in State B
- Your results are sent to State A
- Your license is issued by State A if you pass
This process is normal and widely used.
Changing the State That Receives Your Results
If you need to change which Board of Nursing receives your NCLEX results, this must be done through Pearson VUE.
What this involves:
- Contacting Pearson VUE
- Requesting a transfer of your application
- Paying a fifty dollar fee
After the transfer, your results will be sent to the new state Board of Nursing.
State-Specific Considerations to Keep in Mind
Initial Licensure Requirements
Some states may not accept out of state education for initial licensure. This is determined by the Board of Nursing, not by where you test.
Licensure Fees
Licensure fees vary by state and are separate from NCLEX testing fees.
Endorsement Complexity
Endorsing a license from one state to another can be complicated in some states. The process may require additional documentation or mailed applications and can take extra time.
Temporary Licenses
Some Boards of Nursing offer temporary licenses. Requirements and availability vary by state, so it is important to check directly with the Board.
Working in a Different State After Passing
To work in a state, you must either:
- Hold a license issued by that state
- Hold a valid compact license if eligible
Testing in a state does not grant permission to work there unless you are licensed for that jurisdiction.
Nurse Licensure Compact Overview
Compact License Eligibility
You may only hold a compact license if you legally declare residency in a compact state and meet all eleven uniform licensure requirements.
Primary State of Residence
Your primary state of residence is determined by documents such as:
- Driver license
- Voter registration
- Federal income tax return
- Military form 2058
- W2 form
How Compact Licenses Work
If you live in a compact state and hold a multi state license, you may work in other compact states without applying for separate licenses.
Texas Example
To qualify for a Texas compact license, a nurse must:
- Reside in Texas as their legal residence
- Hold an active RN or LVN license without current disciplinary action
- Declare Texas as their primary state of residence
- Meet Texas licensure requirements
Important Reminder About State Differences
Licensure rules, education acceptance, fees, and endorsement processes vary by state. Always confirm requirements with the Board of Nursing where you plan to apply or practice.
This article is intended to provide education and clarity, not legal or licensure guarantees.
Final Takeaway
If you are asking can I take the NCLEX in another state, the answer is yes.
Remember:
- You may test anywhere that is convenient
- Your results go to the Board where you applied
- Licensure is state based, not testing location based
- Working requires licensure in the correct state or a compact license
For more guidance on NCLEX planning, licensing pathways, and state specific considerations, you may explore MedCognito resources designed to support nurses through each step of the process.
What part of this process feels most confusing for you right now, choosing a testing site or deciding where to apply for licensure?
