Failing the NCLEX can feel overwhelming. Many nurses describe a mix of disappointment, fear, and uncertainty about what comes next. If you are asking if you fail the NCLEX when can you take it again, you are not alone.
This article explains the retake rules clearly and calmly, using only the facts provided, so you can understand your options and plan your next steps with confidence.
The Minimum Waiting Period After Failing the NCLEX
National Waiting Rule
After an unsuccessful attempt, you must wait at least forty-five days before retaking the NCLEX.
This is a national policy set by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. You are not allowed to test again during this waiting period. The forty-five days are counted from the date you last took the exam.
Authorization to Test Timing
You may begin the reapplication process at any time after failing. However, you will not be able to schedule a new exam until your Authorization to Test becomes valid again.
Your new Authorization to Test will not be valid until no earlier than forty five days after your previous attempt.
State Exception
- Pennsylvania requires a forty-six-day waiting period instead of forty-five
How Many Times Can You Retake the NCLEX?
National Retake Limits
Under national guidelines, you may take the NCLEX up to eight times per year, as long as there are forty-five test-free days between each attempt.
This means you cannot take the exam back to back. The waiting period always applies.
State and Board Variations
Each Nursing Regulatory Body may set stricter rules. Some states limit the total number of attempts, require remediation, or impose deadlines tied to graduation.
Always check your specific board rules, as they may override the general guideline.
States With Specific Attempt Limits
States With Three Attempt Limits
- Colorado
Three attempts within three years. A fourth attempt requires a waiver petition and completion of an approved nursing program. - Florida
Three attempts. A board approved remedial course is required to reinstate eligibility for a fourth attempt. - Hawaii
Three attempts, then a remedial course is required. - New Jersey
Three attempts, then a remedial course is required. - New Mexico
Three attempts within three years of initial eligibility.
States With Four Attempt Limits
- Louisiana
Four attempts within two years of graduating. - Louisiana Practical Nursing
Four attempts within two years. - Nevada
Four attempts.
States With Five Attempt Limits
- New Hampshire
Five attempts.
States With Six Attempt Limits
- Mississippi
Six attempts within two years of graduation. - Michigan
Six attempts total. After three failures, a remediation program is required.
States With Higher or Unlimited Limits
- Wyoming
Two attempts initially, up to ten total within five years. - New York
Unlimited retakes. Candidates only pay the Pearson VUE NCLEX retake fee.
States With Additional Requirements
- Indiana
After three failures, candidates must present a plan to the nursing board before retesting a fourth time. - South Carolina
Failing within one year requires remediation. By the third anniversary, candidates must re enroll in a nursing education program.
Time Limits After Graduation
General Timeframes
Although national guidelines allow multiple attempts per year, many states require you to pass the NCLEX within a certain number of years after completing your nursing program.
Commonly referenced limits include passing within three years of graduation, though this varies by state.
State Specific Graduation Deadlines
- Georgia
Must pass within three years. Candidates must pass within five years of finishing the program. - Texas
Must pass within four years of graduation. - Michigan
Must take the exam within two years of graduating.
How to Re-register for the NCLEX After Failing
To retake the exam, candidates must complete all required steps again.
Required Steps
- Contact your Nursing Regulatory Body to notify them of your intent to retake
- Re-register with Pearson VUE
- Pay all required fees
Standard Fees
- Two hundred-dollar Pearson VUE retake fee for each attempt
- One hundred fifty-dollar scheduling fee
- Seventy-five-dollar reapplication fee
State Specific Fee Examples
- Texas
One hundred thirty-nine dollars to the Texas Board of Nursing and two hundred dollars to Pearson VUE. - California
Retakers must reapply and pay an additional fee with a new application.
Your Nursing Regulatory Body will inform you of any additional fees or documents required before you become eligible to test again.
Impact on Provisional Licenses
Some states issue provisional licenses with strict conditions.
Kentucky Rules
- A provisional license is valid for six months or becomes invalid after a second unsuccessful NCLEX attempt
- Applications remain valid for one year unless the candidate is unsuccessful on the NCLEX
Important Note for International Nurses
If you need to retake the NCLEX, you do not need to retake the CGFNS Qualifying Exam.
Your CGFNS certification remains valid for life.
A Gentle Reminder About State Differences
NCLEX retake rules vary by state, board, and licensing pathway. Always confirm your eligibility, deadlines, and remediation requirements with your Nursing Regulatory Body before scheduling another attempt.
This article is intended for education and clarity, not as legal or licensure advice.
Final Reassurance
Failing the NCLEX does not mean the end of your nursing journey. Many nurses pass on a later attempt after adjusting their preparation and timeline.
If you are asking if you fail the NCLEX when can you take it again, the key points to remember are:
- The minimum wait is forty five days
- Some states limit the number of attempts
- Graduation deadlines may apply
- Re-registration and fees are required each time
If you would like structured guidance on retake planning, timelines, and exam readiness, you may explore MedCognito NCLEX resources created for international nurses and healthcare professionals.
