OAR 851-031-0006: Initial Licensure by Examination – Practical Nurse (PN) and Registered Nurse (RN)

(1) An individual may apply for an initial PN license or RN license by submitting a completed application, which includes: (a) The Board’s initial application by examination form; (b) Payment of the fee as applicable in OAR Chapter 851 Division 2; (c) Confirmation of graduation from a nursing education program as defined in section (2) of this rule; (d) Proof of passing the NCLEX®-PN or NCLEX®-RN depending on the level of licensure sought; and (e) Completion of a national fingerprint-based criminal background check as defined in OAR 851-001-0115. (2) Confirmation of graduation from a nursing education program includes: (a) For graduates of Oregon nursing education programs, verification of graduation by the nursing program administrator. (b) For graduates of non-Oregon nursing education programs that have an NCLEX® code: (A) An official transcript that includes the degree, diploma or certificate awarded, the graduation date, and documentation of a clinical component as defined in OAR Chapter 851 Division 6; and (B) Verification that the nursing education program is approved by the appropriate regulatory body. (c) For graduates of international nursing education programs that do not have an NCLEX® code, a credential evaluation that includes: (A) Confirmation of completion of a nursing education program approved by the appropriate regulatory body; (B) Theory and clinical hours completed; (C) Verification that the education is comparable to an Oregon nursing education program; and (D) If available, licensure details from the issuing authority. (3) An applicant may attempt to pass the NCLEX® four times. After four attempts each subsequent attempt requires a completed retake application, which includes: (a) The Board’s retake form; (b) Payment of the applicable fee in OAR Chapter 851 Division 2; and (c) Documentation of completion of an NCLEX® review course; or (d) An individualized study plan that addresses specific content for areas not passed based on the most recent candidate performance report and study methods, such as self-study, tutors, or study groups. (4) Incomplete applications expire 12 months from the initial submission date.