How to Get a Nursing License in Ohio

Nurses are an important part of a healthcare setting. They work tirelessly all year round to help doctors and other paramedic staff with looking after sick and injured people. No healthcare facility would function without capable nurses.

The demand for nurses is also expected to increase in the future so this is as good a time as any to join this noble profession and help people.

If you think you can tackle the challenges that come with working as a nurse, then it would be a good idea to join this profession. Read the following guide to find out what it takes to become a nurse in Ohio.

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

There is good news for aspiring nurses. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted a very positive job outlook for the profession between 2018 and 2028. Registered Nurses are expected to experience 12% job growth whereas Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses will enjoy an 11% increase in employment opportunities.

1. 1. Get the Required Education Credentials

If you want to become a Registered Nurse (RN), then you will need a bachelor’s degree to start your journey. If you aspire to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), then a postsecondary nondegree award will suffice. Getting better educational credentials however will always be beneficial.

2. 2. Pass the Mandatory NCLEX

Both RNs and LPNs have to clear the National Council Licensure Examination. Registered Nurses are mandated to pass the NCLEX-RN test while Licensed Practical Nurses have to clear the NCLEX-PN. Without clearing these exams, you will not be allowed to apply for your license.

3. 3. Complete the Licensing Requirements

After clearing your NCLEX test, you will need to apply to the relevant state board or authority for the provision of your license. You will have to pass a background screening and submit your fingerprints. Once these final steps are cleared, you will be given your license and you can start looking for jobs right away.

It will take you anywhere between 1 to 2 years to become an LPN. The duration is longer if you want to become an RN. This difference in duration is mainly because of the educational requirements. It can take you anywhere between 4 to 6 years to become a Registered Nurse.

The following requirements have to be met to become a nurse in Ohio:

Registered Nurses in Ohio earned $68,220 (annual mean income) in 2019. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses made $45,020 in Ohio in 2019. These figures have been obtained from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.