How to Get a Nursing License in Texas

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics’ estimates show that Registered Nurses in the US will experience a 12% job growth between 2018 and 2028. The employment growth for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses will be 11%. The average job growth of all other occupations is around the 5% mark, so nurses will be in demand in the future.

Nurses are an integral part of any healthcare setting. The job is tough and not for everyone but if you think you have what it takes to become a nurse, then read the following guide for information.

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

According to the estimates projected by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for Registered Nurses (RNs) will increase by 12% from 2018 to 2028. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LPNs and LVNs) will enjoy an 11% employment growth. These are extremely positive estimates which show that nursing will be in demand.

There are certain steps you need to complete to become a nurse in Texas. These steps are:

1. 1. Get the Required Education

Registered Nurses need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to start their careers in the field. As for LPNs, a postsecondary nondegree award will be good enough. However, since competition for jobs is high, a lot of employers prefer LPNs with an associate’s degree.

2. 2. Clear the Licensure Exam

Both Registered and Licensed Practical Nurses have to clear the NCLEX test to apply for a license. RNs have to pass the NCLEX-RN exam whereas the LPNs need to clear the NCLEX-PN test. This test is a mandatory requirement for nurses all across the US.

3. 3. Get the License

After clearing the NCLEX, aspiring candidates will have to submit an application for licensure with the relevant state board/authority. No nurse can practice in the US without a license. Candidates will also have to submit fingerprints and background history. Once the background screening and all other requirements have been fulfilled, the license will be issued.

It will take Registered Nurses around 4 to 6 years to get their license after completing all the steps. The duration for Licensed Practical Nurses is less. It will take LPNs between 1 to 2 years to become eligible to apply for a job.

The following requirements need to be fulfilled if you want to become a nurse in Texas:

In 2019, Registered Nurses made $74,540 as annual mean income in Texas. Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses in Texas earned $47,370.