Becoming a registered nurse (RN) is one of the best career paths you can take if you plan to work in Louisiana.
Aside from having high salaries, registered nurses enjoy many career opportunities.
However, you can’t practice nursing in Louisiana without a license.
Despite people thinking that it’s a complicated application process, it isn’t.
We’re here to give you the simplest step-by-step guide to help you get that much-coveted license.
Are you ready to know how to become an RN in Louisiana?
Let’s dive in!
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Louisiana in 3 Steps
Becoming a registered nurse isn’t a walk in the park, but the steps to get there are pretty straightforward. And yes, there are just three major steps.
Here are the steps to becoming an RN in Louisiana:
- Apply for a Nursing Education Program
- Apply for an RN License
- Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for RNs
Yes, it’s that simple. Let’s talk more about them, so you know what to do each step of the way.
How to Become an RN in Louisiana Step #1: Apply for a Nursing Education Program
Whether you’re a high school graduate or if you’re changing careers, you are required to take a nursing education program to be able to work as an RN in Louisiana.
You can take two paths – an associate degree or a bachelor of science degree.
Associate Degree in Nursing
The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a two-year program that trains you in basic medical and health procedures. You will also be trained to do record-keeping and management.
The ADN is better suited for those who want to become a registered nurse faster because you’re only allotting two years to study. It’s also ideal for those who have limited resources to study.
Of course, there are a few drawbacks to taking the ADN, one of which is that ADN graduates might need to take a bachelor’s degree eventually. This is mainly because some hospitals only hire nurses with a bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The longer route is what we call BSN or Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It takes four years to complete, and it is usually the more expensive option.
But despite its disadvantages, taking a BSN is much more beneficial for those who want to take advantage of career opportunities in Louisiana. Unlike those who finish an ADN program, BSN graduates can practice public health management alongside a medical practice.
Each program will have its pros and cons, so it’s best to determine what you want for your career and your current resources (e.g., time and money) to decide on what program fits you more.
Whatever the case, you still need to finish a program approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN). You can find a list of approved programs here.
How to Become an RN in Louisiana Step #2: Apply for an RN License
The next step is to apply for your license through Louisiana’s Nurse Portal.
Here are the steps to apply online:
- Create an account with Louisiana’s Nurse Portal
- Fill up the information required and upload a government-issued photo
- Submit proof of Louisiana residence
- Answer the background check and upload supporting documents for those that you answer ‘yes’ to
- Pay the application fee of $100 and the criminal background check fee of $39.25*
- Submit the criminal background check packet via mail or drop it off at the nearest LSBN office
How to Become an RN in Louisiana Step #3: Pass the NCLEX for Registered Nurses
Of course, part of any licensure process is an exam. Registered nurses in Louisiana all go through the NCLEX unless they apply for a license by endorsement.
If not applying for an endorsement, future registered nurses must apply for an NCLEX date after completing their online license application. Take note that applying for an NCLEX is done after the online application.
To register for the NCLEX, you need to apply online at PearsonVue NCLEX. Pay the exam fee online to get approval to take the exams.
After a few days, you will receive an email about your Authorization to Test. This authorization letter will state the dates when you are required to take the test.
In Louisiana, you’re allowed to take four attempts in four years from the time you graduate from the nursing education program.
Once you pass the test, you will be given your license.
However, you may be wondering…
“Do I still need to take the NCLEX-RN if I’m already an RN in another state?”
Let’s talk about that.
Licensure by Endorsement
We mentioned earlier that there’s such a thing as a license by endorsement. A license by endorsement can be obtained if you have a valid, unrestricted RN license in another US state, have taken a nursing education program, and have passed the NCLEX-RN.
You can also check the full list of requirements here.
If you are eligible, you need to create an account at Louisiana’s Nurse Portal.
Similar to getting a license by examination, you also need to do the following:
- Fill up the information required and upload a government-issued photo
- Submit proof that Louisiana is your permanent state of residence (PSOR)
- Answer the background check and upload supporting documents for those that you answer ‘yes’ to
- Pay the application fee of $100 and the criminal background check fee of $39.25*
- Submit the criminal background check packet via mail or dropped off at the nearest LSBN office along with the Affidavit of Verification of being a licensed RN of another state
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Registered Nurse in Louisiana
How long does it take to become a registered nurse in Louisiana?
Depending on the program you’re taking, you can be a registered nurse in two or four years – two if you’re going to take an associate’s degree (ADN) or four if you’re going to take a bachelor’s degree (BSN).
How long is a Louisiana nursing license good for?
A registered nurse’s license in Louisiana is good for two years before you need to renew it.
To renew your license, you should be able to fulfill the following requirements:
- A minimum of 30 contact hours of continuing education approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing
- A minimum of 900 practice hours during the two years (verified by your employer)
How much is a Louisiana nursing license?
The application fee is a total of $139.25, where $100 is for the application fee, and $39.25 is for the criminal background check packet.
In Summary
Becoming an RN in Louisiana is a great idea, thanks to the state’s many benefits and opportunities!
The road to becoming an RN may take time and effort, but thanks to this guide, we have simplified the process for you.
It’s only a 3-step process anyway, and after you successfully complete these steps, you can be an RN in Louisiana.