Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Florida Board of Nursing Help Center – an online tool for applicants, licensees, and the public to search and access our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), contact our office, and learn “how to” do business with the board.
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- Fingerprint Retention FAQs
- LPN/RN Authorization to Test (ATT)
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This would vary from program to program. You will need to check with any prospective programs, but this will not satisfy the background screening requirements for licensure.
Yes, a new background check is required on all new applications for the CNA exam.
No, a new background check is required at time of new application for the CNA exam.
For licensure or certification by the Board of Nursing, all criminal offenses are screened and reviewed prior to licensure or certification. For employment background screening, the employer uses a specified list of disqualifying offenses pursuant to Chapter 435 and Section 408.809, Florida Statute. If the employee has one of these specified offenses, he cannot be employed until he receives an exemption.
You can find a list of approved Prelicensure Nursing Education programs here.
Please review the information for applicants educated outside the United States at: International or Non-NCSBN Jurisdiction Applicant Information
There is no set timeframe for approval of an application. We process applications in date order received. Applications are processed as quickly as possible, but timeframes vary based on the number of applications received and on the length of time it takes receive all necessary documentation.
This status allows the holder to practice nursing under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse if they meet the following qualifications:
- It has not been more than three months since you have graduated from an approved program
- You have been authorized by the Board to practice as a graduate nurse or graduate practical nurse and have received a “Graduate Nurse” or “Graduate Practical Nurse” letter
- You have been authorized to test by the examination vendor
Any applicant who fails to appear for the first examination for which they have been made eligible shall not practice nursing until such time as the applicant passes the NCLEX examination. Only RN applicants by examination who have been approved by the board may use the term “Graduate Nurse” or the abbreviation “G.N.”. Only PN applicants by examination may use the term Graduate Practical Nurse or the abbreviation “G.P.N.”. GN and GPN statuses expire at the date listed on the Graduate Nurse letter or when the applicant takes the examination, whichever comes first.
No. You can only work as a GN or GPN if you have received approval from the board.
Once the board makes you eligible to take the examination your approval will be transferred to Pearson VUE, the examination vendor, via electronic transfer within 2 business days. Pearson VUE will email the Authorization to Test (ATT) if you provided an email address to their office or mail it to you if you did not provide an email address.
NCLEX testing takes place at Pearson VUE centers. Pearson VUE will provide you with information about the available test centers. You may schedule an appointment for any center. You do not have to take the NCLEX in the same jurisdiction in which you are seeking licensure.
Testing is available at Pearson VUE centers 15 hours a day/six days a week. Exams are not offered on Sundays and holidays. Testing availability is subject to change.

Continuing Education
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