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.

If I do not have an active license in another state, do I qualify for licensure by endorsement?

Have you ever taken the NCLEX or State Board Test Pool Exam? If you have, you may qualify for endorsement. Please review the Qualifications for endorsement or more information.

How long does it take to be approved for licensure by endorsement?

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.

Can I endorse into Florida if I have an active license in another state but have never taken the NCLEX or State Board Test Pool exam?

If you can obtain verification you have been working in another state, jurisdiction or U.S. territory for two of the last three years you may apply by endorsement.

Who is responsible for requesting verification of my licenses? Does the board request it or do I?

You as the applicant are responsible for requesting licensure verification. The license verification form included in the application is intended to be mailed to states that do not verify licenses through www.Nursys.com (electronic verification).

All other applicants seeking verifications/certifications from U.S. states or territories outside the Nursys system should complete Part I of the form and submit the form to the appropriate state or territory for completion. Check with the appropriate Board to see if they charge a fee for this service.

Where do I find information about the fingerprinting process?

Information about the electronic fingerprinting process can be found at our Background Screening page.

Where can I find the application for APRN?

You can apply by using our online services portal at https://mqa-vo.doh.state.fl.us/datamart/voservicesportal or you may find a PDF version of the application on the Resources page.

Can a Florida RN upgrade to an APRN?

No. The APRN license is independent from the RN license so it will be a different license. You can apply by using our online services portal at https://mqa-vo.doh.state.fl.us/datamart/voservicesportal or you may find a PDF version of the application on the Resources page.

How long will it take to get my license?

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.

Do I need malpractice insurance to be licensed?

APRNs practicing in Florida are required to be covered by malpractice insurance unless they qualify for an exemption listed on the Financial Responsibility Form.

The Financial Responsibility form must be completed and filed with the board office before APRN certification is granted. This form is included in the initial application and is also available separately on the Resources page.

How can I get an exemption from the Malpractice Insurance requirement?

Use the Financial Responsibility Form. Just print it out, complete the form and send it in.

 

Do I need National Certification?

Yes. Effective July 1, 2006, all specialties of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse applying for licensure in Florida must provide proof of National Certification.

How do I submit proof of National Certification?

The national certifying body can submit proof of your certification directly to the board. Applicants may also submit proof by uploading a copy of their certification in their account or by emailing it to mqa.nursingappstatus@flhealth.gov.

Continuing Education

Locate board approved CE Courses for your profession.

ELI Web Assistant

ELI Can Answer Your Questions