NCLEX-RN requirements in Texas
Everything you need to know to get licensed as an RN in Texas: the board, fees, continuing education, renewal cycle, fingerprint requirements, and NLC compact status.
How to get your RN license in Texas
- Graduate from an approved nursing program. Texas accepts ADN and BSN graduates from programs accredited by ACEN or CCNE.
- Apply to the Texas Board of Nursing. Submit your application, transcripts, and the $$70 licensing fee through the board's online portal at https://www.bon.texas.gov.
- Complete fingerprinting and background check. Texas requires a criminal background check via fingerprinting, typically through L-1 Enrollment Services or IdentoGO.
- Register for the NCLEX-RN with NCSBN. Pay the $200 NCSBN fee, receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), and schedule with Pearson VUE.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN. The exam is 75 to 145 questions, computer adaptive, up to 5 hours. Results are reported to your state board within 1–2 business days.
- Receive your license. Texas Board of Nursing issues your license number once your NCLEX results post.
Texas continuing education and renewal
Texas requires 20 continuing education hours per 2-year renewal cycle. Renewals are managed online through Texas Board of Nursing.
State-specific notes: Required 2 hrs nursing jurisprudence/ethics, 2 hrs older adult/geriatric care for some practice areas.
Is Texas a compact state?
Texas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If you hold a multistate license issued by Texas, you can practice in every other compact state without applying for additional licensure. Your primary state of residency must be Texas to issue the compact license here.
How much does it cost to become an RN in Texas?
Total first-time licensure cost in Texas typically runs $320–$380: $70 state fee + $200 NCSBN NCLEX-RN fee + $50–60 fingerprinting, plus optional NCLEX prep ($10–$500 depending on resource).
Free NCLEX-RN practice for Texas candidates
Clarity gives every test-taker 10 free NCLEX questions per day with a free account. Premium ($9.99/mo) unlocks 5,000+ questions, the AI tutor, and 5 timed readiness exams modeled on the live NCLEX-RN — accepted at every state board because the NCLEX itself is the same nationally.