Practical Nurse Industry Information

Industry Licensure

New Jersey Board of Nursing Licensure Requirements

There are three elements that are required for licensure as a nurse in the State of New Jersey:

1. Graduation from an approved school for professional nursing or practical nursing;
2. Criminal history background check clearance; and
3. Passing the appropriate National Council Licensure Examination.

Additional Information

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) makes the following information available through their website https://www.ncsbn.org/newnurses.htm, and states that “Completing an approved nursing program and passing the NCLEX are the first steps to beginning a successful nursing career. It is important that nurses understand how their profession is regulated and are aware of issues relating to professional responsibility, including knowing what constitutes a violation of the nurse practice act.”

NCSBN also makes the following video, “New Nurse: A License to Practice,” available on their website https://www.ncsbn.org/8243.htm. A helpful brochure titled, “What You Need to Know About Nursing Licensure and Boards of Nursing,” can be found at https://www.ncsbn.org/brochures-and-posters/what-you-need-to-know-about-nursing-licensure-and-boards-of-nursing.

Students enrolled in the Practical Nurse program are encouraged to visit the NCSBN website and to peruse the many resources that are available.