Pursuing a career in nursing and looking to get your nursing license in Louisiana? This comprehensive guide provides all the key details, requirements, timelines, and fees associated with obtaining and maintaining a nursing license in the state of Louisiana.
Louisiana Nursing Schools
- Number of nursing schools in Louisiana is 27
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Louisiana ADN programs is 90.47%.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Louisiana BSN programs is 88.67%.
- Find the best ranked Louisiana nursing schools here, RN to BSN programs here, ABSN programs and Nurse Practitioner programs here.
Nursing Licenses in Louisiana at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | Yes |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | Yes |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | Louisiana State Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (225)755-7500 |
Steps, Timelines and Cost for a Nursing Licenses in Louisiana
Nursing licensure in Louisiana starts with completing a nursing program, registering for the NCLEX exam, and then applying for licensure in the state. The timeframes and costs associated with each step can vary. It’s important to understand the specifics for Louisiana to properly plan your journey to becoming a licensed nurse.
| Step in Licensure Process | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Nursing Program (ADN/BSN) | 2-4 years (ADN), 4 years (BSN) | $10,000 – $60,000+ |
| Register for NCLEX Exam | Varies | $200 – $500 |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | Depends on state | $50 – $100 |
| Take NCLEX Exam | Once registered | Included in registration |
| Await NCLEX Results | Up to 6 weeks typically | N/A |
| Apply for State Licensure | After passing NCLEX | $139.25 (RN), $185.00 (LPN) |
| Temporary License Issued (if applicable) | Varies | $239.25(RN) |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | 4-6 weeks typically after applying | Included in application fee |
| Renewal of License | Every 1-2 years | $50 – $500 |
| Continuing Education | Yearly usually | Varies |
Key Highlights for Louisiana Nursing Licenses
- The typical duration for nursing programs in Louisiana is 2-4 years for an ADN program and 4 years for a BSN program, with costs ranging from $10,000 to over $60,000.
- Preparation for the NCLEX exam involves registering for the exam, which can vary in timeline and has costs ranging between $200 and $500.
- The process of fingerprinting and background checks can vary by state with costs between $50 and $100.
- After taking the NCLEX exam, nurses can expect to wait up to 6 weeks to receive their exam results.
- Application for state licensure happens after passing the NCLEX, with fees of $139.25 for RNs and $185.00 for LPNs in Louisiana.
- If applicable, temporary licenses can be issued, the process for which varies. In Louisiana, the fee for an RN temporary license is $239.25.
- After passing the NCLEX, obtaining the official nursing license typically takes 4-6 weeks, and the cost is included in the application fee.
- License renewal in Louisiana occurs every 1-2 years, with fees ranging from $50 to $500.
- Continuing Education requirements vary yearly and can range in costs.
Louisiana Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
In Louisiana, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are vital to the healthcare system. As an APRN, you are required to have a higher level of training and education compared to RNs. This guide will provide you with the basic requirements and steps to become an APRN in Louisiana.
- Education Requirements: In Louisiana, APRNs must have completed a graduate-level education program in one of the four recognized APRN roles: Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or Certified Nurse- Midwife (CNM).
- Certification: Louisiana APRNs must obtain national certification in their chosen role and population focus from an approved certifying body.
- State Licensure: Each state has its own Board of Nursing that regulates APRN practice. In Louisiana, licensure requirements include an application, fees, proof of education and certification, and sometimes a background check.
- Prescriptive Authority: In Louisiana, many APRNs have the authority to prescribe medications. Some states require a collaborative agreement with a physician or additional certification.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: In Louisiana, APRN licenses must be renewed periodically, with requirements for continuing education or practice hours.
- Practice Authority: Louisiana has a Reduced Practice authority, meaning that while APRNs can engage in at least one element of APRN practice, regulation of the practice requires a collaborative agreement with a physician to provide healthcare services. More details can be found here.
- eNLC Participation: If an APRN is practicing in Louisiana, which is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), they may be able to practice in other eNLC states without obtaining additional licenses.
- Scope of Practice: The scope of practice for APRNs in Louisiana is defined by state law and can include patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various health conditions.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Each APRN role in Louisiana may have additional specific requirements related to education, clinical hours, or specialized skills.
- Transition to Practice: In Louisiana, some states require new APRNs to complete a certain number of supervised practice hours before gaining full practice authority.
- Insurance and Liability: APRNs in Louisiana should be aware of malpractice insurance requirements and may need to secure their own policy depending on their employment situation and state regulations.
