Nursing Schools in Delaware
- Number of nursing schools in Delaware is 7
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Delaware ADN programs is 86.57%.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Delaware BSN programs is 84.64%.
- Find the best ranked Delaware
Nursing Licenses in Delaware at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | Yes |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | Yes |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | Delaware Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (302) 744-4500 |
| Full Address | (Insert Full Address Here) |
Nursing Licenses in Delaware
Fees
Endorsement Application:
- RN: $170.00
- LPN: $170.00
Temporary Permit: $40.00
Timing
Permanent License:
- The BON does not commit to a timeframe for permanent licensure.
Temporary License:
- The BON does not commit to a timeframe for temporary licensure.
License Renewal
Renewal Cadence:
- LPN licenses expire on February 28 of even years. RN licenses expire on February 28, May 31, or September 30 of odd years.
- Renewal Fee: Varies. Late renewals will incur an additional 50% fee.
Required Contact Hours:
- During renewal, you must attest that you have completed the required continuing education (CE) and practice hours.
Continuing Education
Delaware Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
APRN Data: Regulatory Structure
- Regulatory Agency: Board of Nursing
- Licensure Requirements: RN license, graduate degree in an NP role, and national certification.
- Full Practice
- Education Requirements: 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: APRNs must obtain national certification in their chosen role and population focus from an approved certifying body.
- Find MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
- State Licensure: Each state, including Delaware, has its own Board of Nursing that regulates APRN practice.
- Prescriptive Authority: Many APRNs, including those in Delaware, have the authority to prescribe medications, though the extent may vary by state.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses must be renewed periodically, with varying requirements for continuing education or practice hours.
- Full Practice Authority: Some states, like Delaware, offer full practice authority to APRNs, allowing them to practice independently without physician oversight. Nursing Practice Act
- eNLC Participation: Delaware is a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing APRNs to practice in other eNLC states.
- Scope of Practice: The scope of practice is defined by state law and may include comprehensive patient care.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Additional requirements may apply depending on the specific APRN role.
- Transition to Practice: New APRNs may require supervised practice hours before gaining full authority.
- Insurance and Liability: APRN malpractice insurance requirements depend on employment and state regulations.
Obtaining and Maintaining Your Delaware Nursing License
Navigating the licensure process is crucial for nurses in Delaware. This guide covers key steps for initial licensure, endorsement from out-of-state, renewal, fees, continuing education, and considerations around multi-state licensing through the Nurse Licensure Compact.
License by Examination in Delaware
Meeting Delaware’s education and examination requirements is the first step to obtaining initial licensure. This section outlines the pathway to licensure for recent nursing graduates.
- Education: Graduates of Delaware Board of Nursing-approved nursing programs qualify to apply for licensure after successful completion of studies.
- Examination: Passing the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam is mandatory. Testing guidelines must be followed.
- Application: Submit a completed application with fee to the Delaware Board of Nursing through the DELPROS online system.
- Background Check: Fingerprinting and criminal history checks are required. Instructions are provided in the application.
License by Endorsement in Delaware
Endorsement enables nurses licensed in other states to practice in Delaware. This pathway recognizes existing qualifications and experience.
- Verification: Active proof of original licensure must be provided directly from your home state’s Board of Nursing.
- Application: Apply online through the DELPROS portal with payment of the endorsement application fee.
- Background Check: Again, fingerprinting for an FBI check is mandatory when applying by endorsement.
Maintain Your Delaware Nursing License
To continue practicing as an RN or LPN in Delaware, licenses must be renewed prior to expiration. This shows ongoing competence.
License Renewal in Delaware
Maintaining licensure through timely renewal is essential for RNs and LPNs in Delaware seeking active practice privileges.
- Continuing Education: Renewing nurses must attest to required continuing education and recent practice hours.
- Renewal Application: Complete license renewal through the DELPROS online portal.
- Renewal Fee: Fees vary and are communicated at renewal. Late renewals incur a 50% penalty.
Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
Ongoing learning demonstrates continued ability to practice competently and safely.
CE Requirements: 30 hours are needed per licensing cycle. A range of accredited activities qualify, detailed on the Board of Nursing website.
Practice Hours: 1,000 hours in last 5 years or 400 hours in previous 2 years.
Financial Aspects of Licensing
The Delaware Board of Nursing charges reasonable fees to cover administrative licensing expenses.
Licensing Fees
Understanding associated costs helps nurses plan for earning Delaware licensure.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $170 |
| Renewal Fee | Varies |
| Temporary Permit | $40 |
Continuing Education Requirements (CEUs)
Beyond mandatory CEUs, ongoing learning fosters career advancement.
[Learn about CE opportunities offered through Delaware Nursing Programs]
Continuing education requirements aim to promote professional growth and best practices. General CEUs give nurses flexibility to pursue topics matching interests and specialty.
Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC)
Delaware’s eNLC membership means wider multi-state privileges for eligible RNs and LPNs.
- Eligibility Criteria: Primary state residence must be maintained in a compact state like Delaware.
- Application Steps: Request licensure through the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact when renewing.
- Primary Residence: Cannot relocate outside Delaware without affecting eNLC license.
