Interested in advancing your nursing career and obtaining your Nursing License in Tennessee? Our comprehensive guide gives you all the essential details, requirements, timelines, and fees associated with earning and maintaining your nursing license in the Volunteer State.
Tennessee Nursing Schools
- Number of nursing schools in Tennessee is 52.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Tennessee ADN programs is 89.86%.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Tennessee BSN programs is 89.03%.
- Find the best ranked Tennessee nursing schools:
- Nursing Schools – RN Programs in Tennessee
- RN to BSN programs – RN to BSN Programs in Tennessee
- ABSN programs – Accelerated Nursing Programs (BSN)
- Nurse Practitioner programs – Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee
Nursing License in Tennessee at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | Yes |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | No |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | Tennessee Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (615) 532-5166 |
Nursing Licenses in Tennessee
Steps, Timelines and Cost for a Nursing Licenses in Tennessee
The process to earn a nursing license in Tennessee is straightforward but requires attention to detail and adherence to specific steps and timelines. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
| 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 | $115 |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | Approximately 6 weeks | Included in application fee |
| Renewal of License | Every 2 years | $100 |
| Continuing Education | Yearly usually | Varies |
Key Highlights for Tennessee Nursing Licenses
- Nursing Program Duration and Cost: ADN programs in Tennessee typically take 2-4 years, while BSN programs last around 4 years. Costs range from $10,000 to over $60,000.
- NCLEX Exam Authorization: Authorization for the NCLEX exam in Tennessee involves a variable process with a registration cost of $200 to $500.
- NCLEX Exam Costs and Wait Times: NCLEX registration in Tennessee includes fees for fingerprinting or background checks. Results are usually available within 6 weeks.
- State Licensure Application: After passing the NCLEX, the licensure application fee in Tennessee is $115, with an expected processing time of approximately 6 weeks.
- Official Nursing License: Obtaining the official nursing license in Tennessee takes about 6 weeks post-application, with the fee included in the initial application.
- License Renewal: Tennessee requires license renewal every 2 years during the nurse’s birth month, with a renewal fee of $100.
Tennessee Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
In Tennessee, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) play a crucial role in healthcare delivery. The licensing process for APRNs is rigorous and involves several steps to ensure the highest standards of patient care.
Key Highlights for Tennessee APRN Licenses
- Education Requirements: APRNs in Tennessee must complete a graduate-level education program in one of the APRN roles: CNP, CRNA, CNS, or CNM.
- Certification: National certification in the chosen APRN role is essential and must be obtained from an approved certifying body.
- State Licensure: The Tennessee Board of Nursing regulates APRN practice, requiring an application, fees, and proof of education and certification.
- Prescriptive Authority: In Tennessee, many APRNs can prescribe medications, subject to state-specific rules and agreements.
- **Renewal and Continuing Education:** APRN licenses in Tennessee must be renewed periodically, with specific continuing education or practice hours requirements.
- Practice Authority: Tennessee has a Restricted Practice Authority for APRNs, defining the scope of practice under state law.
- eNLC Participation: Tennessee’s participation in the eNLC allows APRNs to practice in other eNLC states without additional licenses.
- Scope of Practice: APRNs in Tennessee are authorized to perform patient assessments, diagnoses, treatments, and manage health conditions.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Each APRN role in Tennessee may have additional requirements related to education, clinical hours, or specialized skills.
- Transition to Practice: Tennessee may require new APRNs to complete supervised practice hours before gaining full practice authority.
- Insurance and Liability: APRNs in Tennessee should consider malpractice insurance requirements, which may necessitate securing their own policy.
