West Virginia Nursing Schools
- Number of nursing schools in West Virginia is 2,108
- Average NCLEX passing rate for West Virginia ADN programs is 85.80%.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for West Virginia BSN programs is 86.21%.
- Find the best ranked West Virginia nursing schools, RN to BSN programs, ABSN programs, and Nurse Practitioner programs.
West Virginia Nursing Licenses at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | Yes |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | Yes |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | West Virginia Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (304) 744-0900 |
West Virginia Nursing License
To earn a nursing license in West Virginia, you follow a process that includes completing a nursing program, registering and passing the NCLEX exam, and applying for state licensure. If applicable, a temporary license may be issued. Finally, the official nursing license is obtained and then renewed periodically with continuing education requirements.
| Step in Licensure Process | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Nursing Program (ADN/BSN) | 2-4 years (ADN) <br> 4 years (BSN) | $10,000 – $60,000+ |
| Register for NCLEX Exam | Varies | $200 |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | Depends on state | $50 |
| 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 | RN: $125.00, LPN: $50.00 |
| Temporary License Issued (if applicable) | 5-7 business days | No extra charge for RNs |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | 14 business days | Included in application fee |
| Renewal of License | RNs: Every 2 years, LPNs: Every 2 years | RNs: $90.00 |
| Continuing Education | Yearly usually | Varies |
Key Highlights for West Virginia Nursing Licenses
In a bold bulleted list:
- The duration and cost for nursing programs within West Virginia typically range from 2-4 years and $10,000 – $60,000+ respectively.
- To obtain authorization to take the NCLEX exam, candidates must first complete a nursing program and then register for the exam.
- The cost of NCLEX registration is $200 and fingerprinting or background checks can add an additional cost of approximately $50.
- After taking the NCLEX exam, nurses in West Virginia typically wait up to 6 weeks to receive their test results.
- To apply for state licensure, nurses must submit an application and pay a fee of $125.00 for RNs and $50.00 for LPNs. The license is usually granted within 14 business days upon receipt of all required materials.
- The state of West Virginia issues temporary licenses to RNs at no extra charge, which typically takes around 5-7 business days.
- The official nursing license, obtained after passing the NCLEX, can take up to 14 business days to be issued.
- For license renewal, RNs are required every 2 years with a renewal fee of $90.00. They are also required to complete 12 hours of continuing education for each 2-year renewal period.
West Virginia Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
APRNs in West Virginia operate under reduced practice. They must complete their education, obtain national certification in their chosen role, and apply for state licensure to practice. Additionally, APRNs need to meet continuing education requirements to maintain their licensure.
Key takeaways:
- Education Requirements: APRNs must have completed a graduate-level education program in one of the four recognized APRN roles: Certified Registered 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.
- State Licensure: Each state has its own Board of Nursing that regulates APRN practice. Licensure requirements can vary by state, but generally include an application, fees, proof of education and certification, and sometimes a background check.
- Prescriptive Authority: Many APRNs have the authority to prescribe medications, but the extent of this authority varies by state. Some states require a collaborative agreement with a physician or additional certification.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses must be renewed periodically, with requirements for continuing education or practice hours.
- Full Practice Authority: Some states offer full practice authority to APRNs, allowing them to practice independently without physician oversight. West Virginia operates under reduced practice, requiring collaboration, supervision, or delegation by a physician under the state Nursing Practice Act.
- eNLC Participation: If an APRN is practicing in a state that 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 is defined by state law and can include patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various health conditions.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Each APRN role may have additional specific requirements related to education, clinical hours, or specialized skills.
- Transition to Practice: Some states require new APRNs to complete a certain number of supervised practice hours before gaining full practice authority.
- Insurance and Liability: APRNs should be aware of malpractice insurance requirements and may need to secure their own policy depending on their employment situation and state regulations.
