Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program
The Wyoming Board of Nursing plays a pivotal role in granting Wyoming nursing licenses to qualified candidates through examination and endorsement. Prospective nurses must successfully complete an accredited nursing program before applying for licensure.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Designed as a pathway into the nursing profession, the ADN focuses on foundational nursing skills and knowledge.
- Duration: Approximately 2 years
- Cost: Varies, typically between $6,000 and $40,000
- Best ADN Nursing Schools in Wyoming
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- A comprehensive degree that delves into nursing theory, research, and practice, the BSN equips graduates with a broader skill set for a wider range of nursing roles.
- Duration: Approximately 4 years
- Cost: Varies, typically between $40,000 and $100,000
- Best Nursing Schools in Wyoming
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
- Intended for those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, the ABSN program allows students to leverage their prior education and fast-track their nursing career.
- Duration: Approximately 11 to 18 months
- Cost: Varies, typically between $30,000 and $75,000
- Best Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Wyoming Nursing Licenses
Wyoming Nursing Licenses
Step 2 – Apply for a Nursing License in Wyoming
To apply for a nursing license by endorsement in Wyoming, follow these steps:
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements for licensure by endorsement. You must have an active nursing license from another jurisdiction in the United States.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the Wyoming Board of Nursing Licensure by Endorsement Application online.
- Submit the Required Fees: Pay the appropriate fees for the licensure by endorsement application. As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the fees were:
- Registered Nurse (RN): $135
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): $110 Note that fees are subject to change, so please verify with the Wyoming Board of Nursing.
- Request License Verification: Contact your original state of licensure and request them to send the verification directly to the Wyoming Board of Nursing.
- Complete a Criminal Background Check (CBC): Follow the instructions in the section below.
Criminal Background Check (CBC)
To complete the Criminal Background Check (CBC), follow these steps:
- Request Fingerprint Cards: Obtain two fingerprint cards from the Wyoming Board of Nursing or your local law enforcement agency. You can request cards from the Board by emailing [email protected].
- Complete Fingerprinting: Visit your local law enforcement agency to have your fingerprints taken. Ensure that your fingerprints are rolled onto both cards, and all required fields are filled out.
- Submit Fingerprint Cards and Fee: Mail the completed fingerprint cards, along with a check or money order for the fingerprint processing fee, to the Wyoming Board of Nursing. As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the fee was $60. Note that fees are subject to change, so please verify with the Wyoming Board of Nursing.
- Wait for Results: The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) will process your fingerprints and send the results directly to the Wyoming Board of Nursing. Allow 4-6 weeks for processing.
Once all the required documents, fees, and CBC results have been received by the Wyoming Board of Nursing, your application will be reviewed. If approved, you will be issued a Wyoming nursing license by endorsement.
Step 3 – Prepare and Take the NCLEX Exam
The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is a crucial step for Wyoming nurses seeking licensure by examination. This standardized exam tests nursing knowledge and skills to ensure candidates are competent and safe to practice nursing.
- Register for the NCLEX: Visit the Pearson VUE website and create an account to register for the NCLEX exam. The registration fee, as of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, was $200. Note that fees are subject to change, so please verify with Pearson VUE.
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT): After the Wyoming Board of Nursing approves your application, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) via email. The ATT contains your authorization number, candidate identification number, and an expiration date.
- Schedule your NCLEX exam: Use the information provided in your ATT to schedule your exam through the Pearson VUE website.
- Prepare for the NCLEX: Invest time in studying and preparing for the NCLEX. Utilize resources like study guides, practice questions, and online courses to enhance your understanding and improve your test-taking abilities.
- Take the NCLEX exam: On your scheduled exam date, arrive at the testing center with appropriate identification and be prepared to take the exam. The time allocated for the NCLEX-RN is 6 hours, while the NCLEX-PN has a 5-hour time limit.
- Receive your NCLEX results: The Wyoming Board of Nursing will notify you of your exam results, typically within 6 weeks.
- If you pass the NCLEX exam, the Wyoming Board of Nursing will issue your nursing license, and you will be eligible to practice as a licensed nurse in the state.
- If you fail the NCLEX exam, you must wait 45 days before retaking the exam. Review your performance report, identify areas for improvement, and continue studying and preparing for your next attempt.
The NCLEX exam focuses on the following main and subcategories, which assess a candidate’s nursing knowledge and competence in various clinical scenarios:
- Safe and Effective Care Environment: This category examines the nurse’s ability to create a secure and efficient environment for patient care.
- Management of Care: Focuses on the nurse’s ability to prioritize and coordinate patient care, including delegation, advocacy, and collaboration.
- Safety and Infection Control: Evaluates the nurse’s understanding of proper safety measures, emergency response, and infection control protocols.
- Health Promotion and Maintenance: This category tests the nurse’s proficiency in promoting healthy lifestyle choices, disease prevention, and early detection of health issues through patient education and screenings.
- Psychosocial Integrity: This category assesses the nurse’s competence in providing emotional and mental health support to patients and their families, addressing issues like coping mechanisms, stress management, and therapeutic communication.
- Physiological Integrity: This category examines the nurse’s skills in providing care to patients with acute or chronic physical health issues.
- Basic Care and Comfort: Focuses on the nurse’s ability to address patients’ fundamental needs, including hygiene, nutrition, mobility, and pain management.
- Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies: Evaluates the nurse’s knowledge of medication administration, dosage calculations, and monitoring for side effects or interactions.
- Physiological Adaptation: Tests the nurse’s understanding of complex health conditions, including pathophysiology, medical emergencies, and the management of critically ill patients.
The exam assesses your understanding of these areas and evaluates your ability to apply nursing principles in various clinical scenarios. Ensure you are well-prepared to demonstrate your competence and knowledge on the NCLEX exam.
Resources for Preparing for the NCLEX Exam
Wyoming nurses seeking licensure by examination can benefit from various resources to prepare for the NCLEX exam. These resources can help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the exam content, improve your test-taking skills, and increase your confidence.
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Learning Extension: NCSBN offers online review courses designed specifically for the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exams. Wyoming nurses can choose from different course lengths and gain access to practice questions, quizzes, and expert support.
- Khan Academy NCLEX-RN Content Review: Khan Academy provides a free collection of videos and practice questions covering various topics related to the NCLEX-RN exam. Wyoming nurses can use this resource for a comprehensive review of key concepts.
- UWorld NCLEX Review: UWorld offers an online question bank with detailed explanations, performance tracking, and test-taking strategies tailored for the NCLEX exam. This resource is suitable for Wyoming nurses who want to focus on practicing exam-style questions.
- RegisteredNurseRN.com: RegisteredNurseRN.com offers free video lectures, quizzes, and study guides on a wide range of nursing topics. Wyoming nurses can utilize this resource to review specific subjects and reinforce their understanding.
- Study Guides and Textbooks: There are numerous study guides and textbooks available for NCLEX exam preparation. Popular options include Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination and Lippincott’s Q&A Review for the NCLEX-RN. Wyoming nurses can use these resources to review essential nursing content and practice with exam-style questions.
- Practice Exams and Sample Questions: Taking practice exams and working through sample questions can help Wyoming nurses familiarize themselves with the NCLEX exam format, identify knowledge gaps, and develop test-taking strategies. Resources like the NCSBN NCLEX Practice Exam and Quizlet NCLEX Question Sets provide opportunities to practice and improve your performance.
By using a combination of these resources, Wyoming nurses can create a personalized study plan that addresses their unique needs and maximizes their chances of success on the NCLEX exam.
License by Endorsement
Obtaining a Wyoming nursing license by endorsement involves several steps, ensuring that out-of-state nurses meet the requirements to practice safely and competently in Wyoming. Follow these guidelines to navigate the process smoothly:
- Confirm Eligibility: To be eligible for licensure by endorsement, nurses must hold an active nursing license in another U.S. jurisdiction.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the Wyoming Board of Nursing Licensure by Endorsement Application online.
- Submit Required Fees: Pay the necessary fees for your licensure application. As of September 2021, the fees were:
- Registered Nurse (RN): $135
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): $110 Note: Fees are subject to change. Verify with the Wyoming Board of Nursing.
- Request License Verification: Ask your original state of licensure to send verification directly to the Wyoming Board of Nursing.
- Complete a Criminal Background Check: Follow the instructions provided by the Wyoming Board of Nursing to complete a background check. For more information, refer to the “Criminal Background Check (CBC)” section in a previous response.
Wyoming is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which allows nurses with a multistate license from another eNLC member state to practice in Wyoming without obtaining a separate Wyoming nursing license.
To qualify for an eNLC multistate license, nurses must meet uniform licensure requirements, including passing a federal and state criminal background check, completing an accredited nursing education program, and meeting other eligibility criteria. If you hold a multistate license from another eNLC state, you can begin practicing in Wyoming without further endorsement.
Maintain, Transfer, Renew, Revive, Lookup
Managing your Wyoming nursing license requires attention to various stages, such as maintaining, renewing, or reactivating your license. This guide offers comprehensive descriptions of each stage, ensuring your license remains in good standing.
Lookup Your Nursing Status
To verify your Wyoming nursing license status, visit the Wyoming State Board of Nursing License Verification website. Enter the required information, and you can access details about your license’s status, expiration date, and any disciplinary actions on record.
Maintaining Your Nursing Credentials
Maintaining your Wyoming nursing credentials involves staying up-to-date with professional practice requirements, including completing the necessary continuing education (CE) units. The Wyoming State Board of Nursing mandates specific CE requirements for RNs and LPNs. Regularly check with the Board for updates and ensure you meet the current CE requirements to maintain your license in good standing.
License Renewal
Renewing your Wyoming nursing license is a crucial step in retaining your ability to practice. Wyoming nursing licenses must be renewed every two years. To renew, visit the Wyoming Board of Nursing website, log in to your account, and complete the renewal application. Pay the associated fees and submit any necessary documentation to ensure a timely renewal.
Reviving License
If your Wyoming nursing license has lapsed, you must revive it to resume practicing. The process for reviving a license involves submitting a reinstatement application, completing any outstanding continuing education requirements, and paying the applicable fees. Visit the Wyoming Board of Nursing website to access the reinstatement application and instructions.
Inactive Status
If you choose to take a break from nursing practice in Wyoming, you can place your nursing license on inactive status. To request inactive status, contact the Wyoming Board of Nursing and follow their guidelines. While your license is inactive, you are not authorized to practice nursing in Wyoming.
Reactivating Your Nursing License
To resume practicing in Wyoming after your license has been inactive, you must reactivate your nursing license. Reactivating your license typically involves submitting a reactivation application, completing any required continuing education units, and paying the associated fees. Visit the Wyoming Board of Nursing website for detailed instructions on reactivating your nursing license.
Costs and Timelines for a Wyoming Nursing License
| Question | Answer | Fee | Details and/or Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Does Wyoming Belong to the eNLC? | Yes | N/A | N/A |
| Does Wyoming Belong to Nursys? | Yes | N/A | Lookup your license on Nursys |
| What is the fee and timeframe for obtaining a License by Endorsement after all material have been received? | License by Endorsement | RN: $135, LPN: $110 | Timelines vary; check with the Wyoming Board of Nursing |
| What is the fee and timeframe for obtaining a License by Examination after graduating? | License by Examination | RN: $130, LPN: $105 | Timelines vary; check with the Wyoming Board of Nursing |
| What is the Fee for Fingerprint Card in Wyoming | Fingerprint Card | $60 | Fee may vary, check with the Wyoming Board of Nursing |
Physical and Mailing address Wyoming Board of Nursing
Wyoming State Board of Nursing
130 Hobbs Avenue, Suite B
Cheyenne, WY 82002
Phone: (307) 777-7601
Website: https://nursing-online.state.wy.us/
Continuing Education for Wyoming Nurses
Wyoming does not specify a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) or hours that nurses must complete.
Instead, Wyoming nurses are required to complete one or more of the following continuing competency activities during each two-year licensure period:
- Practice of nursing (a minimum of 500 hours)
- National certification or recertification related to the nurse’s practice role
- Completion of a refresher or re-entry program
- Completion of an academic program of study in nursing or a related field
- Verification of competency and a specific number of hours practiced as evidenced by employer certification
- Completion of two or more nursing professional development or academic education activities (such as academic courses, presentations, publications, research projects, or teaching a course)
The costs associated with these activities can vary widely depending on the type of activity. For example, the cost of an academic course will depend on the institution, while the cost of obtaining a national certification can depend on the certifying body. Some activities, such as practicing nursing or completing employer-provided training, may not have any additional costs.
Navigating the process of obtaining and maintaining Wyoming nursing licenses can be made easier with the right resources. Here are some key organizations that provide valuable information and services related to Wyoming nursing licenses:
- Wyoming Board of Nursing: This is the primary regulatory body for nursing in Wyoming. The Board oversees the licensure of nurses, approves nursing education programs in the state, and enforces the nursing practice act to ensure safe and competent nursing care.
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): NCSBN provides resources and services to assist nursing regulatory bodies, like the Wyoming Board of Nursing, in promoting safe and effective nursing practice. It’s also the organization responsible for the development and administration of the NCLEX exams.
- NCLEX: The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a standardized exam that each state board of nursing uses to determine whether a candidate is prepared for entry-level nursing practice. Wyoming nursing licenses require successful completion of the NCLEX.
- Pearson VUE: Pearson VUE is the authorized administrator of the NCLEX exams. Candidates seeking Wyoming nursing licenses can register for the NCLEX, schedule their exam, and access preparation resources through Pearson VUE.
- Nursys: Nursys provides online verification for nurses seeking licensure in another state. If you’re looking to endorse your nursing license to or from Wyoming, Nursys can provide quick and easy verification of your license.
- 50 State Nursing License Information: This resource provides comprehensive information about nursing licensure requirements in all 50 states. If you’re considering moving to or from Wyoming, this resource can help you understand the requirements for nursing licensure in your new state.
