Texas Board of Nursing requirements for international nurses 

Thinking about relocating to Texas for your next nursing career? It’s an exciting move, but before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand the Texas Board of Nursing licensure process. Whether you’re an experienced nurse or newly qualified, we can help to guide you through it. 

Eligibility criteria for international nurses

Eligibility for a nursing licence with the Texas Board of Nursing requires you to complete a board-approved education programme. It must be similar to an approved nursing programme in the United States of America. Your credentials could be the equivalent to: 

• Diploma in Nursing: Often provided by hospitals, these programmes usually take between two and three years to complete. 
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Commonly taught at community colleges, this qualification usually takes two and three years to finish. 
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year degree offered by universities. 
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): An advanced programme for specialised positions, which usually requires a BSN or a degree in a health-related subject for enrolment. 
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): This the highest US level of nursing education, centred on clinical practice. 

The standard of healthcare provided in Texas is exceptionally high and working as a nurse in the United States requires a significant level of expertise. To ensure consistency, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has implemented standardised criteria for international nurses applying for registration, ensuring they meet all necessary requirements.  

How to apply for licensure in Texas

When you apply for licensure with the Texas Board of Nursing, you’ll need to complete several steps and meet specific criteria. Learn more about the requirements ensure a smoother process and prevent delays in your application. 

Licensure by exam 

Most international nurses applying for a nursing licence in Texas must apply for licensure by examination. This is the best way for the Board of Nursing to assess international nurses’ credentials and skills. To get your licence by examination, you must: 

• Submit a Credential Evaluation Service report (CES): From the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing (CGFNS) or from another approved agency. 
• Complete the Nursing Jurisprudence Exam (NJE) exam: All nurses applying for their initial nursing licence in Texas must pass this before applying to do the NCLEX. 
• Take an English language proficiency exam: For all nurses who didn’t complete their training in English. 
• Pass the NCLEX exam: Nurses are required to take this at testing centres on a computer. Nurses who have already passed the NCLEX in Canada may not need to take it again. 
• Undertake background checks: First, you must apply for pre-enrolment with MorphoTrust (through IdentoGo) to submit your fingerprints by post. Next, you need to obtain a set of fingerprints from a criminal law enforcement agency (or IdentoGo centre), recorded on an official Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprint card. All fingerprints must be taken by a law enforcement agency and sent to MorphoTrust once received, along with a confirmation receipt. 

Licensure by endorsement 

If you’re a Canadian nurse and have already passed your NCLEX, you may be eligible to get your nursing licence by endorsement if you meet the Texas Board of Nursing’s requirements.  

To make an application for licensure by endorsement in Texas, you must complete the following steps: 

• Submit an endorsement application and pay the application fee. 
• Provide fingerprints as per the instructions above. 
• Send verifications of every current or past nursing license or authorisation to practice to the regulatory board.  
• Supply any additional documents or information requested following the review of your application (e.g. a copy of your basic nursing education certificate, diploma or degree; a copy of your current driver license; a Credentials Evaluation Service (CES) report). 

Texas licensure fees for international nurses

When deciding to become a nurse in the United States, it’s important to take into account the cost of moving to the US, which can vary from state to state. Texas is usually praised for its higher salaries, and its licensing fees are considered to be similar to other states. The fees you will need to pay to get a nursing licence in Texas are: 

• CGFNS CES Professional Report: $485 USD, with an expedited review costing an additional $425 USD. 
• English language proficiency tests: Typically ranges from $180 USD to $300 USD, depending on the location. 
• Nursing jurisprudence examination: A maximum of $25. 
• NCLEX registration fee: $200 USD, with an additional $150 USD scheduling fee. 
• In Texas, the total cost of a nursing licensure is $114.75, which includes: 
• Examination fee: $75 USD 
• Fingerprint service: $10 USD 
• Fee for the State and National Criminal History Record Information: $29.75 USD 

Processing times

Once you have met all the requirements and have sent over all the documents to the state board of nursing, you can typically expect to get your permanent licence within 15 business days. However, the Texas Board of Nursing states that the timeframe for the whole process depends on the length of time to complete each stage. 

Texas compact state licence application process 

Texas is a member of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC), which enables nurses to practise in other participating states without the need to obtain separate licences. All nurses wishing to hold a multistate licence must apply through the Texas Board of Nursing. To be eligible for a compact state licence in Texas, nurses must: 

• Live in Texas as their legal state of residence 
• Have an active registered nurse (RN) licence without any current disciplinary action 
• Declare Texas as their primary state of residence 
• Meet Texas licensure requirements 

Why work as an international nurse in Texas

Texas is one of the best states for international nurses to move to in the US. Nurse pay in Texas is among some of the highest in the United States, offering a median hourly rate of $44.08. Coupled with the fact that workers don’t pay state income tax means that nurses get to keep more of their salary.  

The state showcases an extraordinary range of landscapes, from arid deserts and rolling plains to lush forests and coastal shores. With major cities like Houston, Austin and San Antonio at the centre of development, nurses and their families can enjoy a rich variety of cultural events throughout the year. San Antonio, in particular, offers a unique blend of history, vibrant arts and family-friendly attractions like the River Walk and the Alamo. Whether you prefer the excitement of city life or the tranquillity of peaceful suburban neighbourhoods, Texas provides a beautiful and diverse environment to call home. 

Is there a nursing shortage in Texas?

Texas is experiencing a strong and growing demand for nurses. It’s projected that the need for nurses in the state will quadruple between 2015 and 2030. This is driven by several key factors, including: 

• Rapid population growth 
• Healthcare expansion 
• Need for RNs across metropolitan and rural areas 

Texas has more healthcare facilities than any other state, which helps drive a steady demand for nurses. This need is further amplified by the growing ageing population across the US.  

To tackle the nursing demand, the state is pushing for laws that support nurse training and hiring. Meanwhile, the Texas Hospital Association has partnered with the Texas Nurses Association to improve working conditions and staffing.  

How Espirita can help you move to Texas

Our relocation experts are here with you every step of the way, ensuring that you’re confident throughout your relocation to the US. We’ll be with you from the very beginning to your first day, helping you with: 

• Relocation, including booking accommodation and travel 
• State board applications 
• Documentation collation guidance 
• Work visa application 

Looking to start your nursing career in Texas or anywhere in the US? Espirita connects international nurses with top healthcare employers, guiding you through every step, from licensing to finding accommodation. Let us help you turn your dream of working in the US into a reality. Register with us to kickstart your career in the US.