California Nurse Licensing Guide

Permanent License

1. Submit an application online via BreEZe and pay the fee. The process is similar for RNs and LPNs, but each license has its own separate Board of Nursing. Click here for the CA Board of Registered Nursing and click here for the CA Board of Vocational Nursing. 

• RNs may also mail in the completed application packet. However, the Board indicates the process is significantly faster if you opt for the online route.

2. Provide a background check with fingerprints. Instructions for fingerprinting for RNs can be found here, and information for LPNs can be found here.

• For residents in California: If using a LiveScan method, you must use a Live Scan site located in California. The Board will not be able to receive results for fingerprints taken at Live Scan locations that are outside of California.
• At the Live Scan site, they will scan your fingerprints electronically and transmit them immediately for processing.
• Before requesting a copy of the Live Scan fingerprint form, you must first submit your application for licensure.
• Most local law enforcement agencies in California have Live Scan equipment. Hours of operation and fees vary, so please contact the Live Scan site directly for information.
• For residents outside of California or CA residents who are are unable to access Live Scan, you may use the manual fingerprint (hard card) method:

1. You will need to use FD-258 for fingerprinting. Please check the facility at which you will be fingerprinted to determine whether they will provide an FD-258 card or require you to bring your own.
2. You may also obtain an FD-258 card at your local law enforcement agency, such as a police station or sheriff’s office. RNs may also request one from the Board of Registered Nursing by using our Fingerprint Request Form. LPNs can find more fingerprinting information here. 

3. Request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and the state where you are currently employed. If these states do not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the California Board of Registered Nursing or Board of Vocational Nursing.

4. RNs only- Submit transcripts.

• For graduating California RN students: California Board-approved registered nursing programs will submit your transcripts to the Board electronically upon completion of your program.
• For out-of-state nursing programs: If you attended an RN nursing program in another State, you may have your transcripts sent to our Board electronically from a certified third-party electronic transcripts vendor such as Parchment, National Student Clearinghouse, or directly from your school. Electronic transcripts must be sent to brn.etranscripts@dca.ca.gov.
• International nursing programs: If you attended a nursing program in another country, you must have your official transcripts sent to the Board by mail.

5. LPNs only- Submit proof of 12th-grade education.All applicants must provide proof of 12th-grade education or its equivalent. A high school diploma or GED certificate is acceptable.

6. Documents and/or letters explaining prior convictions or disciplinary action and attesting to your rehabilitation (if applicable).

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Temporary License

1. You may apply for a temporary RN or LPN license at the same time that you apply for licensure by endorsement or at any time prior to the issuance of a permanent registered nursing license. 

2. A temporary license is valid for a period of six months, allowing an applicant to work pending issuance of a permanent license.

3. The Board must receive and process fingerprint results from the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) before a temporary license is issued. There may be a delay if the application or fingerprint results indicate a prior conviction(s) or other basis for denial.