NCLEX in Louisiana: four attempts, four years and a separate board for practical nurses
Louisiana’s rules say RN applicants must pass the NCLEX-RN within four attempts and within four years of graduation. Registered nurses are licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, while practical nurses go through a separate board with its own process.
Last checked October 2026. Based on the Louisiana Administrative Code for RN licensure by examination and third-party summaries of the Board’s process. Fees are as reported, so confirm them in the Nurse Portal.
The path for a new graduate
As graduation approaches, apply through the Board's Nurse Portal and pay the application fee. The rule requires a recommendation from your school's director of nursing.
Download the criminal background check forms after completing your application, pay the CBC fee, and mail the completed packet and affidavit to the Board.
Register and pay $200 by credit, debit or prepaid card.
Once the Board confirms eligibility, Pearson VUE sends your ATT. For the practical nurse board, results are posted through its Nurse Portal message center.
Louisiana-specific rules
- Four attempts, four years. The Louisiana Administrative Code says applicants for licensure by examination must pass within four attempts and within four years of graduation.
- English proficiency. Graduates of foreign programs need proof of English proficiency. Foreign graduates other than Canadian ones also need evidence of successful completion of a foreign graduate credential exam, per the rule’s wording.
- Temporary permit. Reports say a 90-day temporary permit can be requested on the online application for about $100 more.
Common questions
Is the practical nurse process different?
The Louisiana State Practical Nurse Examiners board licenses practical nurses and publishes its own steps. Its page says a new application, fee and registration with Pearson VUE are required for each testing attempt.
How does residence affect my license?
The practical nurse board’s steps say you may be eligible for a compact license if Louisiana is your legal state of residence, for example through your driver’s license, voter registration or tax filing, and otherwise for a single-state license.