Florida Licensure by Endorsement: Updated Requirements Effective October 9, 2024
The Florida Board of Nursing has implemented new legislative requirements for nurses seeking licensure in Florida through endorsement. These updates, effective as of October 9, 2024, introduce stricter measures to ensure competency and alignment with Florida’s standards.
The Board voted on December 6, 2024, to allow applicants who do not meet the active practice requirement to apply for licensure by examination and submit their previously taken passing examination scores..
What is the MOBILE Endorsement Pathway?
The MOBILE Endorsement pathway provides a streamlined process for qualified nurses holding active licenses from other states, territories, or the District of Columbia to gain licensure in Florida.
Eligibility Requirements Under Section 456.0145, Florida Statutes:
Active, Unencumbered License: Applicants must hold an active license in a profession with a similar scope of practice as determined by the Board of Nursing.
NCLEX Success: A passing score on the NCLEX examination is required.
Recent Practice Experience: Applicants must have actively practiced their profession for at least three of the past four years.
Clean Record: No reports in the National Practitioner Data Bank unless successfully appealed.
Disciplinary Free: The applicant must not be under investigation or disciplinary action in any jurisdiction or by the U.S. Department of Defense for reasons related to professional practice.
No Recent Disciplinary Action: No disciplinary actions within the five years prior to the application date.
Licensure Ineligibility Criteria: Refer to section 456.0145(2)(c), Florida Statutes, for details.
Electronic Fingerprinting: All applicants must submit fingerprints electronically using a Livescan service provider for a criminal history screening.
Key Points About Fingerprinting:
Electronic fingerprinting ensures thorough background checks through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse. Hard copy fingerprint cards are no longer accepted, and applicants must cover all associated costs.
Depending on the Boards review of your file, individuals may now be required to retake the NCLEX to demonstrate current competency and meet Florida’s rigorous licensure standards.
By introducing these updates, the Florida Board of Nursing aims to enhance patient safety and uphold high professional standards in the state’s healthcare system. Nurses planning to relocate to Florida or reenter the field should carefully review these new requirements to ensure compliance.
For detailed information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing’s website or consult section 456.0145, Florida Statutes.
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