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.
Nurses who fail to meet the outlined endorsement application requirements must retake the NCLEX examination to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida.
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.
Implications of the New NCLEX Retake Requirement:
The updated policy is particularly significant for:
Nurses who let their licenses lapse and wish to return to active practice.
Nurses from other states with gaps in eligibility under the MOBILE Endorsement pathway.
These 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.