Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Before beginning the endorsement license process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Virginia Board of Nursing. You should have a current LPN license issued by another state or territory of the United States, completed an approved nursing education program, and meet all requirements for initial licensure in Virginia. Make sure to review the Virginia Board of Nursing's official website [link: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/] to understand the specific requirements.
Step 2: Submit Application Online
To initiate the endorsement license process, visit the Virginia Department of Health Professions' Online Licensing portal [link: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/]. Create an account and submit your application for endorsement as an LPN. Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information to avoid any delays.
Step 3: Request Verification of Your Current License
Contact the licensing authority of the state or territory where you hold your current LPN license and request them to provide verification directly to the Virginia Board of Nursing. Visit [link: https://www.ncsbn.org/nursys.htm] for information about Nursys, a national database that facilitates license verification for nurses. Nursys is a useful resource to streamline the verification process for multiple states.
Step 4: Complete Jurisprudence Exam
LPNs seeking endorsement in Virginia are required to complete a Jurisprudence Exam. This exam ensures your understanding of Virginia's laws and regulations related to nursing practice. The Virginia Board of Nursing provides relevant study materials on their website [link: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/], along with information on scheduling and exam fees.
Step 5: Obtain Fingerprint-Based Criminal Background Check
As part of the endorsement process, LPNs must undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check. You can find information on how to complete this process on the Virginia Board of Nursing's website. Additionally, the Virginia Department of State Police provides relevant instructions and access to necessary forms [link: https://www.vsp.virginia.gov/].
Step 6: Pay Application and Licensing Fees
The endorsement license process requires the payment of certain fees, including application and licensing fees. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fee amounts and payment methods, please refer to the Virginia Department of Health Professions' Fee Schedule [link: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/] or contact them directly.
Step 7: Await Application Review
After completing all necessary steps, the Virginia Board of Nursing will review your endorsement application. The processing time may vary, so it is advisable to regularly check the status of your application through the Online Licensing portal [link: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/]. Once approved, you will be issued your LPN endorsement license to practice in Virginia.
Conclusion
Congratulations on taking the first step towards obtaining your Licensed Professional Nurse endorsement license in Virginia! TLC Travel Staff is here to support you throughout this process. Remember to periodically check the official websites mentioned in this guide for any updates or changes to the procedures. We wish you the best of luck in your nursing career!