How to Obtain an Endorsement License for Licensed Professional Nurse in Texas

An endorsement license allows LPNs licensed in another state to practice nursing in Texas without repeating the entire licensing process. This process involves verifying your existing license and meeting specific requirements set by the Texas Board of Nursing (TBON).

Before initiating the endorsement process, ensure you meet the following requirements:

- Hold a current, active, and unencumbered LPN license in another US state or jurisdiction.
- Have completed an approved nursing education program equivalent to the requirements in Texas.
- Be of good moral character with no prior disciplinary actions.

To begin your endorsement application, gather the following documents:

- Completed application form from the TBON website (**link**: [TBON Application Forms](https://www.bon.texas.gov/forms_nursingeducation.asp))
- Application fee (refer to the TBON website for current fee information)
- Verification of original nursing education program (transcripts)
- Verification of licensure from your current state of licensure (to be sent directly to the TBON from the state)

As part of the endorsement process, all LPN applicants must undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Please visit the Department of Public Safety (DPS) website to schedule an appointment and obtain further information regarding this requirement (**link**: [Texas DPS Fingerprint Services](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/crime-records/service-channels/fingerprints-services)).

If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate proficiency by achieving satisfactory scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). More information about English language proficiency requirements can be found on the TBON's website (**link**: [TBON English Proficiency Criteria](https://www.bon.texas.gov/pdfs/forms_pdfs/englishprof.pdf)).

Carefully complete and submit the required application form, along with the supporting documents and fees, to the TBON. Double-check all information for accuracy and ensure that all documentation is properly notarized where required.

To keep track of your application's progress, the TBON provides an online tracking system. You can access it through their website and monitor the status of your endorsement application (**link**: [TBON Application Status Tracker](https://www.bon.texas.gov/aptr/default.asp)).

For additional information and resources, you can explore the following websites:

- Texas Board of Nursing Official Website: [https://www.bon.texas.gov](https://www.bon.texas.gov)
- Texas Board of Nursing Application Forms: [https://www.bon.texas.gov/forms_nursingeducation.asp](https://www.bon.texas.gov/forms_nursingeducation.asp)
- Texas Department of Public Safety Fingerprint Services: [https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/crime-records/service-channels/fingerprints-services](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/crime-records/service-channels/fingerprints-services)

Remember, the licensing requirements and processes may change over time, so always refer to the official websites for the most up-to-date information.