Become a Nurse in Texas: Requirements, Licensing, and Employment Outlook
- Becoming a Nurse in Texas
- Texas Board of Nursing
- Getting Your License in Texas
- Nurse Salary in Texas
- Texas Nurse Resources
- Become a Nurse in Texas: FAQ
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: joe daniel price / Getty ImagesWith more than 250,000 nurses, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Texas is ranked second in the nation in total nurse employment.
At the same time, like much of the rest of the country, Texas is experiencing a serious statewide nurse shortage. In fact, Texas has the fifth-worst ratio of nurse employment compared to the national average, BLS data shows.
This is a sobering reality for healthcare providers in the Lone Star State, but it might also translate to plentiful opportunities for nurses in all stages of their careers.
If you are interested in learning how to become a registered nurse (RN) in Texas, follow this step-by-step resource for everything you need to know, including how to prepare for and select the best education program for you, apply for your nursing license, and pursue your dream career.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How to Become a Nurse in Texas
Becoming a nurse in Texas begins with choosing an educational path. For example, future nursing professionals may decide to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) for a faster and more affordable route into nursing when compared with RNs. LPN programs can take just 15-18 months to complete.
LPNs can later apply for bridge programs, such as LPN-to-RN programs, designed to smooth their transition to RN status.
Earning an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school is another avenue toward a fulfilling nursing career, as either degree leads to RN licensure if successfully completed. Getting licensed as a nurse also requires passing nursing board exams, background checks, and staying on top of continuing education requirements.
- 1
Apply to an ADN or a BSN Degree Program
ADN and BSN nursing programs typically require a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0, particularly in science and math courses, and standardized test scores. An essay, letters of recommendation, an interview, and a background check are also common requirements.
An ADN degree takes approximately two years, while a BSN program takes about four years.
- 2
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam to Receive RN Licensure
After graduation, nursing students take the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure as a nurse. Students must apply to the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) for authorization to take the exam.
Once the BON confirms your degree, you must ensure you’ve fulfilled all other requirements and then pay all applicable fees. Once passing the board exam, you will receive your nursing license.
- 3
Apply for Jobs at Local Hospitals
According to a 2022 Texas economy review, 41.1% of nurses work in hospitals. New graduate nurses can choose hospital positions based on the facility itself and the kind of position, benefits, and job requirements they offer.
Most hospitals use online portals for applicants. Expect to submit your resume, a cover letter, license information, and references online.
- 4
Advance Your Career With a Graduate Degree or Certification
As you gain experience, increase your career options by seeking advanced degrees and certifications. A master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) prepares you to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
With either an MSN or APRN degree, nurses can become a nurse practitioner (NP). According to ZipRecruiter, Texas NPs reported an average annual salary of $118,198, while the national average for NPs, according to BLS, is $128,490.
The APRN degree can lead to even more specialized and lucrative careers, such as nurse-midwife or certified registered nurse anesthetist.
NPs in Texas have restricted practice authority, which essentially means that NPs must work in collaboration or under the supervision of a medical doctor. Check with the BON for more details or updates.
- 5
Maintain and Renew Licensure and Certifications.
Texas nurses renew their licenses every two years. Renewal requires 20 nurse continuing education (CE) hours.
Texas Board of Nursing
The Texas BON is committed to ensuring that licensed nurses in Texas are competent and prepared to provide safe, high-quality care. The board is responsible for licensing nurses at all levels; approving nurse education programs and nursing schools in Texas; and enforcing rules, regulations, and standards of practice related to nursing and nursing education.
How to Get Your Nursing License in Texas
All nurses seeking to work in Texas must pass the BON jurisprudence exam. New nurses must pass this exam before taking the national NCLEX-RN exam. Texas also maintains strict eligibility requirements; all nurses must submit fingerprints and pass background checks.
Licensure for New Nurses
Texas defines a new nurse as anyone who has not previously held an RN license. Individuals who have recently completed a nursing degree and have not yet taken the NCLEX-RN exam fall into this category. Getting a license to practice involves completing the Texas Board of Nursing requirements, which are detailed below.
RN Licensure Eligibility Requirements
To be licensed as an RN in Texas, you must earn an ADN, or BSN. LVN-to-BSN bridge programs in Texas are accepted.
Steps to Apply for an RN License
The Texas RN licensing process begins while you are still in nursing school and is done online. The only exception is if you answer “yes” to any of the questions related to your criminal background that could affect license eligibility. In that case, you might need to submit a paper application.
- At least 30 days before graduation, submit an online examination application in the Texas Nurse Portal for authorization to take the NCLEX-RN.
- Submit the application for fingerprinting and a background check and an application to take the Texas nursing jurisprudence exam.
- Register with Pearson Vue to take the NCLEX-RN exam. You cannot take the exam until the BON grants authorization to test (ATT). ATT is granted once your nursing school submits a graduation affidavit and you pass the nursing jurisprudence exam. You may take the jurisprudence exam 15 days after you register.
- Take the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Upon passing the exam, you will be granted a certificate and may complete an online verification to receive proof of licensure.
All fees are paid when you submit your online applications. License processing time currently takes 15-20 days once all paperwork and exams are complete.
Licensure for Nurses From a Different State
Nurses who have a license from a different state can practice in Texas once they meet the BON requirements. Provided that you have an active license and have passed your nursing exams, you can practice nursing in your new home within a few weeks. Follow the steps below to get your Texas RN license.
Steps to Apply for an RN License
If you have an RN license from another state, you can practice in Texas without having to obtain an additional license. Texas is a member of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), meaning that if you have a license from another eNLC state, you can practice in Texas with compact privilege. However, eNLC nurses must still overview the Texas Nursing Practice Act to uphold current safety laws in Texas.
Those without a multistate license can still practice in Texas by earning licensure through endorsement. Out-of-state nurses who have a degree from an approved nursing program, passed the NCLEX-RN, and worked in nursing within the previous four years are eligible.
- Complete the nurse endorsement online application found on the Texas Nurse Portal on the BON website. This includes an authorization for fingerprinting and a background check.
- Take and pass the nursing jurisprudence exam.
- Submit licensure verification for all other states where you hold or have ever held a nursing license. Some states use Nursys. If your state does not use Nursys, you may request verification from your state licensing board using the BON verification licensure form.
Texas nurses renew their licensure every two years and must complete 20 contact hours of CE.
Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in Texas
According to ZipRecruiter, the annual mean wage for nurses in Texas is $83,839, while the national average, according to BLS, is $80,010.
Job opportunities for nurses in Texas are expected to increase. Nurse supply and demand projections between 2015 and 2030 show an increase of 57%.
The highest-paying metro areas for Texas nurses are listed in the chart below. Perhaps not coincidentally, many of the state’s best hospitals are also located in these areas.
| Rank | Metropolitan Area | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Austin-Round Rock, TX | $95,150 |
| 2 | Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | $94,390 |
| 3 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $94,240 |
| 4 | San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $88,880 |
| 5 | Midland, TX | $86,400 |
Best Hospitals to Work at in Texas
Every year, U.S. News & World Report ranks hospitals nationwide based on their delivery of high-quality general and specialty healthcare. Factors that go into ranking include patient outcomes and experiences, the number of patients treated, nursing staff, and transparency.
We pulled the top five best Texas hospitals to determine the best places for nurses to work in Texas. All of these hospitals offer exceptional opportunities for nurses in terms of work environment and opportunities for growth.
1. Houston Methodist Hospital
Houston Methodist Hospital is one of the nation’s best in terms of patient safety and is nationally ranked in more than 11 specialties, including cancer care and cardiology. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) awarded the facility with Magnet accreditation as a testament to its quality of nursing care.
2. UT Southwestern Medical Center
UT Southwestern is nationally recognized in 17 specialty areas such as cardiology and neurology. With more than 3,400 nurses on staff, the hospital has achieved ANCC Magnet status in recognition of its excellent care and exceptional work environment.
3. Baylor University Medical Center
Nationally ranked for gastroenterology and gynecology, this Dallas hospital is an ANCC Magnet hospital. Nurses here report high job satisfaction and autonomy in their practice.
4. Baylor St. Lukes Medical Center
One of the nations top hospitals for cancer and cardiac care, Baylor St. Lukes is also an ANCC Magnet hospital for its first-rate nursing care. Nurses are encouraged to grow their careers here with nurse leadership opportunities, while recent graduates can apply to the nurse residency program.
5. Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center
The teaching hospital for the University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Memorial Hermann is a level 1 trauma center and recognized for excellence in several practice areas. It is also an ANCC Magnet hospital. Nurses receive quality support and benefit from opportunities for professional growth and development.
Resources for Nurses in Texas
Texas Nurses Association
The largest and oldest nursing association in Texas, the TNA advocates for the advancement of the nursing profession. As part of the American Nurses Association, it is not a union or regulatory agency but rather a voice for nurses in Texas. Membership is open to licensed RNs. Benefits include opportunities to serve on committees, CNE courses, discounts, and a job board.
Texas Board of Nursing CNE Course Catalog
The BON offers a selection of workshops, all approved for CNE credit toward license renewal. Many of the workshops are self-paced, although some are delivered via online webinars. The BON also offers a prep course for the required nursing jurisprudence exam. This course does not award CNE or apply toward license renewal.
Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses
This program supports nurses with mental health or substance misuse disorders, allowing nurses to get the help they might need. Through the peer assistance program, nurses can continue practicing safely through early identification, support, accountability, and advocacy. The program helps develop a treatment plan, which includes peer support from a volunteer advocate.
Texas Nurse Practitioners
TNP is devoted to advancing, supporting, and promoting NP roles and high-quality healthcare throughout the state of Texas. Membership is open to NPs and offers access to advocacy opportunities, continuing education resources, career services, practice resources, discounts, and networking opportunities.
Become a Nurse in Texas: Frequently Asked Questions
According to federal statistics, RNs in Texas make an average annual salary of $90,210.
