Licensing exams by profession

Your state board decides which exam it accepts and how to apply. Apply to the board first; for most exams, the board makes you eligible before you can schedule.

Nursing

• RNs: NCLEX-RN
• LPN/LVNs: NCLEX-PN

Both are developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. You need to have graduated from an approved program.

Nurse aides (CNAs)

Your state's competency exam, given after a state-approved training program. Passing puts you on the state nurse aide registry.

Dental hygienists

Most states require written and clinical examinations plus a degree from an accredited dental hygiene program. Check your state dental or dental hygiene board.

Respiratory therapists

The National Board for Respiratory Care awards the CRT and RRT credentials. Candidates typically start with the CRT exam.

Physical therapists

The National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Some states also require a law exam.

Occupational therapists

The NBCOT certification exam. Passing lets you use the title Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR).

Speech-language pathologists

The Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam, used for ASHA certification and by many state licensing boards.

Tips

• Apply to your board early. Background checks and transcripts take time.
• Use the official candidate guides from the exam's own website.
• After you pass, check that your license shows up on the board's lookup before you start work.