In order to register for the NCLEX RN exam, a registered nursing candidate should apply to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing for licensure eligibility. Once your eligibility has been confirmed the board will provide an Authorization to Test (ATT) number. At the same time the candidate should register with Pearson VUE, the contracted test provider.
There are three ways to register with Pearson VUE: online, by telephone, or by mail. The cost of the exam is $200 and can be paid using a credit or debit card (VISA, MasterCard, or American Express). It is also possible to pay using a money order, cashier’s check, or certified check.
ATT Validity Dates
- Each ATT letter is valid for a period of time specified by the board of nursing (varies from 60 days to 365 days; however, the average length of an ATT is 90 days).
- Once the board of nursing declares a candidate eligible to test and the ATT letter is issued, a candidate must test within the validity dates of their ATT letter.
Important. Test centres can fill up quickly. Do not wait until the ATT is going to expire shortly. If you do not take the test within the specified time you will have to reregister and pay the $200 once more
