West Virginia Nurse Licensing Guide

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West Virginia Nurse License Overview

eNLC:

Yes

Walk-Through:

No

Temp License:

Yes

Nursys:

Yes

P:

(304) 744-0900

Fees

Endorsement Application: RN: $125.00, LPN: $50.00

Temporary permit: RNs: No extra charge.

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How long does it take to get a West Virginia Nursing License?

Permanent License

Approximately 14 business days upon receipt of all required materials.

Temporary License

Approximately 5-7 business days upon receipt of all required materials.

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WV License Renewal

Renewal cadence: ‍
- RNS: Every 2 years. Licenses are due to be renewed by October 31st in even years. The renewal period begins September 1st.
- Have a passing score on the NLCEX or SBTPE
- LPNs: Every 2 years. Contact the LPN BON or consult your current WV LPN license to see when your license will expire.

Renewal fee:
- RNs: $90.00
- LPNs:

Required contact hours:
- RNs: 12 hours of continuing education are due for each 2-year renewal period. Click here for approved courses through CE Broker.
- LPNs: 24 contact hours are required per 2-year renewal period.

Important Things to Know about West Virginia Nurse Licenses

West Virginia has separate BONs for RNs and LPNs. You can find the RN BON here and the LPN BON here.
Licensure and renewal can only be completed through the portal. Paper applications are not accepted.
If you answered "yes" to any eligibility questions, additional documentation may be required.
You can view the West Virginia RN BON’s FAQ section here.
RNs can check the status of their license application here.
LPNs can check the status of their licensure application here.

WV Licensure by Endorsement

Process

Permanent License

Submit an application online and pay the fee. RNs can begin their online application here, and LPNs can begin their online application here.
You will need an SSN for both RN and LPN applications.
Both RNs and LPNs need to have graduated from a board-approved nursing program. The BON may require transcripts for your application.
Both RNs and LPNs need to request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and the state where you are currently employed. If these states do not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the BON.
Provide a background check with fingerprints. Instructions for RN fingerprinting and background checks can be found here. Instructions for LPN fingerprinting and background checks can be found here.

Temporary License

If you wish to be issued a provisional license, please indicate this on your RN application. The WV BON may issue a temporary license once all required documents are received, with the exception of the results of your background check.
Temporary licenses are not available for LPNs in West Virginia at this time.

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