How to Register for the NCLEX
Registering for the NCLEX is a multistep process, so it’s important to review how to register before getting started. Once you meet NCLEX eligibility requirements, you’ll apply for licensure with your nursing regulatory body (NRB) and register and pay fees for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE. NCLEX registration is official once you have received your Authorization to Test (ATT) which allows you to select an NCLEX test date. In this guide, we’ll break down the NCLEX registration process and answer frequently asked questions so you understand what to expect and avoid potential pitfalls.
[ READ NEXT: When Should I Take the NCLEX? ]
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
- NCLEX Registration Steps
- When should I register for the NCLEX?
- NCLEX Registration Fees 2026
- Can I change my NCLEX test date?
- How to Study for the NCLEX
NCLEX Registration Steps
You cannot register for an NCLEX test date until you receive your Authorization to Test. Your ATT is effectively your “ticket” to take the NCLEX. It’s the system’s way of verifying that your State Board of Nursing reviewed your transcripts and background and has officially cleared you to take the NCLEX. Keep reading to learn about the process to receive your ATT.
Step 1: Apply to your State Board of Nursing.
About four to six weeks before graduation, you should submit an application for licensure in the state where you intend to work and pay any associated application fees.
Step 2: Register with Pearson VUE.
Create an account with Pearson VUE (the company that administers the NCLEX) and pay the NCLEX registration fee.
Step 3: Complete background check and fingerprinting.
Most states require licensure candidates to complete a criminal background check before granting eligibility. We recommend completing this step as soon as your state allows as some background checks take several weeks to process.
Step 4: Graduate from an accredited nursing program and send transcripts.
Your State Nursing Board cannot make you eligible for the NCLEX until they have confirmation that you graduated from an accredited nursing program. After graduation, your nursing school must send your official transcripts to the Board.
Step 5: Eligibility certification.
Your State Board of Nursing reviews and matches your application, background check, transcripts, and Pearson VUE registration. If all requirements have been confirmed, your status changes to “eligible” in the Pearson VUE system.
Step 6: Receive your ATT email.
Once your State Board of Nursing deems you eligible, Pearson VUE automatically sends the Authorization to Test email. You can use this information to log into your Pearson VIE account and schedule your NCLEX date and testing location.
Step 7: Schedule your exam.
Log into your Pearson VUE account to find a date, time, and location to take the NCLEX.
NCLEX Registration Pitfalls
Because registering for the NCLEX is a multistep process, there are a few common pitfalls you should be aware of so you don’t delay your registration.
- Name matching: Ensure the name on your NCLEX registration matches the name on your ID. If you use a nickname or shortened version of the name, you will be turned away on test day.
- Spam filters: Your ATT for the NCLEX will be sent to your email. You can add Pearson to your safe-sender list or keep an eye on your spam folder as you await your authorization so you don’t miss this critical email.
- ATT expiration: Your ATT is valid for only 90 days. Do not wait until it is about to expire to register for your exam as testing centers may book up.
When should I register for the NCLEX?
Timing is crucial when it comes to the NCLEX. Registering too soon can lead to feeling pressured, while waiting too long might cause you to forget recently learned material or potentially delay a job start date. Generally, the ideal time to register for the NCLEX is during the last month of your nursing program.
NCLEX Registration Timeline
Use this recommended schedule to plan out your NCLEX registration timeline.
| Timing | Action |
| One month before graduation | -Apply for licensure -Request transcripts |
| Two weeks before graduation | -Register with Pearson VUE -Pay registration fee |
| After nursing school graduation | -Wait 2-4 weeks for your ATT -Take NCLEX as soon as you feel prepared (allow for 4-8 weeks of study) |
NCLEX Registration Fees 2026
Review the NCLEX fees for candidates seeking U.S. nursing licensure.
| NCLEX Fee Type | Fee Amount (USD) |
| Standard Registration Fee | $200 |
| Additional International Scheduling Fee | $150 |
| NRB Change After Registration Fee | $50 |
| Licensure/Registration Fee | Contact Your NRB |
Source: NCLEX
Can I change my NCLEX test date?
To change your NCLEX test date, you must reschedule at least 24 hours (one full business day) before your scheduled appointment to avoid forfeiting the $200 registration fee. The most efficient way to do this is by logging into your account on the Pearson VUE website, navigating to “Upcoming Appointments,” and selecting the “Reschedule” option. You will be able to browse available dates and locations, but you must ensure the new date falls within the validity period of your Authorization to Test (ATT), as no extensions are granted.
Once you select a new NCLEX test date, proceed through all the prompts until you reach the final confirmation screen; you should receive a new confirmation email immediately if the test change was successful. If you are rescheduling an appointment set for a Monday or a day following a holiday, you must make the change by the preceding Friday or business day to stay within the required testing window. If you miss this deadline or fail to show up, you will be required to re-register and pay the NCLEX exam fee again once your current ATT expires.
How to Study for the NCLEX
Kaplan offers a wide variety of NCLEX prep resources, from full-length NCLEX review courses to realistic Qbanks. Jumpstart your prep with our free NCLEX resources:
- Free NCLEX Question of the Day: Receive a daily email with a practice question and a detailed answer explanation.
- Free NCLEX Practice Test: Take a shortened version of the NCLEX to give you a baseline score.
- NCLEX Content + Practice Pack Free Trial: Get 7 days of free NCLEX review course access plus 50 Qbank questions and more.
- NCLEX Qbank Free Trial: Get 7 days of free access to our test-like NCLEX questions.
Written by Kaplan experts, reviewed by Dr. Christi Doherty DNP, RNC-OB, CNE, CHSE, CDP. Dr. Doherty is the Executive Director of Nursing & i-Human Patients at Kaplan North America. She is a skilled researcher, valued professor of nursing, experienced clinical nurse, and designer of virtual simulations. Dr. Doherty has earned certifications in nursing education, healthcare simulation education, diversity, and inpatient obstetrics.
