📝 California RN License Process for International Nurses – 2025 Full Guide
Author: Shincy George | Nursing Manthra
Are you an internationally educated nurse dreaming of working in California, USA? You’ve come to the right place. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step California RN licensing process for 2025 – including important updates, requirements, costs, and exam tips.
Let’s dive in!
🔐 Social Security Number (SSN): The First and Most Crucial Step
To apply for RN licensure in California, you must have either a:
✅ Social Security Number (SSN)
or
✅ Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
If you’re already in the U.S., you can apply directly to the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). But if you’re outside the U.S. and don’t have an SSN, you cannot proceed with the California RN application.
👉 Tip: You can apply for the NCLEX-RN through a state like New York, pass the exam, and once you have your SSN, endorse your license to California.
📍 U.S. States That Require SSN for RN Licensure
The following states require an SSN or ITIN to begin the licensing process:
- California
- Florida
- Arizona
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- Washington
California is also a non-compact state, which means it does not accept multi-state licenses.
📚 Step-by-Step California RN Licensing Process for IENs
1️⃣ Credential Evaluation
Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) must submit transcripts to a BRN-approved credentialing agency, like CGFNS. The evaluation will determine if your education is comparable to U.S. nursing standards.
✅ Transcripts must be:
- Sent directly from your school
- In both original language and English
- Accompanied by a Breakdown of Educational Program form
2️⃣ English Proficiency
If your nursing education was not in English, you’ll need to take:
- TOEFL or
- IELTS
If your entire program was conducted in English, this requirement may be waived.
3️⃣ Background Check & Fingerprinting
A criminal background check is mandatory.
🔍 Two options:
- Live Scan (within California) – faster, more efficient
- Fingerprint card (for out-of-state or international applicants) – costs around $49 USD
💻 Registering with the BREEZE Portal
All documentation must be submitted via California’s official portal: BREEZE
Through BREEZE, you will:
- Create your application profile
- Upload documents
- Pay fees
- Track your application status
🧾 Fees:
- International Graduate Application: $750 USD
- Interim Permit (Optional): $100 USD
🧪 NCLEX-RN Examination Details
You cannot schedule the NCLEX until you receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the Board.
💰 Exam Fees:
- NCSBN Registration: $220 USD
- Pearson VUE Testing: $170 USD
- Optional Quick Results: $7.95 USD
📝 Question Types Include:
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Charts
- Fill-in-the-Blanks
- Drag and Drop
- Hotspot Questions
🎯 Need help? Nursing Manthra offers NCLEX video classes, study materials, and MCQ practice sets.
📲 Contact us on WhatsApp to enroll.
🪪 License Verification and Issuance
Before issuing your license, the BRN will:
- Verify any existing RN licenses in other jurisdictions
- Review your complete application
📅 Processing may take several months, so apply early and ensure your documents are complete and accurate.
⚠️ Common Deficiencies & Course Corrections
If your transcript lacks training in areas like:
- Obstetrics
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatric Nursing
➡️ You’ll be required to complete make-up courses in a California Board-approved nursing program.
❌ What if You Fail the NCLEX?
If you don’t pass:
- You must wait 90 days to retake
- You’ll receive a Performance Report to guide your next attempt
- We recommend refresher courses or guided coaching for better results
💼 Alternative Careers While You Wait
While preparing for your RN license, consider:
✅ CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant):
- Requires diploma, translated transcripts, and SSN
- Pays around $12/hour
- Helps build U.S. clinical experience
✅ Healthcare Interpreter:
- Bilingual? Apply as a hospital interpreter
- Flexible entry without a license, good exposure to healthcare settings
🔁 License Endorsement to California (If You Hold Another State License
If you’ve already passed the NCLEX and hold an active license in another U.S. state, you can apply for license endorsement to California. However, SSN is still required.
📌 Final Checklist for California RN License
✅ SSN or ITIN
✅ CGFNS Credential Evaluation
✅ Transcripts + Breakdown Form
✅ English Proficiency Proof
✅ Fingerprinting
✅ BREEZE Registration
✅ NCLEX-RN Exam
✅ License Verification
✅ Application Fees Paid
🤝 Need Help? Contact Nursing Manthra!
Nursing Manthra provides:
- NCLEX study materials & coaching
- CGFNS and BREEZE registration guidance
- Document support for international nurses
- Personalized consultation for U.S. licensing
📲 WhatsApp us today for assistance!
📣 Conclusion
Getting your California RN license as an internationally educated nurse is a detailed but achievable process if you follow the correct steps.
🎉 Ready to start your RN journey in California?
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💬 Have questions? Drop a comment or message us!
Wishing you success and a rewarding nursing career in the U.S.! 🇺🇸🩺
