NCLEX in Texas: Requirements, Process, & Tips for Success

The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is the standardized test that every nursing graduate must pass to become a licensed nurse in the United States. In Texas, as in other states, passing the NCLEX is required to obtain a registered nurse (RN) or practical nurse (PN) license.

There are two versions of the exam:

• NCLEX-RN: For those pursuing licensure as a Registered Nurse.

• NCLEX-PN: For graduates of practical/vocational nursing programs.

The NCLEX uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT). This means the exam adapts based on the test-taker’s performance. Each correct or incorrect response determines the difficulty of the next question. The goal is to measure the minimum competency required for safe nursing practice.

NCLEX Format Overview

• Number of questions: Between 85 and 150 (for RN, under the 2023 Next Generation NCLEX model).

• Time limit: Up to 5 hours.

• Content areas: Safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.

In Texas, the NCLEX is overseen by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON), which works closely with Pearson VUE, the official NCLEX testing provider.

NCLEX Requirements in Texas

The Texas Board of Nursing sets specific eligibility criteria for candidates wishing to sit for the NCLEX. These requirements apply to both U.S.-educated and international graduates.

General Requirements

• Completion of an approved nursing education program (RN or PN).

• Application for licensure by examination through the Texas BON.

• Payment of state and exam fees.

• Fingerprinting and criminal background check.

International Graduate Requirements

For foreign-educated nurses, additional steps include:

• Credential evaluation through CGFNS or CES (Credentials Evaluation Service).

• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS, unless nursing education was in English).

• Submission of all transcripts and supporting documents to the Texas BON.

Key Point: International nurses must complete credential verification before being authorized to take the NCLEX in Texas.

How to Apply for the NCLEX in Texas

The application process in Texas involves two key steps: applying to the Texas Board of Nursing and registering with Pearson VUE.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Apply with Texas BON – Complete the online application for licensure by examination.

2. Submit fees – Pay the Texas BON application fee (approx. $100) plus a criminal background check fee.

3. Fingerprinting – Schedule electronic fingerprinting for the background check.

4. Pearson VUE registration – Create an account at Pearson VUE and pay the NCLEX exam fee ($200).

5. Authorization to Test (ATT) – Once your application is approved, the Texas BON issues an ATT through Pearson VUE.

6. Schedule the exam – Choose a convenient testing center in Texas.

NCLEX Exam Centers in Texas

Texas offers multiple Pearson VUE test centers for NCLEX candidates. Common locations include:

• Houston

• Dallas

• Austin

• San Antonio

• El Paso

• Lubbock

Candidates should schedule early to secure their preferred location, especially during peak graduation seasons (May–July).

Exam Day Expectations

• Bring two forms of valid ID.

• Arrive 30 minutes early.

• Biometric verification (palm scan and photograph) will be required.

• No personal items are allowed in the testing room.

NCLEX Pass Rates in Texas

The NCLEX pass rate in Texas is a key indicator of how well nursing programs prepare their students. According to the Texas Board of Nursing NCLEX results, most accredited nursing schools in the state report pass rates higher than the national average.

Average NCLEX Pass Rates in Texas

These numbers may vary year by year, but overall, NCLEX Texas pass rates remain among the highest in the country.

Factors influencing success include:

• Rigorous nursing school curricula.

• Access to review courses and study resources.

• Strong clinical practice opportunities.

NCLEX Preparation in Texas

Preparing for the NCLEX is critical, and Texas nursing students have access to a wide range of resources.

Popular Prep Options

Nexus Nursing Institute provides comprehensive audio lessons designed to support nursing students in mastering core subjects. Topics include Anxiety & Phobias, Mental Health, Cardio, Intrapartum Nursing, Maternity/OB, Pediatrics, Neuro, Vision, Musculoskeletal, Endocrine, Fundamentals of Nursing, Pharmacology, and Medical-Surgical Nursing specialties such as Respiratory and Gastrointestinal systems. These lessons make complex concepts easier to understand and are ideal for exam preparation and clinical practice.

Study Strategies

• Create a structured study schedule 8–12 weeks before the exam.

• Focus on weak content areas identified during practice exams.

• Use test-taking strategies specific to Next Generation NCLEX case-based questions.

Many nursing programs in Texas integrate NCLEX prep into the final semester, giving students a built-in review before graduation.

Tips for International Nursing Students Taking NCLEX in Texas

Texas has a large population of international nurses, making it one of the most common states for foreign-educated applicants.

Key Steps for International Nurses

• Apply to Texas BON for licensure by examination.

• Submit educational credentials for verification (CGFNS or CES).

• Provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or exemption).

• Complete background check and fingerprinting.

Common challenges include longer processing times for document verification and navigating U.S. testing procedures. However, once approved, international nurses follow the same exam process as U.S. graduates.

What Happens After You Pass the NCLEX in Texas

Once you pass, the Texas Board of Nursing will issue your nursing license.

After Passing the NCLEX

• Your name will appear in the Texas BON online verification system.

• A license card is issued electronically.

• You can apply for nursing jobs immediately after licensure is confirmed.

Texas offers abundant opportunities for new nurses, especially in urban centers like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. With the state’s growing healthcare system, NCLEX passers can quickly find positions in hospitals, clinics, and specialty care units.

What If You Fail the NCLEX in Texas?

Failing the NCLEX can be discouraging, but Texas provides options for retesting.

Retake Policy

• You may retake the NCLEX after 45 days.

• Candidates are allowed up to 8 attempts in one year.

• There is no lifetime limit on how many times you can take the NCLEX in Texas, as long as you continue to meet eligibility requirements.

You can retest multiple times, with an upper limit of 8 attempts per year.

Strategies After Failing

• Request a Candidate Performance Report (CPR) from Pearson VUE to identify weak areas.

• Focus on targeted prep courses for low-scoring sections.

• Join peer study groups or mentoring programs in Texas.

Costs of Taking the NCLEX in Texas

Taking the NCLEX involves several expenses:

While the upfront cost may seem high, many hospitals in Texas offer reimbursement programs for new hires who recently passed the NCLEX.

Final Comments

For nursing graduates, the NCLEX in Texas is the final step toward a rewarding career in healthcare. With consistently high NCLEX Texas pass rates, comprehensive preparation resources, and support from the Texas Board of Nursing, students are well-positioned for success.

Key takeaways include:

• Understanding the application and eligibility requirements through the Texas BON.

• Preparing effectively with review courses and practice exams.

• Knowing that you can take the NCLEX multiple times in Texas (up to 8 attempts annually).

• Leveraging Texas’ strong job market once licensed.

By planning ahead, using the right resources, and staying consistent in preparation, nursing students in Texas can approach the NCLEX with confidence and join one of the fastest-growing healthcare workforces in the country.