The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) sets the overall standards for how often and when you can retake the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX®), but each state's nursing regulatory body (NRB) adds its own specific guidelines. This guide breaks down what you need to know about NCLEX retake policies, costs, and registration steps so you can pass on your next attempt.
How to Register to Retake the NCLEX®
There are 4 steps needed to reschedule your NCLEX if your first attempt didn't go as planned, which follow:
Step 1: Notify Your Nursing Regulatory Body
Your NRB is your main point of contact during the retake process. Notify them that you want to retake the exam by submitting an NCLEX retake application with the required forms through their online portal. In 1-3 weeks, your NRB will confirm your eligibility. If you are not eligible, they will inform you of the next steps via email.
Step 2: Re-Register Through Pearson VUE
After your eligibility is confirmed, you'll re-register exactly like you did the first time. Register through the Pearson VUE portal or by phone. Select your exam type (RN or PN) and pay the $200 exam fee.
Step 3: Receive Your New ATT
You'll receive a new Authorization to Test (ATT) email confirming that you're cleared to test 1-3 weeks after you complete steps 1 and 2. Once received, you have a 90-day window to schedule your next exam date. If your ATT expires before you schedule or take your exam, return to step 1 and restart the process to receive a new one.
Step 4: Schedule Your Exam
With your ATT, select your NCLEX exam date online or by phone through Pearson VUE. Testing centers operate Monday through Saturday year-round, offering flexible scheduling.
You must select a test date at least 45 days after your last exam attempt. Schedule your test only after you've studied your candidate performance report (CPR) and have a study plan..
NCLEX Retake Policy and Requirements
Ensure you're still eligible to retake (you probably are). Here's a quick look at who can, and who can't, retake the NCLEX.
You Can Retake If:
- You've registered and waited at least 45 days since your last exam
- You're still within your state's eligibility window (usually 3 years from graduation)
- Your application and background check are current
You Can't Retake If:
- You've already reached the 8-attempt limit in 1 year
- Your state's eligibility window has expired
- You still need to complete the required remediation after multiple failed attempts
- Your exam results were invalidated for misconduct
NCLEX Retake Application Forms and Fees
Retaking the NCLEX usually costs $300-$600, depending on your state's rules. Some states charge an additional fee for reapplication or fingerprinting, while others may require new transcripts or proof of completion of a remediation course after a certain number of failed attempts.
| Fee | Applies Per Attempt | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Pearson VUE Exam Fee | Yes | $200 |
| State Board Application or Reapplication Fee | Yes | $50–$300 |
| Background Check and Fingerprinting | Sometimes, it may not be needed again if completed recently or still valid | $50–$100 |
| Official Transcript Fee | Sometimes, dependent on the state, it is only requested again if a long time has passed | $10–$20 |
| Remediation or Education Program Fee | Applies only if your state requires remedial coursework after multiple failed attempts | Varies by program |
Refund Policy
All NCLEX registration fees are non-refundable. This includes:
- Duplicate registrations (you can't have more than one active registration for the same exam)
- Failing to reschedule or cancel at least 24 business hours before your appointment
- Missing your exam appointment altogether
- International scheduling fees
State-Specific Retake Limits
Most states follow the national policy; up to 8 attempts each year, with at least 45 days between exams. Below are the NCLEX registration rules for some of the most populous states that have different timelines or eligibility requirements. If you don't see your state, check your NRB for details.
- Texas: Pass within 4 years of graduation, or complete a new nursing program
- Florida: After 3 failures, complete a state-approved remedial course
- New York: No limit on NCLEX attempts or time to pass; just reapply and pay fees to retake
- Pennsylvania: No limit on attempts, but you must maintain eligibility, background checks, and child abuse training
- Illinois: No limit on NCLEX attempts, but you must keep your application and background check up to date
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Retake Registration
Avoid delays or issues paying special attention to the following:
- Review state-specific requirements.
- Schedule your exam before your ATT expires.
- Ensure that your information is consistent across Pearson VUE, NRB, and government documents.
- Pay all reapplication and background check fees in full to avoid processing delays.
- Give yourself adequate study time using your candidate performance report as a guide.
- Check your inbox regularly for ATT details, scheduling confirmations, or other emails from Pearson VUE.
- Get new background checks or transcripts before issuing a new ATT.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I have to wait 45 days if I missed or canceled my NCLEX exam?
Usually not. Most states allow you to reapply and reschedule right away, but policies vary. Always confirm with your NRB and Pearson VUE before rebooking.
Does the 45-day waiting period apply if my ATT expires?
No. The 45-day rule only applies after taking the exam. If your ATT expires, just start over at Step 1 to get a new one.
Are NCLEX retake fees refundable?
No. NCLEX and reapplication fees are non-refundable, even if you miss or cancel your exam.
Can I schedule my exam right after paying the fees?
No. You must first receive your ATT before scheduling. The ATT confirms your eligibility and is usually valid for about 90 days.
What if my NCLEX ATT expires before I test?
You’ll need to reapply with your NRB and register again with Pearson VUE, paying all applicable fees before receiving a new ATT.
References
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) (n.d.). About U.S. Nursing Regulatory Bodies retrieved from https://www.ncsbn.org/nursing-regulation/about-nursing-regulatory-bodies.page
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (n.d.). Fees & payment.
https://www.nclex.com/fees-payment.page
