How To Be a Licensed Practical Nurse in Canada (Except ON & BC)

PATHWAY FOR INTERNATIONALLY EDUCATED NURSES

STEP 1: APPLY TO NNAS

Internationally educated nurses (IENs) often begin by submitting their credentials to the National Nursing Assessment Services (NNAS) for assessment. The NNAS evaluates educational credentials and provides a report to the nursing regulatory bodies in Canadian provinces and territories.

STEP 2: APPLICATION TO the PROVINCIAL REGULATORY BODY: Following the NNAS assessment, IENs submit an application to the regulatory body (such as the College of Nursing Nova Scotia) in the province or territory where they intend to practice. Each regulatory body may have specific requirements and processes for licensure.

STEP 3: WRITE THE BOARD EXAM (WE HELP YOU HERE)

Once deemed eligible, IENs take the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) as part of the licensing process.

STEP 4: COMPLETE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND GET LICENSED 

Complete the English proficiency test, police clearance, evidence of practice requirement, and jurisprudence exam to get licensed as a Registered Nurse in Canada.

PATHWAY FOR CANADIAN-EDUCATED NURSES

STEP 1: APPLY TO PROVINCIAL REGULATORY BODY

• Submit an application to the nursing regulatory body in the province or territory where you plan to work. Each province has its own regulatory body. For Nova Scotia, it is the College Of Nursing Nova Scotia.

STEP 2: WRITE THE BOARD EXAM

Prepare for and write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE), Which is a standardized exam used in Certain Provinces of Canada for Practical Nurse Licensure.

STEP 3: MEET ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Fulfill any additional requirements set by the provincial regulatory body, which may include criminal background checks and Jurisprudence tests.

STEP 4: RECEIVE LICENSURE

• Once you successfully pass the CPNRE  and meet all requirements, you will receive your licensed Practical Nurse license from the provincial regulatory body, allowing you to practice as a licensed Practical Nurse in that province of Canada.

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