In the realm of professions offering diverse opportunities, steady income, and flexibility, nursing stands out. West Virginia, home to over 34,000 licensed registered nurses (RNs) as reported by the West Virginia Center for Nursing, is actively seeking skilled professionals to address the growing healthcare needs in the state.
This page serves as a comprehensive guide on the steps to become a nurse in West Virginia or transfer an existing license to kickstart your nursing career in West Virginia.

Educational Requirements: ADN or BSN

To embark on a nursing career in West Virginia, individuals can pursue various educational paths. The West Virginia RN Board mandates completion of an accredited nursing program and successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN).

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Degree Options: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Prospective RNs can attain their credentials through an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing), a two-year program, or opt for a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), a four-year program offering leadership opportunities and potentially higher pay. Passing the NCLEX-RN exam, a requirement for licensure in West Virginia, follows completion of an accredited ADN or BSN program, accompanied by a mandatory background check.

Job Outlook and Career Advancement

As experienced practitioners retire, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals to maintain healthcare standards in the state. With 38% of practitioners aged over 50, now presents an opportune time to consider a nursing career in West Virginia. This guide provides essential information to launch a successful nursing career in West Virginia.

Steps to Become a Nurse in West Virginia

1. Apply to an ADN or BSN Program: Choose an accredited West Virginia nursing school, either an ADN or BSN, with the latter providing a more comprehensive education and potential for career advancement.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: Successful completion of the NCLEX-RN is a requirement for obtaining RN licensure in West Virginia. Graduates must also undergo a background check.
3. Job Application: After passing the NCLEX-RN, graduates should create a professional resume highlighting their nursing skills and seek employment opportunities, focusing on nursing jobs in West Virginia, at local hospitals, with many educational institutions offering career planning assistance.
4. Career Advancement: RNs seeking career advancement often pursue a master’s degree or a doctorate, allowing them to become advanced practice registered nurses or specialize in areas such as nursing education, opening doors to higher nurse salary in West Virginia opportunities.
5. Licensure Renewal: RNs in West Virginia must complete at least 12 hours of continuing education for nurses in West Virginia (CE) credits during each renewal period, covering topics like drug diversion training and best practices for prescribing controlled substances for nurse practitioners (NPs).

The Complete Guide to West Virginia RN Licensing

RNs in West Virginia must obtain their license through the West Virginia RN Board, a regulatory body ensuring compliance with essential standards for public health, welfare, and safety. The board’s website offers resources such as lists of accredited programs, licensure costs, requirements, and test preparation materials.

Out-of-State Licensing and Renewal

For RNs with out-of-state licenses, the West Virginia RN Board facilitates the application process for a West Virginia nursing license through endorsement. The board’s site provides information on Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) West Virginia status, streamlining the transition for practitioners from certain states. Additionally, RNs can use the site to explore CE requirements for license renewal.

Steps to Obtain a West Virginia Nursing License

1. Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must earn an ADN or BSN from an accredited school, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and undergo a fingerprint background check.
2. Application Process: The application process involves online registration through the state’s nurse portal, registration with Pearson VUE for the NCLEX, and scheduling the exam upon approval.
3. Temporary Permits: Future RNs can apply for a temporary permit, valid for up to 20 days, allowing employment before graduation. However, failing the NCLEX forfeits the right to work with the temporary permit.

By following these steps and staying informed about the licensure for nurses in West Virginia process, aspiring nurses can navigate the requirements and launch a successful nursing career in West Virginia.

Licensure for Nurses From a Different State

West Virginia extends a warm welcome to out-of-state Registered Nurses (RNs) possessing an unencumbered license. It is crucial for nurses to recognize that the specific requirements may vary. The following section elaborates on the steps necessary to obtain endorsement for licensure.

Steps to Apply for an RN License

Commencing the application process involves determining whether their state participates in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), facilitating practitioners with a single multistate license. West Virginia became part of the NLC in 2018.

Prerequisites include establishing residency and maintaining an active, unencumbered license to initiate the application.

• Students begin the application process for a West Virginia nursing license by registering online through the state’s nurse portal.
• The NCLEX requires students to register with Pearson VUE and wait to receive confirmation from the West Virginia RN Board.
• Approved applicants can schedule their exam online or by phone.
• Future RNs can apply for a temporary permit to secure employment before graduating. Temporary permits last up to 20 days. Students who fail the NCLEX lose the right to work with the temporary permit.

How to Renew Your Nursing License in West Virginia

Renewing the license for West Virginia RNs necessitates completing continuing education for nurses in West Virginia coursework. Nurses must accumulate at least 12 hours of coursework, covering various topics such as drug diversion training, best practices for prescribing controlled substances for Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and mental health conditions commonly associated with veterans. The West Virginia RN Board acknowledges CE credits from providers accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Qualified applicants should log in to their nursing portal account to apply online. The West Virginia RN Board imposes a $67 renewal fee. RNs are required to renew their license between September 1 and October 3 to prevent a lapse. Those with a lapsed license must follow additional steps to reinstate their licensure.

Salary and Employment for Nurses in West Virginia

Presently, approximately 19,800 nurses are actively working in West Virginia. However, according to data from Projections Central, there is a projected 14.9% increase in employment opportunities for nurses through 2028, which surpasses the national estimate of 7%. It’s essential for nurses to consider the specific areas within West Virginia where they plan to practice, as earning potential may vary.

For example, Morgantown emerges as the top-paying metropolitan area, where nurses earn an average nurse salary in West Virginia of $67,640. Other notable areas include Huntington—Ashland, Charleston, Beckley, and Parkersburg—Vienna.

Top-Paying Metropolitan Areas for RNs

Source: BLS

Best Hospitals to Work as a Nurse in West Virginia

Registered Nurses can find employment in various healthcare facilities, including ambulatory healthcare services, government institutions, and schools. However, over 60% of RNs are employed in local, state, or private hospitals, as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The following list highlights information about the top five best hospitals in West Virginia for nurses, according to US News & World Report.

1. West Virginia University Hospitals: Located in Morgantown, this hospital holds national rankings in one adult specialty and one children’s specialty. WVU Hospital stands as the largest employer in the state.
2. Charleston Area Medical Center: This nonprofit teaching hospital attains a high-performing status for seven adult procedures. It employs nearly 8,000 healthcare professionals.
3. St. Mary’s Medical Center-Huntington: Based in Cabell County, this medical center employs over 2,600 healthcare workers. It specializes in cardiac care, cancer treatment, trauma, and neuroscience.
4. Beckley Appalachian Regional Healthcare Hospital: Beckley ARH is a nonprofit hospital with over 6,000 employees. Its mission is to promote the well-being of all people and enhance healthcare.
5. Beckley Veterans Affairs Medical Center: Serving over 38,000 veterans in southern West Virginia, this center has 30 general medical and surgical beds. It also includes a 50-bed community living center.

Resources for Nurses in West Virginia

Professional organizations and resources play a crucial role in helping RNs stay abreast of advancements in the field. These resources may encompass journals, professional development opportunities, and mentorship programs. Nursing organizations provide RNs access to networking events such as conferences, newsletters, and fellowships. Additionally, RNs can find valuable continuing education for nurses in West Virginia opportunities.

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1. West Virginia Nurses Association (WVNA):
   • The WVNA supports local nurses, aiming to strengthen the nursing profession.
   • Membership offers access to a vast network, job postings, conferences, and educational events.
   • Members also enjoy free or discounted subscriptions to The American Nurse, American Nurse Today, and the Online Journal of Issues in Nursing.
2. Future of Nursing West Virginia (FONWV):
   • The FONWV supports the nursing community in West Virginia by advancing educational opportunities, best practices, and leadership.
   • With 70 partnerships and over $500,000 in donations, the FONWV provides online courses, projects, and grant opportunities.
3. West Virginia Association of School Nurses:
   • This organization focuses on improving healthcare services in schools throughout the state.
   • Members benefit from a professional network, newsletters, discounted educational opportunities, and professional development resources.
4. West Virginia Emergency Nurses Association:
   • Advocating for the advancement of emergency care, the West Virginia ENA offers a network with over 50,000 members.
   • Members gain access to free online CE credits, scholarships, grants, mentoring programs, discussion boards, and national committees.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I verify a nursing license in WV?
   • The West Virginia RN Board provides a free service to check RN or advanced practice licenses in the state. Nursys offers official verification and can send this information to other state nursing boards for endorsement. RNs with an advanced license can utilize the West Virginia RN Board for official license verification.
2. How do I get a WV RN license?
   • Aspiring RNs must earn at least an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), while those interested in leadership opportunities may consider a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Graduates must apply for and pass the NCLEX-RN. Practitioners with a license from another state should check if their state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). All applicants need to apply through the West Virginia RN Board website.
3. How long does it take to get a WV RN license?
   • Students can obtain an RN license with an ADN, typically taking two years for full-time students and a longer duration for part-time students. Alternatively, students can pursue a BSN, which requires four years of full-time attendance.
4. How do I renew my WV RN license?
   • RNs need to complete 12 CE credits before renewing their license. CE credits must be earned from organizations accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Applicants must pay a $67 fee between September 1 and October 3 to avoid a lapsed license. Qualified applicants should apply through the West Virginia RN Board website and await approval.