Become a Nurse in Texas: Requirements, Licensing, & Employment Outlook

Texas, the second most populous state in the country, is currently witnessing a sustained growth in population, leading to an escalating demand for healthcare services.
According to Becker’s Hospital Review, Texas proudly boasts more hospitals than any other state, offering a plethora of opportunities for nurses across various stages of their careers.
This comprehensive guide seeks to illuminate the path to becoming a nurse in Texas, providing insights into the requirements and expectations of nursing programs in Texas.

Degree Required

Prospective nurses in Texas have the option to pursue either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These degrees are foundational for a rewarding career in nursing.

License Required

To practice as a nurse in Texas, it is imperative to obtain a Registered Nursing License. This is part of the Texas nursing licensure process.

Fees

The cost associated with obtaining a license ranges from $100 to $150, with a subsequent renewal fee of $68.

Job Outlook

The employment outlook for nurses in Texas indicates a substantial growth of 16.8% from 2018 to 2028, highlighting the nursing job outlook in Texas for 2024 and beyond.

How to Become a Nurse in Texas

Embarking on the journey towards becoming a licensed nurse in Texas revolves around education. Attaining either an ADN or a BSN from an accredited nursing school serves as the foundational step for a rewarding career in nursing. The licensure process includes passing exams, undergoing background checks, and fulfilling continuing education for nurses in Texas.

Steps to Obtain RN License in Texas

1. Apply to an ADN or a BSN Degree Program: Admission requirements for ADN and BSN programs typically include a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0, particularly in science and math courses. Standardized test scores, an essay, letters of recommendation, an interview, and a background check are commonly required.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam to Receive RN Licensure: Upon graduation, aspiring nurses must apply to the Texas Board of Nursing for authorization to take the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN).
3. Apply for Jobs at Local Hospitals: Researching hospitals and submitting applications through online portals is a standard process. Applicants are typically required to provide a resume, a cover letter, license information, and references.
4. Advance Your Career With a Graduate Degree or Certification: As experience is gained, nurses can enhance their career prospects by pursuing advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice.
5. Maintain and Renew Licensure and Certifications: Texas nurses are required to renew their licenses every two years, involving the completion of 20 continuing nursing education (CNE) hours.

The Complete Guide to How to Become a Registered Nurse

The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) is dedicated to ensuring the competence of licensed nurses in Texas. The board handles licensing, approves nurse education programs and nursing schools, and enforces rules, regulations, and standards of practice.

How to Get Your Nursing License in Texas

New nurses in Texas must pass an examination for licensure. Those with an active license from another state can apply for endorsement.

Regardless of the licensure method, nurses seeking employment in Texas must pass the BON nursing jurisprudence examination before taking the NCLEX-RN exam. Stringent eligibility requirements include fingerprint submission and background checks.

Top Nursing Programs in Texas

Nurses in Texas must renew their licenses every two years. The expiration date coincides with the nurse’s birth month, and the renewal process must be completed online through the Texas Nurse Portal within two months of the expiration date. You can also view the best nurse practitioner programs in Texas.

To be eligible for renewal, the license must be active and in good standing. Various factors, such as criminal offenses, defaulting on student loans, or failure to meet continuing education requirements, can impact eligibility. Nurses are required to complete a minimum of 20 Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) hours before applying for renewal, with specific hours dedicated to subjects like nursing jurisprudence and nursing ethics.

The renewal fee for a nursing license is $68 as of June 2021. Additional fees apply if the license is inactive or if the renewal is done after delinquent status.

Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in Texas

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage for nurses in Texas is $76,800. Texas holds the second position in overall registered nurse (RN) employment, following California. Job opportunities for nurses in the state are anticipated to grow by 16.8% by 2028. The highest-paying metropolitan areas for nurses in Texas, along with their mean annual salaries, are as follows:

Top-Paying Metropolitan Areas for RNs

Metropolitan Area	Mean Annual Salary
Houston — The Woodlands — Sugar Land	$84,960
Killeen — Temple	$77,000
Dallas — Fort Worth-Arlington	$77,990
Victoria	$75,730
San Antonio — New Braunfels	$75,110

Source: BLS

Best Hospitals to Work as a Nurse in Texas

U.S. News & World Report annually ranks hospitals based on the quality of general and specialty healthcare. The top five hospitals in Texas for nurses, offering excellent work environments and growth opportunities, include:

Houston Methodist Hospital

Houston Methodist Hospital stands out as one of the nation’s premier healthcare institutions, particularly excelling in patient safety. It holds national rankings in more than 11 specialties, showcasing expertise in areas such as cancer care and cardiology. Recognizing its commitment to exceptional nursing care, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) has bestowed Magnet accreditation upon the facility, underscoring its dedication to maintaining high-quality standards.

UT Southwestern Medical Center

UT Southwestern Medical Center has earned national recognition across 17 specialty areas, including cardiology and neurology. With a substantial nursing staff comprising over 3,400 professionals, the medical center has achieved ANCC Magnet status. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the institution’s outstanding care delivery and provides testament to the exceptional work environment fostered within its walls.

Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center

Renowned for its excellence in cancer and cardiac care, Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center holds a prominent position among the nation’s top hospitals. It has earned ANCC Magnet designation, affirming the hospital’s commitment to delivering top-notch nursing care. Nurses at Baylor St. Luke’s are actively encouraged to advance their careers, with opportunities for leadership roles, while recent graduates can explore the nurse residency program.

Baylor University Medical Center

Situated in Dallas and nationally recognized for its achievements in gastroenterology and gynecology, Baylor University Medical Center holds ANCC Magnet status. Nurses at this esteemed institution report high levels of job satisfaction and autonomy in their professional practice, reflecting the hospital’s dedication to creating a supportive and empowering work environment.

Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center

Functioning as the teaching hospital for the University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center is a level 1 trauma center distinguished for excellence in various practice areas. The institution proudly bears the ANCC Magnet designation, signifying its commitment to maintaining high nursing care standards. Nurses at Memorial Hermann receive robust support and numerous opportunities for professional growth and development, contributing to a thriving and dynamic work environment. These hospitals are recognized for their patient safety, specialties, and commitment to nursing care, with several holding Magnet accreditation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Resources for Nurses in Texas

Several resources are available to nurses in Texas, including:

Texas Nurses Association

The Texas Nurses Association (TNA) holds the distinction of being the largest and oldest nursing association in the state. Functioning as a strong advocate for the progress of the nursing profession, TNA operates as part of the American Nurses Association. While not a union or regulatory agency, TNA serves as a dedicated voice for nurses in Texas. Membership is open to licensed Registered Nurses (RNs), providing a range of benefits such as opportunities to engage in committees, access to Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) courses, discounts, and participation in a job board.

Texas Board of Nursing CNE Course Catalog

The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) presents a comprehensive CNE Course Catalog, featuring a variety of workshops all approved for CNE credit toward license renewal. Many of these workshops are self-paced, and some are conducted through online webinars. Additionally, the BON offers a preparatory course designed for the mandatory nursing jurisprudence exam. It’s essential to note that while this course does not confer CNE credits, it serves as a valuable resource for exam preparation and does not contribute to license renewal.

Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses

The Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses extends vital support to nurses confronting mental health or substance misuse challenges. This program ensures that nurses receive the assistance they need to continue practicing safely. Through early identification, the program provides support, accountability, and advocacy. A structured treatment plan is developed, incorporating peer support from a dedicated volunteer advocate.

Texas Nurse Practitioners

Dedicated to the advancement, support, and promotion of Nurse Practitioner (NP) roles and high-quality healthcare across the state, the Texas Nurse Practitioners (TNP) organization welcomes NPs as members. TNP membership offers access to a range of benefits, including opportunities for advocacy involvement, resources for continuing education, career services, practice resources, discounts, and networking opportunities. Membership in TNP provides NPs with a platform to engage actively in the advancement of their profession and the enhancement of healthcare standards in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Nurse in Texas

1. How long does it take to become an RN in Texas? It typically takes 2-4 years to become a licensed nurse in Texas, with ADN and BSN programs requiring a minimum of two and four years, respectively.
2. Is Texas a good place for nurses? Texas provides ample opportunities for nurses in diverse settings, including renowned hospitals. It ranks second in overall nurse employment and boasts a low cost of living.
3. In what states can a Texas nurse work? Texas is part of the eNLC, allowing licensed RNs to work in other eNLC states which include: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Legislation is pending in additional states.
4. Can you get a temporary RN license in Texas? Yes, licensed nurses moving to Texas can obtain a 120-day temporary license. LVNs/LPNs and RNs who were licensed but haven’t practiced in the last four years may also get a temporary six-month permit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, becoming a nurse in Texas presents a wealth of opportunities in a rapidly growing healthcare environment. With the state’s increasing population and demand for healthcare services, now is an excellent time to pursue a nursing career. Aspiring nurses can choose between an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), both of which are essential for obtaining a Registered Nursing License in Texas.

The Texas nursing licensure process includes passing the NCLEX-RN exam and fulfilling various educational requirements. As part of their professional journey, nurses must also complete continuing education to maintain their licenses, ensuring they stay updated on the latest practices and standards. The employment outlook for nurses in Texas is robust, with a projected growth rate of 16.8% from 2018 to 2028, signaling strong job security and potential for advancement.

Texas is home to some of the best nursing programs and hospitals in the nation, including top institutions like Houston Methodist Hospital and UT Southwestern Medical Center, which provide excellent work environments for nurses. Additionally, resources like the Texas Nurses Association and the Texas Board of Nursing offer valuable support and continuing education opportunities.

As you explore pathways in nursing, consider leveraging online nursing papers and custom nursing papers to enhance your understanding of the field. Whether you need assistance with nursing assignments or seek the best nursing papers for research, numerous resources are available to support your educational goals. With a strong commitment to nursing research and a supportive professional community, Texas stands out as a prime location for aspiring nurses to build fulfilling careers in healthcare.