Online Nursing Programs in Nebraska

Becoming a Nurse in Nebraska

Nursing schools in Nebraska are plentiful, and each licensing option has multiple nursing program options in Nebraska. There are several types of nurses, and each type has a specific set of criteria, such as passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). 

The Nebraska Board of Nursing is housed under the state's Department of Health and Human Services, and aspiring nurses can receive credentials to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Nebraska also has specific certification requirements for certified nursing aides (CNAs).

This article explains how to obtain a Nebraska nursing license in the field that's right for you.

How To Get CNA Certification in Nebraska

To become a nurse aide in Nebraska, students must complete at least 75 hours of training in an approved Nebraska nurse aide training program. Alternatively, applicants may choose to complete a 21-hour basic resident care course for intermediate care facilities for residents who are developmentally disabled. Nebraska also requires 1 hour of Nebraska-specific abuse/neglect/misappropriation training.

Aspiring CNAs must pass the State of Nebraska Written/Oral Exam and the Clinical/Skills Competency Exam. There is no application fee. If you are already licensed in another state, you may be able to obtain an Interstate Endorsement and transfer your license, or you can become licensed in Nebraska through employer verification if your employer is out of state. For more information on courses, textbooks, and regulations, visit Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services website. They list all requirements, provide necessary forms, and offer mental health resources.

CNA Certification Renewal

Renewal for nursing aides occurs every two years and students may complete the renewal process online. To remain active, a CNA's last paid job in the previous two years must be a nurse aide. If this requirement is not met, the Nebraska CNA registration will lapse. Another scenario of a CNA becoming ineligible is if there are findings of conviction, abuse, neglect, or misappropriation.

How To Get an LPN License in Nebraska

A Nebraska LPN license requires the completion of a nursing program, which lasts between nine months and one year. Several programs are available throughout the state. Applicants must also pass the NCLEX - Practical Nurse (PN) exam prior to becoming licensed. Individuals must send the results directly to the Nebraska Board of Nursing. 

Additionally, applicants are required to complete a fingerprint and background screening. A fingerprint card must be returned along with a processing fee of $45.25. The LPN application for a Nebraska nursing license costs $123. However, this fee drops to $30.75 for applicants who apply between May and October during an odd-numbered year. An LPN license is also eligible for a Nebraska Nursing License Endorsement, which is meant for RNs who are already licensed in another state and looking to transfer.

How To Get an RN License in Nebraska

In order to qualify for a Nebraska RN license, applicants must complete two to four years of nursing education at a college or university, such as an online RN program in Nebraska. Aspiring RNs must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination - Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) exam before becoming licensed. Exam results should be sent directly to the board from the testing organization as part of the application for a Nebraska nursing license.

All Nebraska RN license hopefuls must also undergo background and fingerprint checks. A fingerprint card must be returned along with a processing fee of $45.25. The RN application for a Nebraska nursing license costs $123. However, this fee drops to $30.75 for applicants who apply between May and October during an even-numbered year. Transcripts must also be sent from the graduate's nursing program.

RN License Renewal

In order to get existing licenses renewed, RNs must meet a continued competency requirement. A common example includes practicing nursing for a minimum of 500 hours in the last five years and completing 20 contact hours of approved continuing education.

How To Get an APRN License in Nebraska

RNs who receive a master's in nursing or doctoral degree may apply for a Nebraska APRN license. Successful APRNs must also receive national board certification in order to qualify. There are four specialty areas in which an APRN may become certified to practice: 

In addition to the RN application and fee, APRNs must submit another application, with a $68 fee. A fingerprint and background check is also required, which entails another fee of $45.25.

APRN License Renewal

Nebraska APRN licenses expire on October 31 of even-numbered years. Licensees must maintain their current national certifications. Each specialty may also have additional required hours of practice, including those who are licensed as either a CNS, CNM, or NP. The renewal process includes submitting a renewal notice, attesting to meeting the continued competency requirements, and paying the biennial renewal fee.