Do you need a license to be RN?

In most countries, including the United States and Canada, a license is required to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN). Requirements for licensure vary by jurisdiction but generally include:

1. Education: An accredited nursing program leading to an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN).

2. Clinical Experience: A certain number of supervised clinical hours in various nursing settings.

3. Passing a Licensure Exam: The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in the United States and the Canadian Registered Nurse Exam (CRNE) in Canada.

Once licensed, RNs are required to maintain their licensure by meeting ongoing education and practice requirements, typically referred to as Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) or Continuing Competency Requirements (CCR).