Guidelines for NCLEX

Southwest Technology Center, Practical Nursing program is approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. Graduates of this state approved program are eligible to apply to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for practical nurses. Applicants for Oklahoma licensure must meet all state and federal requirements to hold an Oklahoma license to practice nursing. In addition to completing a state approved education program, requirements include submission of an application for licensure with a criminal history records search and successfully passing the licensure examination. Applicants for practical nurse licensure must also hold a high school diploma or a graduate equivalence degree (GED) {59 O.S §567.5 & 567.6}. To be granted a license, an applicant must have the legal right to reside in the United States (United States Code Chapter 9 Section 1621). The Board has the right to deny a license to an individual with a history of criminal background, disciplinary action on another health-related license or certification or judicial declaration of mental incompetence {59 O.S §567.8}. These cases are considered on an individual basis at the time application for licensure is made, with the exception of felony charges. Any individual with a felony conviction cannot apply for licensure for at least five (5) years after completion of all sentencing terms, including probation and suspended sentences, unless a presidential or gubernatorial pardon is received. {59 O.S §567.5 & 567.6}