Can You Use Your NCLEX US License in Canada and Vice Versa? Here’s the Real Deal for Nurses
If you’re a nurse dreaming of an international career, you’ve probably looked at both the United States and Canada as attractive destinations. Both countries offer strong healthcare systems, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth.
But if you already passed the NCLEX in one country, can you simply transfer your license and start working in the other? Let’s break it down!
First, what is the NCLEX?
The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is a standardized exam developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). It tests whether a nursing graduate is ready to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level RN.
United States: NCLEX has long been the standard licensing exam for RNs in all states.
Canada: In 2015, most Canadian provinces (except Quebec) adopted the NCLEX-RN as the entry-to-practice exam for new RNs.
Can you use your NCLEX license from the US to work in Canada?
The short answer: Not automatically.
While both countries use the same exam, nursing licensure is still regulated separately by each country’s regulatory bodies.
What you need to do
1️. Apply to the provincial regulatory body where you want to work (e.g., College of Nurses of Ontario, British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives).
2️. Meet assessment requirements, which typically include:
Proof of education and credentials (sometimes through NNAS — National Nursing Assessment Service).
Proof of passing the NCLEX-RN.
English or French language proficiency requirements.
Evidence of good standing from your current US state board.
3️. Obtain a provincial RN license, which is required before you can legally practice.
Even if you’ve passed the NCLEX in the US, Canada treats it as proof you’ve met the exam requirement — but they still need to review your education, credentials, and practice history before granting a license.
Can you use your NCLEX license from Canada to work in the US?
The short answer: Not directly.
Even though you passed the NCLEX in Canada, you don’t automatically receive a US nursing license.
What you need to do
1️. Apply to a US state board of nursing, which will assess your application individually.
2️. Provide:
Proof of passing the NCLEX-RN.
Educational transcripts.
Credential evaluation (some states require CGFNS or CES reports for foreign-trained nurses).
Proof of English proficiency (in some states).
3️. Receive a state-specific RN license, which allows you to work in that particular state.
Remember: US nursing licenses are state-based, not national, so you’ll need to meet requirements for the specific state where you want to practice.
Important differences to keep in mind
Why nurses still benefit from the NCLEX
Even though you can’t simply "transfer" your license between countries, having passed the NCLEX already is a huge advantage. It shows that you meet a globally respected standard of practice and can speed up your application process.
Plus, it means you won’t have to retake the exam, which saves time, money, and stress!
It’s a strong foundation — but not a free pass
Passing the NCLEX-RN is a major milestone that opens doors worldwide, but it isn’t a "universal nursing passport." Whether you’re moving from the US to Canada or vice versa, you’ll need to complete regulatory steps in each country.
With the right guidance and preparation, though, your NCLEX can help you build a truly global nursing career.
Need help navigating the licensing process in the US or Canada?
A trusted licensing expert like NEAC can guide you step by step — from paperwork to exam assistance — and make your transition smooth and stress-free.