What are the Legal Requirements for Becoming a Nurse?
To practice as a nurse, individuals must meet several legal requirements which vary by country and jurisdiction. Generally, aspiring nurses must complete an accredited nursing program, which can be a diploma, associate degree, or bachelor's degree in nursing. Following their education, they must pass a national licensing exam, such as the NCLEX-RN in the United States, to become a [registered nurse]() (RN). Additionally, nurses must apply for licensure in the state or region where they plan to practice and meet any continuing education requirements to maintain their license.