Nursing Student looking for out of state jobs

Hi Everyone!

My name is Jackie and I am finishing up my last two semesters in nursing school in South Florida. Knowing how fast the program has gone so far, I wanted to start researching graduate schools, but mostly hospitals in the San Francisco, CA area. I was just wondering how the process is to be a new grad and a new resident in another state regarding getting a first time RN job. Is is much harder since I would be coming from a different state? And also, do I need to take the NCLEX in Florida and then in California again if I move?

Thank you for your help!

-Jackie
I guess choosing which state to sit for boards would depend on how long you think your job search may take and how long you plan to study prior to taking NCLEX. I am not sure if the CA will allow you to start working pending boards. Some states no longer allow new grads to do this. If you think it will be say, 4-6 months, before you move, I would plan to take the NCLEX in FL. You will get the results in 2-3 days. At that point, if I remember correctly, then you can choose which state to apply for a license. If you end up getting a FL license, to transfer it to CA probably just requires documentation and paperwork (you won't have to sit for the NCLEX again). Some states take a while to issue your license. When I transferred my license from IL to GA, it took 8 weeks!! So make sure that you find out your potential employer's requirements for you to start work as a new grad. Congrats on finishing up with your program! Good luck!

Quote from jackieh817Hi Everyone!My name is Jackie and I am finishing up my last two semesters in nursing school in South Florida. Knowing how fast the program has gone so far, I wanted to start researching graduate schools, but mostly hospitals in the San Francisco, CA area. I was just wondering how the process is to be a new grad and a new resident in another state regarding getting a first time RN job. Is is much harder since I would be coming from a different state? And also, do I need to take the NCLEX in Florida and then in California again if I move?Thank you for your help!-Jackie

Stay in Florida and get a job first and gain experience then apply in other in other states. The competition is fierce every where.