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General Information
Instructions:
1. Before completing the application package, read each step. This will aid you in accurately completing your application
and eliminate any delay in processing.
2. If you are applying through the Acceptance of Examination method, please visit the Continental Testing website by
clicking here.
3. All documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by an original, notarized translation that has been
transcribed by a person other than the applicant, who is fluent in both English and the language of the
document(s). The translator shall certify to the above requirements as well as to the accuracy of the translation.
4. Submit the appropriate security clearance documents in the form of a fingerprint background check.
5. Disclosure of your U.S. Social Security Number (SSN), if you have one, is mandatory, in accordance with 5 Illinois
Compiled Statutes 100/10-65 to obtain a license. If you do not have a Social Security Number, you must submit the
SSN affidavit. The social security number may be provided to the Illinois Department of Public Aid to identify persons
who are more than 30 days delinquent in complying with a child support order, or to the Illinois Department of
Revenue to identify persons who have failed to file a tax return, pay tax, penalty or interest shown in a filed return, or
to pay any final assessment or tax penalty or interest, as required by any Tax Act administered by the Illinois
Department of Revenue, or to other entities for verification of identification.
6. You have three (3) years from the date your application is received by the Department or Continental Testing
Service, Inc. to complete the application process. If the process is not completed in three (3) years, your
application will be denied and the fee forfeited.
7. All application fees are non-refundable.
Qualifications/Exemptions:
Registered Nurse License
• If you are applying under the Endorsement method, you may be eligible for a Temporary Nursing Permit that
will enable you to practice temporarily while your permanent license is pending. A completed endorsement
application with all necessary supporting documents and payment of fees is required. Photocopies of all active
nursing licenses and/or temporary licenses from other jurisdictions, and fingerprints that have been submitted
to the Department are required.
• Any Registered Nurse applicants who received education outside of the United States, a credentials evaluation
report of the applicant’s foreign nursing education from either the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing
Schools (CGFNS), Credentials Evaluation Service (CES), or the Educational Record Evaluation Service (ERES) is
required. The report must: