NP Advanced Practice

Texas Nurse Practitioner License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Texas

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$100

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

restricted

Official source: licensing in Texas is administered by the Texas Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Texas.

Apply on Official Site

Restricted Practice

Restricted practice authority. The Texas Board of Nursing says NP prescribing requires physician delegation under an agreement or facility protocol.

Prescriptive Authority: NPs prescribe only under physician delegation, documented in a prescriptive authority agreement or facility-based protocol.

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Nurse Practitioner program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

ANCC, AANPCB, PNCB, NCC, or AACN

Required

Yes

American Nurses Credentialing Center, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, National Certification Corporation, or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses

3 Background Check

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and state background check required

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$100
Total	$100

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$70

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

2 jurisprudence/ethics every 3rd renewal; 400 practice hours required

Prerequisites

To become a Nurse Practitioner in Texas, you must first hold an active RN license. Texas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Texas RN Requirements

Texas NP License FAQs

How much does an NP license cost in Texas?

Expect about $100 in total initial NP license costs in Texas, including a $100 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Texas Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do NPs need to renew in Texas?

Texas NPs must complete 20 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $54.

How long does it take to get an NP license in Texas?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues NP licenses in Texas?

The Texas Board of Nursing handles NP license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 512-305-6843.