What exactly is the NCLEX? The acronym NCLEX stands for National Council Licensure Examination and refers to one of the two standardized tests that nurses must pass in order to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN). Nursing candidates must obtain an accredited nursing degree and pass either the NCLEX-RN® (for RNs) or the NCLEX-PN® (for LPNs) to become licensed. This step is critical because it allows states to independently verify your nursing knowledge and assess your competence to practice safely as a nurse. Consider this: would you want to be treated by a nurse who hasn't demonstrated that they've reached these standards? Most likely not! Who is required to take the NCLEX? The short answer is that anyone who wishes to work as a nurse must take and pass the NCLEX exam. As previously said, the NCLEX exam is divided into two parts based on education level. Those with a Practical Nursing diploma who want to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Those with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree who want to become a registered nurse (RN) must pass the NCLEX-RN.