Yes, you can still become a nurse if you fail the NCLEX, provided you meet your state board of nursing’s requirements for retaking the exam and ultimately pass it. Failing the NCLEX does not permanently disqualify you from becoming a registered nurse, but you cannot legally work as an RN in the United States until you pass the exam and receive your license.
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing allows candidates to retake the NCLEX up to eight times per year, with a mandatory 45-day waiting period between each attempt. However, individual state boards may impose additional restrictions, especially after multiple failures.
If you fail the NCLEX:
- You will receive a Candidate Performance Report that outlines your strengths and weaknesses in key content areas. This report is intended to guide your study plan for the next attempt.
- You must reapply to your state board of nursing and register again with Pearson VUE to schedule a retake.
- After three failed attempts, many state boards require you to complete a board-approved remediation or review program before allowing further attempts.
It is important to note that while you cannot work as a registered nurse without passing the NCLEX, you may be eligible to work in a healthcare support role—such as a nursing assistant or patient care technician—while preparing to retake the exam. However, you must not represent yourself as a licensed nurse.
Many nursing graduates fail the NCLEX on their first try and go on to pass on subsequent attempts with focused review and proper preparation. Persistence, structured study, and use of the performance feedback are key to eventual success.
In summary, failing the NCLEX delays your licensure but does not end your nursing career. With determination and compliance with your state’s requirements, you can still achieve your goal of becoming a licensed registered nurse.