Yes, you should generally put your nursing license number on your resume, especially in the contact information or a dedicated “Licenses & Certifications” section. It immediately verifies your qualifications and streamlines the hiring process for employers.
Navigating the early stages of your nursing career can feel like a maze, especially when it comes to crafting that all-important resume. One question that often pops up is whether to include your nursing license number. It’s a detail that can seem small, but it’s actually quite significant for demonstrating your credentials. Many students and recent graduates wonder if this is a mandatory step or just an optional flourish. Don’t worry, we’ll break down exactly why and how to include it, making your resume shine and giving employers the confidence they need to call you for an interview.
Why Including Your Nursing License Number Matters
As a career strategist, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is for nurses to present their qualifications clearly and concisely. Your nursing license is your ticket to practice, and employers need to know it’s valid and current. Including your license number on your resume isn’t just about adding a string of digits; it’s about:
- Immediate Verification: Recruiters and hiring managers can quickly confirm your eligibility to work as a nurse. This saves them time and effort.
- Demonstrating Credibility: It shows you are a licensed and qualified professional, not just someone with nursing education.
- Standing Out from the Competition: In a competitive job market, having this information readily available can make your application more attractive.
- Meeting Employer Requirements: Many healthcare facilities specifically require applicants to have a valid nursing license. Highlighting it upfront shows you meet this fundamental requirement.
Think of it as a badge of honor. It signifies that you’ve met the rigorous standards set by your state’s board of nursing and are ready to contribute to patient care. For students and recent graduates, this is especially important as you build your professional profile.
Where to Place Your Nursing License Number
The placement of your nursing license number is key to its effectiveness. You want it to be easily found without cluttering your resume. Here are the most common and recommended spots:
1. Contact Information Section
This is often the most straightforward and efficient place. It’s usually at the top of your resume, right after your name and contact details. This ensures it’s one of the first things a recruiter sees.
Example:
Jane Doe, RN (123) 456-7890 | jane.doe@email.com | LinkedIn Profile URL RN License Number: 01234567 (State Name)
Make sure to specify the state your license is issued in, as this is crucial for employers who may be hiring for positions in specific states or have multi-state licensing requirements.
2. Dedicated “Licenses & Certifications” Section
If you have multiple licenses, certifications, or specialized training, creating a dedicated section can be very effective. This keeps your resume organized and highlights your professional qualifications prominently.
Example:
Licenses & Certifications Registered Nurse (RN) License, State of California, License Number: 01234567 (Active) Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification, American Heart Association (Expires: MM/YYYY) Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certification, American Heart Association (Expires: MM/YYYY)
Adding the status (e.g., “Active”) and expiration date for certifications can also be beneficial.
3. Summary or Objective Statement (Optional)
While less common, you could briefly mention your licensure in your resume summary or objective if it’s particularly relevant to the job you’re applying for. However, the previous two locations are generally preferred for directness.
Example within a summary:
Highly motivated and compassionate Registered Nurse with a valid California RN license (01234567) and over two years of experience in pediatric care. Seeking to leverage strong clinical skills and dedication to patient well-being at [Hospital Name].
What Information to Include
When listing your license, be precise. You’ll want to include:
- Your License Type: RN, LPN, LVN, etc.
- Your License Number: The unique identifier assigned to you.
- The Issuing State: Crucial for verifying your credentials.
- Status (Optional but Recommended): “Active,” “Inactive,” or “Expired.” For job applications, you’ll always want this to be “Active.”
- Expiration Date (Optional): Some prefer to include this, especially for certifications.
For example, instead of just “License: 123456,” use “RN License, State of Texas, License Number: 123456 (Active).”
When NOT to Put Your Nursing License Number on Your Resume
While generally recommended, there are a few scenarios where you might reconsider or omit your license number:
- Applying for Non-Clinical Roles: If you’re applying for a role that doesn’t require you to be a practicing nurse (e.g., healthcare administration, medical writing, teaching without direct patient care), your license number might be less relevant and could even take up valuable space.
- When the Application Process Explicitly Says Not To: Always read application instructions carefully. Some systems or specific job postings might have unique requirements.
- If Your License is Not Yet Active or is Expired: If your license is pending or has expired, it’s better not to list it as active. You can mention that you are “awaiting licensure” or that your license is “expired” if you choose to include it at all, but it’s often best to omit it until it’s active.
- Applying for Internships or Volunteer Positions Where Licensure Isn’t Required: For very entry-level positions or roles where you are still a student nurse, your license number might not be necessary. Focus on your education and any permits you might have.
However, for the vast majority of nursing positions, including your active license number is a strong positive.
Verifying Your License
It’s important to know that employers will verify your license. They typically do this through the official state board of nursing website. For example, the American Nurses Association (ANA) provides resources that can help you find your state’s board of nursing.
Each state has its own online portal where you can check the status of a nurse’s license. This is a standard part of the background check process in healthcare. Knowing this, you can be confident that including your correct, active license number is a straightforward way to pass this initial verification step.
Impact on Different Career Stages
Let’s consider how this advice applies to different points in your nursing career:
For Students and Recent Graduates
As you enter the job market, your resume is your primary tool for showcasing your potential. Including your nursing license number (if you have it) immediately tells employers you are a qualified professional ready to begin your career. If you are still a student nurse and do not yet have your RN license, you can mention your status and any permits you hold.
Example for a student:
Licenses & Certifications Student Nurse Permit, State of Florida, Permit Number: S1234567 (Active) Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification, American Heart Association (Expires: MM/YYYY)
For Mid-Career Professionals
If you’re an experienced nurse, your license number is a given, but its placement still matters. Ensure it’s easily accessible. You might also want to highlight any specializations or advanced certifications alongside your primary nursing license.
For Career Changers
If you’re transitioning from another field into nursing, your nursing license number is paramount. It signals your commitment and qualification for the new career path. If you’re transitioning out of nursing, you might omit it unless the role specifically requires or benefits from your nursing background.
Pros and Cons of Including Your License Number
To help you make a final decision, let’s look at the advantages and potential drawbacks:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Immediate Credibility: Confirms your professional status. | Potential for Misinformation: If incorrect or expired, it can hurt your application. |
| Streamlined Hiring: Employers can verify quickly. | Irrelevant for Non-Clinical Roles: May not be necessary for certain job types. |
| Meets Requirements: Shows you fulfill a key job criterion. | Space Constraint: Could take up valuable resume real estate if not placed strategically. |
| Professionalism: Demonstrates attention to detail. | Privacy Concerns (Minor): Some may feel hesitant to share personal identifiers, though license numbers are public record. |
As you can see, the pros significantly outweigh the cons for most nursing roles. The key is accuracy and strategic placement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your license number inclusion is effective, steer clear of these common errors:
- Incorrect Number: Double-check and triple-check the digits. A typo can lead to verification issues.
- Missing State: Always specify the state where your license is valid.
- Outdated Information: If your license has expired or been suspended, do not list it as active.
- Poor Placement: Hiding it in a less visible section can defeat its purpose.
- Including Expired Certifications Without Context: If a certification has expired, and it’s not relevant to the job, consider removing it or clearly marking it as expired if it was once significant.
Always refer to resources like the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) for general information on nursing licensure.
When Your License is Pending
If you’ve completed your nursing program and passed your NCLEX but are waiting for your official license number, you can state that you are “awaiting licensure” or “eligible for RN licensure.”
Example:
Licenses & Certifications Eligible for RN Licensure, State of Illinois (NCLEX Passed) Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification, American Heart Association (Expires: MM/YYYY)
Once you receive your license number, update your resume immediately. This shows initiative and that you are proactive in meeting requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q1: Do I need to put my nursing license number on my resume for every job application?
- For most nursing positions, yes. It’s a quick way to verify your qualifications. For non-clinical roles or specific exceptions, it might not be necessary.
- Q2: What if I have licenses in multiple states?
- List the license that is most relevant to the job you are applying for. If the job requires a specific state license, prioritize that one. You can also create a section listing all active, relevant licenses.
- Q3: Should I include my license expiration date?
- It’s not strictly required for your nursing license if it’s active and current, but it can be helpful for certifications. For your main nursing license, stating “Active” is usually sufficient. Employers will verify its current status.
- Q4: Is my nursing license number considered private information?
- No, nursing license numbers are generally considered public information and are accessible through state board of nursing websites. Sharing it on your resume is standard practice.
- Q5: What if my license is currently inactive?
- If your license is inactive and you are applying for a role that requires an active license, it’s best not to list it as active. You may need to reactivate it or explain your situation during the application process.
- Q6: Can I put my license number in my LinkedIn profile?
- Yes, you can add your license information to the “Licenses & Certifications” section of your LinkedIn profile. This can further enhance your professional credibility online.
- Q7: What if I’m a new graduate and haven’t received my official license number yet?
- You can state that you are “Eligible for RN Licensure” or “Awaiting RN License” and mention that you have passed the NCLEX exam. Update your resume as soon as you receive your official number.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to include your nursing license number on your resume is a common but important question for nursing professionals. As we’ve explored, for the vast majority of roles in the healthcare field, including your active nursing license number is not only recommended but often essential. It serves as a clear, immediate indicator of your qualifications, boosts your credibility, and streamlines the hiring process for potential employers. By placing it strategically in your contact information or a dedicated “Licenses & Certifications” section, you ensure it’s easily visible and impactful.
Remember to always be accurate, specify the issuing state, and keep your information up-to-date. For students and recent graduates, this detail is particularly vital for making a strong first impression. By following these guidelines, you can confidently present your qualifications, avoid common pitfalls, and take a significant step toward landing your desired nursing position. Your resume is your professional story, and showcasing your licensure is a critical chapter.