How long does it take to become a travel nurse?
Becoming a travel nurse involves several steps:
- Education: Obtain an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution. This typically takes 2-4 years.
- RN Licensure: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and obtain a nursing license from your home state. This process usually requires at least one year.
- Experience: Gain a minimum of two years of bedside nursing experience before applying for travel nursing contracts.
- Certifications: Obtain essential certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).
- Apply to Travel Nursing Agencies: Explore travel nurse positions and connect with agencies.
- Assignment Placement and Duration: The timeline varies based on assignment availability and preferences.
In total, it may take 6-8 years to become a travel nurse, considering education and experience. 😊