Nurses Registration Process – British Columbia

The British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) regulates LPN, RN, RPN (Psychiatric Nurse), and NP registration in British Columbia. If you are an internationally educated nurse (IEN), your pathway depends on where you were educated/first registered (BCCNM has separate instructions for the U.S., Australia/New Zealand/UK, and all other countries).

Visit BCCNM

Step 1: Check your nursing category and follow the correct “IEN” pathway

BCCNM explains that it regulates four nursing professions and will often assess IENs for both RN and LPN at the same time, so you may be able to work as an LPN while completing RN requirements (without reapplying).

Step 2: Credential + language review (Inspire Global Assessments)

For most IENs applying after Jan 31, 2023, Inspire Global Assessments assesses English language proficiency for BCCNM applications.

BCCNM’s accepted English tests and minimum scores include (high level):

  • CELBAN (Reading 8 / Listening 9 / Writing 7 / Speaking 8)

  • IELTS Academic (Overall 7.0; Reading 6.5 / Listening 7.0 / Writing 6.5 / Speaking 7.0)

  • OET (Reading C+ / Listening B / Writing C+ / Speaking B)

Check the BCCNM “English proficiency”.

Step 3: Apply to BCCNM (you can apply while assessments are in progress)

BCCNM’s IEN page is the official application hub and links to: ID requirements, criminal record check, practice hours, provisional registration, fees, etc. 

Check the BCCNM IEN application hub.

Step 4: If BCCNM identifies gaps: competence assessment / bridging

BCCNM may require additional steps if there are gaps between your education/practice and BC entry-to-practice requirements. The exact requirement depends on your file review and country pathway. Click Here

Step 5: Write the correct exam for your nursing category

Your exam depends on the licence type you are applying for:

  • For LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse): REx-PN (not CPNRE)
    BCCNM’s LPN exam page confirms the exam is REx-PN and provides official prep resources and retake rules.
  • For RPN (Registered Psychiatric Nurse): RPNCE
    BCCNM confirms RPN applicants must pass the RPNCE and notes exam windows (January/May/October).
  • For RN (Registered Nurse): NCLEX-RN
    BCCNM’s IEN hub links directly to the RN exam (NCLEX) section.

Step 6: Maintain registration (annual requirements)

After you’re licensed, you must meet BCCNM’s ongoing requirements (e.g., renewal, practice hours/quality assurance expectations depending on class). Start from the IEN hub and use the “How to renew / Quality Assurance / Practice hours” links.