California · NCLEX

NCLEX Practice Tests — California

Free practice tests for the California NCLEX exam, written from the California Board of Nursing handbook and federal standards.

Oversight: California Board of Nursing

About the California NCLEX exam

California Board of Nursing. Like every state, California adopts the federal standards as a baseline and adds state-specific requirements, fees, and procedures.

  • NCLEX + state licensing fee: approximately $200 NCLEX fee + $150 CA state fee.
  • State nursing board: California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).
  • California is NOT an NLC member state; nurses relocating from NLC states must apply separately for a California licence. California also issues a separate LVN licence through the BVNPT.

To get started, read the official California handbook (linked above), practice with the tests on this page until you consistently score above 70%, and then schedule your exam with the California Board of Nursing.

What's in the California exam: Practice questions modeled on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), organized by client need category as defined by the NCSBN test plan.

Practice test FAQs

How do I get a NCLEX license in California?

In general you must meet the eligibility requirements, complete any required education or training, and pass the required knowledge test (and, where applicable, a skills test) administered through the California Board of Nursing. The exact steps, fees, and documents are set by California and are covered in the guide above.

Is the NCLEX exam different in California?

The core knowledge tested is similar across states, but California sets its own specific rules, procedures, passing requirements, and any state-law content. That is why it is important to study materials specific to California, which our NCLEX practice tests are written to reflect.

Are these California practice tests free?

Yes. All of our California NCLEX practice questions are completely free, with no sign-up or payment required, and every question includes a full explanation. You can start practicing immediately on desktop or mobile.

How should I prepare for the NCLEX exam in California?

Study the official NCLEX materials from the California Board of Nursing, focus on the most heavily tested topics, and take practice tests until you consistently score above the passing threshold. You can start with the California NCLEX practice tests for this state.

Where can I learn more about the NCLEX exam format and scoring?

Our NCLEX exam guide explains the test format, scoring, what is covered, and study strategies that apply in every state, including California.